Algerian City Imposes Fines on Wedding Ceremonies After 7 PM, Sparking Public Outcry

Ghardaïa: A controversial new policy introduced by the municipal authorities in Ghardaïa, Algeria, has triggered widespread public backlash. The local administration has announced financial penalties for hosting wedding and family celebrations after 7 PM, a decision that many see as irrational and burdensome.
According to **Al Arabiya News**, the municipality declared that families holding wedding or similar gatherings after 7 PM will be fined **800 Algerian dinars** (approximately **\$3**) per attendee. If the celebration continues past 7 PM, the fine increases to **1,500 dinars** (around **\$6**) per guest.
This policy, officially enforced since **May 2024**, is part of broader administrative and financial regulations aimed at organizing public events more efficiently.
Public Reaction
The announcement has ignited a wave of criticism on social media. Many users view the fines as an **unjust interference** in personal and cultural affairs, especially weddings — events deeply rooted in Algerian tradition.
One user commented, “What harm does it do to the municipality if a wedding runs late?” Another wrote, “This affects all kinds of family gatherings. People are being deprived of their happiness.”
Municipality’s Clarification
In response to the backlash, a municipal official defended the decision, stating that the **intention is not to collect revenue**, but to **regulate the timing and conduct** of events. The official added that the fines are minimal compared to typical wedding expenses and are **affordable for most families**.
Expert Opinion
Social expert **Abdelhafid Sunduqi** emphasized that weddings are seen as **sacred traditions** in Algerian society. “Even in financial hardship, people insist on celebrating, often taking loans to host weddings,” he noted.
He further explained that the additional financial penalty, however small, could still place **undue pressure** on families — both economically and logistically. Many weddings take place in authorized venues with proper permits, and such fines might **discourage families from organizing events altogether**.
The debate continues to grow, as citizens demand either a rollback of the policy or at least more flexibility for evening celebrations.