Addis Ababa Tourism Development Boosts International, Continental Event Hosting Capability
City’s MICE Tourism Sector on the Rise
Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia, is fast becoming a prime destination for international and continental events. The Addis Ababa Culture, Arts, and Tourism Bureau has highlighted the city’s significant progress in developing its Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism sector. This development has enabled the city to successfully host numerous international and continental events, underscoring its growing reputation as a hub for MICE tourism in Africa.
Unlocking Ethiopia’s Tourism Potential
Hunde Kebede, Deputy Head of the Bureau, cites Addis Ababa’s growing events as proof of its MICE progress. Historically, Ethiopia’s tourism has lagged, failing to harness its vast resources, he notes. However, recent reforms have revitalized the sector, now emerging as a key economic pillar, set to transform Addis Ababa tourism.
Investing in Infrastructure Development
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed leads national programs developing tourism destinations for the country’s benefit. Meanwhile, Addis Ababa tourism initiatives renovate and enhance iconic attractions like Friendship Square, Entoto, and Unity Park. Specifically, these efforts aim to boost tourist numbers and extend their stays, subsequently increasing the sector’s economic benefits.
Boosting MICE Tourism in Addis Ababa
Landmark constructions, like the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum and the Addis International Convention Center, boost Addis Ababa tourism. As the headquarters of international institutions, the city regularly hosts conferences, solidifying its position as an ideal event location. Moreover, the city has hosted over 50 international events in just six months, propelling its business event sector forward.Currently, Addis Ababa stands at a pivotal moment in its growth as a top MICE destination in Africa.
Capitalizing on MICE Tourism Potential
The Bureau takes a proactive approach to promoting Addis Ababa tourism by establishing a dedicated department. This department capitalizes on the city’s potential, actively raising awareness among sector stakeholders. Moreover, Hunde Kebede highlights the significant role of tourism in the country’s development, extending beyond economic benefits. Additionally, tourism promotes cultural exchange and fosters international connections. As the city’s event hosting capability continues to grow, it is poised to become a leading destination for business events in Africa.
A Glimpse into the Future
Addis Ababa will host more international and continental events, including the African Union Summit and the World Economic Forum on Africa. With its rich cultural heritage and modern infrastructure, the city is poised to thrive. Consequently, Addis Ababa tourism will flourish, solidifying its position as a leading tourist destination in Africa. Meanwhile, the city’s event hosting capabilities will attract more international visitors, boosting its economy. As of 2025, Addis Ababa has become a top 10 MICE destination in Africa, with a 20% year-over-year growth rate. Furthermore, the city’s tourism development has created over 10,000 new jobs, significantly contributing to the country’s economic growth.
Source: ENA