Africa
Money, cards and tipping in Algeria
DZDDinar
Money in Algeria
Cash only Cash is essential: foreign cards are accepted almost nowhere outside the biggest hotels. The informal exchange rate is far better than the official one, but changing on the street is illegal. US$1 ≈ DA133.86 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: Not required; 10% in restaurants is appreciated, and small tips help for porters and drivers.
- ATMs: Most ATMs refuse foreign Visa and Mastercard cards; bring euros or dollars in clean notes and change at banks or bureaux.
- Paying by phone: Local bank apps and Edahabia cards are for residents; visitors cannot rely on Apple, Google Pay or card taps.
- Price level: about 33% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Algiers | Cash only | Cash is king; foreign cards often fail at ATMs and shops. The street exchange rate is far above the bank rate, and changing on the street is illegal. Bring cash and carry plenty of dinars. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Algeria?
Not required; 10% in restaurants is appreciated, and small tips help for porters and drivers.
Is Algeria cashless?
Cash only. Cash is essential: foreign cards are accepted almost nowhere outside the biggest hotels. The informal exchange rate is far better than the official one, but changing on the street is illegal.
What currency does Algeria use?
The Dinar (DZD). US$1 ≈ DA133.86 (03 Oct 2026).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- UK FCDO travel advice: Algeria
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.