Desalination Project: Coastal Wilaya Real Estate Is Flourishing
Algeria’s energy and water transition is reshaping the real estate landscape in coastal regions. Thanks to the expansion of desalination projects, wilayas such as Oran, Skikda, and Béchar are experiencing an economic revival. These strategic initiatives, backed by international partnerships, are driving rising demand for housing among workers, executives, and investors. Discover how these projects are transforming territories and creating sustainable real estate opportunities via our price map by wilaya.
Desalination Projects Revitalize Industrial Zones
Since 2023, Algeria has launched an ambitious desalination plan aiming to produce 1.2 million m³/day of potable water by 2030. According to data from the ons.dz" rel="nofollow">High Commission for Planning (HCP), this represents a 240% increase compared to 2020. These infrastructures, concentrated in coastal wilayas, are at the heart of new industrial developments. Industrial zones in Skikda, Oran, and Béchar now benefit from stable water access—a decisive advantage for attracting investors in chemicals, food, and renewable energy sectors.
Impact on Territorial Attractiveness
Guaranteed water access is a major investment lever. Studies by the Bank of Algeria show that each desalination project generates an average 18% increase in property prices within a 10 km radius. This trend is particularly evident in Skikda, where the average price per m² in industrial zones rose from 350 DA in 2022 to 520 DA in 2025, according to the IA consensus price map.
Saudi Partnerships and Industrial Transformation
The agreements signed in 2024 between Algeria, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa plan the creation of seven industrial centers dedicated to water treatment, waste recycling, and solar energy production. These partnerships involve technology transfers and financing through Mourabaha mechanisms, facilitating the establishment of Saudi subsidiaries in strategic industrial zones.
- Skikda Desalination Center (150,000 m³/day): Operational by 2027, it will meet 80% of the wilaya’s industrial water needs.
- Béchar Activity Zone (pilot project): Integration of a solar desalination network with a capacity of 40,000 m³/day.
- Oran Logistics Platform (port zone): Development of temporary housing for engineering and construction teams.
Opportunities for Real Estate Developers
Real estate developers now have a strategic advantage: anticipating workforce migration needs. Desalination projects are attracting thousands of skilled workers, often on temporary assignments. This creates urgent demand for affordable housing, student residences, and mixed-use complexes (housing + services).
Companies such as DZ-Immobilier have already identified strategic land plots near desalination sites. In Oran, a 2025 project for 120 student and worker apartments was launched, with projected returns of 14% over five years, according to simulations by the real estate loan broker.
Comparative Table: Real Estate Potential by Coastal Wilaya
| Criteria | Skikda | Oran | Béchar | Tamanrasset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Desalination Capacity (m³/day) | 150,000 | 85,000 | 40,000 | Not specified |
| Price per m² (2025) | 520 DA | Higher | Lower | Pilot project |
| Growth Potential | High | Very High | Very High | High (sustainable development) |
What are the industrial centers being developed thanks to Saudi partnerships?
The priority centers are Skikda (water treatment + energy), Oran (port logistics platform), Béchar (solar desalination), and Tamanrasset (pilot project for sustainable development).
Who are the main players in real estate investment in these areas?
Real estate developers, partner real estate agencies, property management firms, and institutional investors using Mourabaha mechanisms.
Which wilayas are most attractive for energy-related real estate investment?
Oran, Skikda, Béchar, and Tamanrasset are the most dynamic wilayas. Oran leads in price levels and investment volume, while Béchar offers high growth potential at lower costs.
How to estimate the return on a real estate project linked to a desalination project?
Use our free <a href="/estimation-immobiliere">real estate estimation tool</a> by entering the wilaya, property type, and proximity to the project. Simulations show returns between 12% and 18% over five years in target zones.
Conclusion
Desalination projects are profoundly transforming coastal wilaya real estate. Thanks to Saudi partnerships and industrial investments, territories such as Skikda, Oran, Béchar, and Tamanrasset are becoming major hubs of attraction. For investors, this presents a unique opportunity to seize high-potential, profitable ventures. Explore available land and simulate your project today with our estimation tool.
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Source data: HCP, Bank of Algeria, Ministry of Energy, DZ-Immobilier (2025)