Daïra of Ouled Yaïch
The daïra of Ouled Yaïch is made up of three communes: Ouled Yaïch, Béni Mered, and Chréa, with a population of 155,358 inhabitants (Ouled Yaïch: 109,621; Béni Mered: 44,703; Chréa: 1,034). This urban area, the second largest after the wilaya capital, has become sprawling over the years due to a housing stock that is constantly expanding.
The vocation of this daïra, agricultural like all the towns of the Mitidja featuring cereal crops, citrus fruits, and other types of mountain arboriculture, is undergoing a slight transformation with the development of small-scale industries such as wood processing and agri-food, particularly flour mills located across the three communes.
It owes its reputation to the presence of the Saad Dahleb University, which hosts more than 50,000 students. Along with improving living and transportation conditions in the daïra, this region also holds great ambitions for its tourist area, Chréa, a natural park listed as a World Heritage Site.
Commune of Ouled Yaïch
Ouled Yaïch is one of the most dynamic communes of the Blida province, positioned at the entrance of the Mitidja Plain. Its proximity to major urban centers, just 5 km from Blida and 42 km from Algiers, makes it an attractive place for commuters, students, and families seeking a balance between accessibility and calmer residential living. Covering about 14 km² and situated at an altitude of 188 meters, the commune now has an estimated population of around 110,000 residents.
Over the past years, Ouled Yaïch has expanded rapidly, blending older traditional neighborhoods with newly developed residential areas. This growth has strengthened its role as a vibrant urban center where modern apartments, local shops, and community services coexist. The town’s commercial activity is steadily increasing, supported by a population that relies on both local amenities and the economic opportunities of nearby cities.
Connectivity is one of the commune’s major advantages. The RN1 highway links Ouled Yaïch directly to Blida and Algiers, making daily travel straightforward. Buses, shared taxis, and private cars are the main modes of transportation, allowing residents to move easily within the area and beyond. Daily life is supported by essential services such as schools, administrative offices, health centers, and a variety of local markets, cafés, and bakeries. The cost of living remains relatively affordable, and the town benefits from quick access to the Saad Dahleb University in Blida, a major educational hub in the region.
Economically, Ouled Yaïch thrives on small commerce, local services, and nearby light industrial activities, including wood processing and agri-food production. Retail shops, construction material suppliers, cafés, and traditional markets form the backbone of its economic landscape. Together, these elements create a lively, practical, and welcoming environment that continues to attract new residents and businesses alike.
