ALGIERS - The National Agency for the Valorization of Hydrocarbon Resources (Alnaft) announced on Monday the official opening of Virtual Data Rooms (VDR) as part of the "Algeria Bid Round 2026" for hydrocarbon exploration, marking "a new milestone in the promotion of the national mining and energy sector to both national and international investors."

This is the first time that technical data related to exploration blocks offered under a bidding round has been made available through a secure digital platform, the agency noted.

This development "reflects Alnaft’s commitment to modernizing its processes, enhancing the investors’ experience, and facilitating access to strategic information regardless of their geographic location," the agency stated, noting that the opening of the data rooms will enable interested companies to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the investment opportunities available under Algeria Bid Round 2026 and prepare their bids "under optimal conditions."

"This new phase builds on the promotional efforts undertaken since the launch of the Bid Round and demonstrates Alnaft’s commitment to transparency, efficiency and the attractiveness of Algeria’s upstream hydrocarbon sector," the agency stated.

The process timeline will continue with the bid submission phase, followed by the opening and evaluation of proposals and the awarding of exploration blocks, scheduled for November 2026, then contract signing expected to take place in January 2027.

On this occasion, Alnaft reaffirmed "its determination to provide investors with a competitive, modern environment, conducive to the development of long-term partnerships that support the development of the national energy resources.

The areas offered under the Bid Round 2026 are: El Borma II (Ouargla), El M’Zaid North (Ouargla), Illizi Centre I, East Bordj Omar Driss I (Illizi), El Hadjira III (Touggourt), South Touggourt, and El Benoud East (El Bayadh)