Hafid Derradji Spotlights Algiers, Boosting Tourism and National Pride

Algiers is gaining unexpected attention thanks to a recent video shared by renowned Algerian journalist and sports commentator Hafid Derradji. The video, widely circulated on social media, showcases the beauty of the Algerian capital and has garnered significant online engagement.

A Rising Star’s Influence

Hafid Derradji, who boasts over 23 million followers across various platforms and is a prominent commentator for beIN SPORTS, is playing a key role in increasing the visibility of Algiers. His Instagram post featuring the video garnered nearly a million views in a short period, accompanied by a wave of positive comments [Source: Reddit].

Celebrating Algiers: Beyond Architecture

In the caption accompanying the video, Derradji emphasized that Algiers’ beauty extends beyond its physical structures. He wrote, “The beauty of Algiers does not only lie in its architecture and its buildings, but also in the beauty of the hearts of its inhabitants, in their kindness, their generosity and their sense of honor.” He further stated that the city “vibrates through its people before its streets and adorns itself with the values of its citizens before its monuments.”

A Visual Journey Through the Capital

The 40-second video presents a curated selection of images highlighting Algiers’ diverse attractions. These include its neo-Moorish architecture, the stunning bay, seaside promenades, pleasant climate, and the lush Jardin d’Essai du Hamma, accessible by cable car. The Martyr’s Memorial, a significant national symbol, also features prominently, alongside vibrant street scenes depicting a dynamic city [Source: Wikipedia].

International Acclaim and Tourism

The video sparked comparisons to European cities, with comments like “It’s even more beautiful than Europe!” and “Impossible to believe it’s in Algeria, it looks like Europe.” These reactions have come from internet users across the Arab world, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, and Libya, with many expressing admiration for the city and its people.

This increased visibility comes as Algiers is establishing itself as a growing tourist destination in North Africa, attracting more international visitors, particularly from Europe, who are drawn to its unique charm.

Hafid Derradji: A Profile

Hafid Derradji was born on October 10, 1964, in Algiers, Algeria. He studied at the Institute of Information and Communication, graduating in 1988. He began his career as a journalist with Télévision Algérienne (ENTV GROUP) in 1989, working as a sports commentator, presenter, and producer for 19 years. He has received numerous awards, including the 2004 International Olympic Committee Award for Sports and Media and the 2001 award for Best Sports Commentator from the Moroccan newspaper Ahdath. Since 2012, he has been a sports commentator at beIN SPORTS [Source: Wikipedia]. He is considered one of the best football commentators in the Arab world [Source: LinkedIn] and currently has 6 million followers on Instagram [Source: Instagram].