7 Reasons to Host Your Next Event in Addis Ababa

Thinking about hosting an event in Addis Ababa? Prepare for a city unlike any other. 

Ethiopia’s capital is a heady mix of ancient history, deep-rooted culture, continent-spanning diplomacy, and burgeoning modernity. The scent of coffee wafting through the streets. The historic churches. The world-class venues. Whether you’re planning a corporate get-together or multilateral trade conference – you’ll find plenty of opportunities to impress your participants. 

So, let’s get stuck in. Here’s seven reasons to host your next international event in Addis Ababa. 

(But first: our local Ethiopian events team have years of experience executing events in Addis. Book a call to see how we can help craft an unforgettable event in 2024.)

Quick Guide: 7 Reasons to Host an Event in Addis Ababa

1. Connectivity: Addis Ababa is a major hub with direct flights from key cities worldwide, making it easily accessible.
2. Ease of Visa: Streamlined visa processes with options for conference visas, e-visas, visa-on-arrival, and visa exemptions for certain nationalities.
3. Conference Centers: State-of-the-art venues like the African Union Conference Center and United Nations Conference Center cater to large international gatherings.
4. Modern Hotel Venues: Top hotels such as Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa, Ethiopian Skylight Hotel, Hilton Addis Ababa, and Sheraton Addis Ababa offer luxurious accommodations and excellent event facilities.
5. Political Capital of Africa: Home to the African Union and UNECA, providing unparalleled access to key policymakers and a vibrant diplomatic community.
6. Ethiopian Culture: Rich cultural experiences with traditional music, dance, cuisine, and festivals that enhance any event.
7. Historic Sights: Explore significant landmarks such as the National Museum of Ethiopia, Holy Trinity Cathedral, and the Ethnological Museum.

This quick guide highlights why Addis Ababa is an ideal destination for hosting your next event or conference.

1. Connectivity 

The Ethiopian government has positioned the country as “The Gateway to Africa” – becoming the biggest hub for international flights to and from the continent. Ethiopian Airlines alone has direct connections with 155 destinations across the globe. This makes Addis Ababa the most accessible destination in Africa for international event attendees. 

Bole International Airport is a short drive from downtown Addis Ababa and has been modernized significantly to facilitate the number of arrivals into the city. Most venues and top hotels are a short drive away, and the arrival process is usually quick and hassle-free. 

Here are some key direct flight connections to Addis Ababa from around the world:

Africa

• Nairobi, Kenya: Daily flights by Ethiopian Airlines and Kenya Airways.
• Johannesburg, South Africa: Multiple weekly flights by Ethiopian Airlines and South African Airways.
• Lagos, Nigeria: Regular flights by Ethiopian Airlines.
• Cairo, Egypt: Multiple weekly flights by Ethiopian Airlines and EgyptAir.
• Accra, Ghana: Frequent flights by Ethiopian Airlines.

Europe

• London, UK: Daily flights by Ethiopian Airlines.
• Frankfurt, Germany: Daily flights by Ethiopian Airlines and Lufthansa.
• Paris, France: Daily flights by Ethiopian Airlines and Air France.
• Rome, Italy: Regular flights by Ethiopian Airlines.
• Istanbul, Turkey: Multiple daily flights by Turkish Airlines and Ethiopian Airlines.

Middle East

• Dubai, UAE: Daily flights by Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, and Flydubai.
• Doha, Qatar: Daily flights by Ethiopian Airlines and Qatar Airways.
• Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Multiple weekly flights by Ethiopian Airlines and Saudia.
• Tel Aviv, Israel: Regular flights by Ethiopian Airlines.

Asia

• Beijing, China: Regular flights by Ethiopian Airlines.
• Mumbai, India: Multiple weekly flights by Ethiopian Airlines.
• Bangkok, Thailand: Regular flights by Ethiopian Airlines.
• Seoul, South Korea: Direct flights by Ethiopian Airlines.
• Tokyo, Japan: Multiple weekly flights by Ethiopian Airlines.

Americas

• Washington, D.C., USA: Multiple weekly flights by Ethiopian Airlines.
• Toronto, Canada: Regular flights by Ethiopian Airlines.
• São Paulo, Brazil: Regular flights by Ethiopian Airlines.

2. Easy Visa Processes 

Ethiopia has made huge strides in streamlining its visa processes. Your international participants will have plenty of options, depending on their nationality and the purpose of their travel (i.e., they’re attending your event or covering it for news media). 

Many visas can be issued online, making group applications even easier. These include: 

• Conference Visa: 30-day single-entry visa for attending conferences, seminars, or workshops organized by government or private entities.
• Journalist Visa: 30-day single-entry visa for journalists, media professionals, or filmmakers covering events or producing content.
• Visa-on-Arrival: Available for tourists from African Union member states and select other countries.
• Visa Exemption: Offered to Kenyan and Djiboutian citizens and holders of diplomatic or service passports from any country except Pakistan and Somalia.

For more information, check out our Ethiopian visa guide or speak to one of our local Addis Ababa guides. They’ll walk you through the visas needed for all your international participants. Book a call. 

3. Comprehensive Conference Centers 

Addis Ababa is home to two conference centers built for large diplomatic gatherings: 

• African Union Conference Center: Located within the AU headquarters, this venue offers top-notch facilities and security, ideal for high-level meetings and conferences. The largest single-capacity space accommodates up to 4,500pax. 
• United Nations Conference Center (UNCC-AA): This premier venue features 36 versatile meeting rooms, VIP areas, indoor exhibit spaces, and spacious networking areas. 

Both are available for private bookings. 

While you’ll have to follow strict application and security protocols to host an event here, you’ll benefit from the prestige of doing so in the hall of the African Union or United Nations HQ. You’ll also benefit from state-of-the-art conference facilities, advanced technology, and comprehensive support services.

4. Modern Hotel Venues

If a conference center doesn’t fit your needs, Addis Ababa has plenty of international and local hotels with state-of-the-art event venues and meeting rooms. These hotels are world-class and popular venues for visiting diplomats – so your participants won’t be disappointed by the facilities or the accommodations. 

Here are our four favorite hotel venues across the city, based on many events we’ve organized and attended:

• Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa: A luxurious 5-star hotel situated in the heart of the city. Known for its modern design and world-class amenities, it provides an elegant setting for any event.
• Ethiopian Skylight Hotel: Located just a few hundred meters from Bole International Airport, the hotel boasts the largest ballroom in Addis Ababa, accommodating up to 4,000pax. 
• Hilton Addis Ababa: Combines modern amenities with traditional Ethiopian hospitality, creating a unique and memorable experience. The hotel provides 11 flexible meeting rooms, including beautiful gardens for outdoor events.
• Sheraton Addis Ababa: Set on a hilltop, offering panoramic city views and a serene environment for events. 14 meeting rooms include a grand ballroom that can accommodate 1,200pax.

Our complete guide to Addis Ababa’s best venues goes into more detail about each one. But if you still need help figuring out the best venue for your event, book a call with our Ethiopia team, and they’ll find the right match. 

5. The Political Capital of Africa 

Addis Ababa’s political stature within Africa offers numerous strategic advantages to event organizers. 

The African Union (AU) headquarters and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) are located here, making the city a hub for political and economic discussions that shape the continent. Proximity to both offer unparalleled access to key policymakers, diplomats, and thought leaders. You’ll have an excellent opportunity to network, secure high-profile speakers, and attract delegates engaged in significant continental affairs.

The city’s many embassies and international organizations foster a vibrant diplomatic community. You can easily facilitate bilateral and multilateral meetings, discussions, and partnerships for events to promote international cooperation and dialogue. 

Addis Ababa’s experience handling such events ensures all necessary protocols and security measures are in place.

6. Ethiopian Culture 

Ethiopia is one of the most culturally rich countries in Africa (and the world). 

Exploring Addis Ababa’s cultural landscape connects visitors with the country’s soul. Through music, food, festivals – and, most importantly, coffee – the city provides rich and immersive cultural experiences to complement any event. 

Let’s start with Ethiopian music and dance. They’re deeply intertwined with the country’s cultural and spiritual life. To experience this firsthand, head to these two venues: 

• Yod Abyssinia: You’re not just dining; you’re joining an authentic cultural celebration. As you enjoy traditional dishes, be captivated by the energetic performances of Ethiopian dancers and musicians, showcasing a variety of traditional styles from across the country. Similarly, 
• Fendika: offers an intimate setting where legendary ‘azmari’ performers use song, dance, and poetry to tell stories, accompanied by traditional instruments like the ‘masenqo’ and ‘krar.’

Next, the food. Ethiopian cuisine is renowned for its unique flavors and communal dining style. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to introduce both into your event through catering or trips to popular restaurants like Yod Abyssinia. Make sure you send your participants to a Tomoca coffee branch to experience Ethiopian cafe culture. 

Finally, the festivals. The Ethiopian calendar is resplendent with cultural and religious festivals throughout the year. The Timkat Festival, held in January, is one of the most important religious festivals, commemorating the baptism of Jesus Christ. The city comes alive with processions, prayers, and celebrations. But any festival that coincides with your event can easily complement it and leave your participants with memories for a lifetime. 

7. Historic Sights

Addis Ababa’s historic landmarks will add depth to your event itinerary and give participants a chance to bond while exploring Ethiopia’s fascinating past. They also complement the contemporary cultural highlights, providing context for how Addis Ababa emerged as such a unique city.

Packing every sight into an event itinerary is impossible. So, here’s a few “not-to-be-missed” highlights: 

• National Museum of Ethiopia: Home to the world-famous fossil “Lucy,” the National Museum offers a comprehensive journey through Ethiopia’s ancient and recent history. 
• Holy Trinity Cathedral: One of Ethiopia’s most significant religious sites, the Holy Trinity Cathedral is renowned for its stunning architecture and historical importance. 
• Ethnological Museum: Located within the Addis Ababa University, the Ethnological Museum provides a deep dive into the diverse cultures and traditions of Ethiopia’s various ethnic groups.
• St. George’s Cathedral: This iconic octagonal church, built in the traditional Ethiopian style, symbolizes the nation’s rich religious heritage. The cathedral’s museum displays religious artifacts, manuscripts, and artworks, offering insights into Ethiopia’s Christian history.

For a more comprehensive overview, read our guide on things to do in Addis Ababa. 

How To Host an Event in Addis Ababa

Hopefully, we’ve enticed you with the wonders of Ethiopia’s incredible capital city. 

But this guide is just a tiny sample of everything Addis offers event organizers. And you still need to plan the logistics, transport, accommodation, and itinerary. 

That’s where we come in! Book a call with our local team in Addis Ababa, and we’ll guide you through every step of the process. We take care of everything, so you can focus on creating the most memorable experience for all involved.