Ruth Haines
Algiers airport has ATMs, banks, and currency exchange bureaus where travellers can withdraw Algerian dinar or exchange Euro. However, some travellers have reported that the exchange rates at the airport are unfavourable, and that it is better to exchange small amounts of cash at the airport and then change larger amounts at banks or other trusted places. It is also possible to exchange money on the black market, but this comes with a high risk of counterfeit currency.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is it possible to exchange Dinar to Euro at the Algiers airport? | Yes, it is possible to exchange Dinar to Euro at the Algiers airport. However, some sources suggest exchanging cash with people who approach you at the airport or using a mobile app like Fairswap, which allows you to exchange cash currency by meeting at a pre-agreed location. |
| Exchange rate | 1 Euro = 150 Dinar (according to a source on TripAdvisor) |
| Risks | There is a risk of fake currency when exchanging money at the airport. It is recommended to find a quiet place away from CCTV and police to exchange money. |
| Alternative options | It is recommended to buy Algerian Dinars before your trip to get a better exchange rate. You can also use a prepaid travel card, debit or credit card, or a multi-currency card that supports Algerian Dinar balances. |
| Other considerations | Having some Algerian Dinar banknotes is useful for small purchases, tipping, and emergencies. Euros are widely accepted in Algiers, but you may need to exchange them for Dinars at some establishments. |
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What You'll Learn
Black market money exchange
In Algeria, many people prefer to use the black market to exchange dinars with other currencies, rather than going through the banking system. This is because the dinar is not a convertible currency for private individuals, forcing them to turn to the black market to buy foreign currencies.
In Algiers, there are several ways to exchange money on the black market. One way is to exchange cash with people who approach you at the airport. However, this method is risky, and you should be aware of the possibility of counterfeit money. It is recommended to find a quiet place to exchange money, away from CCTV and police. Another option is to exchange money with a taxi driver, which may be slightly safer. The best option is to exchange money with local goldsmiths, who will always have cash on hand and be happy to accept foreign currency.
If you are unable to find a local contact to help you exchange money on the black market, there are other ways to obtain Algerian dinar. You can use your debit or credit card to spend money in Algeria, or ask your bank if they offer a multi-currency card that supports Algerian dinar balances. Online travel card providers like Wise Account and Revolut also offer low-cost spending in multiple currencies. Prepaid travel cards are generally the best way to pay in Algeria, as they incur lower fees on currency exchange than credit or debit cards.
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ATM withdrawals
Algiers Houari Boumediene Airport (ALG) has ATMs available for passengers to use. These are located in the public halls of Terminals 1 and 2. However, some travellers advise against withdrawing money from the airport ATM, suggesting that exchanging cash with people who approach you on arrival is a better option.
If you do choose to use an ATM at Algiers airport, be aware that you may encounter high fees and unfavourable exchange rates. It is recommended that you explore other options for accessing Algerian dinar before your trip, such as prepaid travel cards or online travel card providers like Wise Account and Revolut. These options often offer lower fees and more competitive exchange rates than traditional bank debit or credit cards.
If you decide to use a prepaid travel card, be sure to research whether it is widely accepted in Algeria and whether it supports Algerian dinar balances. It is also worth noting that mobile payment services like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Alipay are becoming more popular in Algeria, but you should check their availability before relying on them.
For those who prefer to use their debit or credit card, it is advisable to contact your bank beforehand to inquire about any associated fees and to ensure that your card will be functional in Algeria. Additionally, some banks may offer specific multi-currency cards that support Algerian dinar balances, which could be worth considering.
In summary, while ATMs are available at Algiers airport, there are alternative options for accessing Algerian dinar that may offer better value and convenience. It is always a good idea to research and plan how you will access local currency before travelling to a new country.
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Currency exchange in banks
When exchanging currency, it is important to be aware of the potential risks of exchanging large sums of money, especially in a foreign country. Some sources suggest that it is not advisable to withdraw money from ATMs at the airport, as there may be a risk of receiving fake notes. It is also not recommended to exchange money with strangers, even if they offer a better rate, as there is a risk of receiving counterfeit currency.
In Algeria, it is recommended to use primarily cash, as credit and debit cards may not be widely accepted. Some travellers have reported exchanging money with a taxi driver, but this may not be a safe option, especially if you are unfamiliar with the local currency.
To get the best exchange rates, it is worth exploring online travel card options, such as the Wise Account and Revolut, which offer low-cost spending in multiple currencies. Prepaid travel cards can also be a good option, as they often incur lower fees on currency exchange than credit or debit cards and provide added security and convenience.
Additionally, when exchanging a large sum of money, it may be beneficial to compare the exchange rates and fees offered by different banks and financial institutions to ensure you get the most competitive rate.
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Mobile payment services
If you're looking for the best fees and exchange rates, it's worth exploring online travel card leaders like the Wise Account and Revolut, which offer low-cost spending in multiple currencies globally. Check if these services are available in your country and in Algeria.
Prepaid travel cards are also a great option when travelling. They provide security and convenience, often with lower fees on Algerian dinar currency exchange than credit or debit cards. Many prepaid travel cards let you hold multi-currency balances, allowing you to avoid DCCs and other hidden fees.
International money transfers to an Algerian dinar bank account can be costly due to high fees and exchange rates. However, there are many trustworthy alternative providers offering competitive exchange rates. The cheapest provider for sending money abroad will depend on factors such as the amount, payment method, and your recipient's receiving method.
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Using euros instead of exchanging
Algiers International Airport will have the most options for currency exchange. However, some travellers have reported that they received a poor exchange rate at the airport. It is also worth noting that the Algerian dinar is a closed currency, meaning that it cannot be purchased outside of Algeria and that importing and exporting dinars is illegal. As a result, it is recommended that you spend all of your dinars before leaving the country.
Given these factors, you may prefer to use euros during your trip to Algeria instead of exchanging them for dinars. Euros are widely accepted in Algeria, and you will likely be approached by locals offering to exchange euros for dinars. However, it is not recommended to exchange money with strangers, even if they offer a better rate. It is also worth noting that some sources suggest that exchanging money on the street is risky.
If you do choose to use euros instead of exchanging them for dinars, it is important to keep a few things in mind. Firstly, Algeria is largely a cash-based society, so it is recommended to use cash instead of traveller's cheques or credit cards. Additionally, very few banks in Algeria accept Western cards, so you may have trouble using your debit or credit card during your trip. In the event of an emergency, your guide should be able to help you locate a compatible bank or Western Union.
It is also important to declare any cash amounts exceeding the equivalent of €1,000 upon arrival or departure. The total value of imported or exported currency cannot exceed €7,500.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can exchange dinar to euro at the Algiers airport. However, it is recommended to have euros beforehand, as the exchange rate at the airport is unfavourable.
The exchange rate of dinar to euro fluctuates over time. As of April 2025, 1 euro is equal to 150 dinar.
You can exchange currency at a bank or exchange bureau at the airport.
Yes, there are ATMs at the Algiers airport that accept UK cards.
The best way to get dinar in Algeria depends on your needs and preferences. You can use your debit or credit card, or a multi-currency card that supports dinar balances. Online travel card providers like Wise Account and Revolut offer low-cost spending in multiple currencies.
