THE POSSIBILITY OF EXPLOITING THE TOURISM POTENTIALS IN BISKRA PROVINCE (SOUTH-EASTERN ALGERIA)

Saharan tourism in Algeria is promising and can give a boost to the country’s tourism and the economic sector. The aim of this study is to measure the tourist appeal of Biskra through its natural and cultural assets. We will try to identify its potential and constraints in order to promote local tourism while taking into account the specificities of our territory. This study will focus on the Biskra province, which is one of the Saharan Algerian cities. It is located in the loop of oases, connecting the north and the south of the country. It is famous for its palm trees, dates (Deglet Nour) and its traditional architecture. Within the framework of spatial planning and tourism development our research theme will focus on the enhancement of local assets in order to promote the tourism sector so that it is equitable and sustainable while respecting moral and cultural integrity of the region. To do so, we opted for a theoretical and analytical approach by consulting a set of bibliographic references, interviewing local officials and conducting field visits. Driven by SWOT analysis (Strengths – Weaknesses – Opportunities – Threats), which is a diagnostic and decision support tool. The results show that our study area is rich in natural and cultural potential. Nevertheless, the development of tourism is lagging behind and it is therefore necessary to seek the tourism model adapted to the specificities of the region and the capacities to be developed to achieve the objectives defined by the SDAT 2030 (Master Plan for Tourism Development).