Ethiopia is steadily emerging as a hub for conference tourism, with Addis Ababa at the heart of this transformation. The capital has become a central stage for high-profile gatherings, attracting leaders, professionals, and advocates from across the globe. In September alone, Addis Ababa welcomed heads of state and government, as well as leaders of international and regional organizations, for a series of landmark events, including UNFCCC Climate Week 2025, the Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2), and the Second Africa–CARICOM Summit. This growing portfolio of summits underscores the city’s reputation as a preferred destination for international dialogue and cooperation.
Part of Addis Ababa’s appeal lies in its expanding infrastructure and cultural assets. Iconic landmarks such as the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum and the Science Museum, combined with the new Addis International Convention Center and a growing number of international-standard hotels, give the city a unique blend of history, modernity, and convenience. These facilities not only meet the technical needs of global conferences but also offer participants a richer cultural experience. Reflecting this momentum, Ethiopia hosted more than 150 regional, continental, and international conferences during the 2017 Ethiopian Fiscal Year.
Supporting this vision are Ethiopia’s corridor development projects, which are transforming major cities into more accessible and attractive urban centers. By upgrading roads, walkways, and public spaces, these initiatives enhance mobility and create a welcoming atmosphere for international delegates. For participants, this means easier travel between airports, hotels, and venues, along with improved opportunities to experience the cultural and social life of the city beyond the conference halls.
In Addis Ababa, this drive for modernization is most visible in the construction of the Addis International Convention and Exhibition Center (AICC). Designed to host large-scale global gatherings, the AICC is equipped with expansive halls capable of accommodating thousands of participants, as well as smaller meeting spaces for parallel sessions. Together with existing venues such as the African Union and UN Conference Centers, the AICC significantly expands the city’s capacity to host global summits, exhibitions, and trade fairs, positioning Addis Ababa as a competitive hub in the international MICE sector.
The city’s status as the diplomatic capital of Africa further strengthens its natural advantage in conference tourism. Hosting the African Union, the UN Economic Commission for Africa, and more than 130 embassies, Addis Ababa is already a magnet for high-level negotiations and policymaking. This diplomatic presence ensures a steady flow of international visitors, creating consistent demand for advanced conference facilities and hospitality services. Coupled with Ethiopian Airlines’ unrivaled connectivity across Africa and beyond, Addis Ababa is uniquely positioned to harness its diplomatic influence and infrastructural growth, establishing itself as one of the continent’s foremost destinations for conference tourism.