Ethiopia has officially opened the doors to its newest and most ambitious events venue: the New International Convention Centre, marking a major step toward positioning the country as a leading conference destination in East Africa.
Inaugurated in March 2025, the state-of-the-art facility spans a vast 40-hectare area in the heart of the capital. With two massive halls capable of hosting 4,000 participants each, plus eight additional meeting spaces, the indoor complex can accommodate up to 10,000 delegates at any one time.
But the scope goes even further. The centre is equipped for outdoor exhibitions, boasting space for up to 50,000 visitors. Two amphitheatres also expand the venue’s cultural and entertainment offerings, allowing for performances, festivals, and large-scale public gatherings.
A Full-Service Hub for Business Tourism
The venue integrates everything needed for large-scale international events. On-site accommodations include two hotels with a combined capacity of 1,000 beds, while two shopping malls within the complex provide retail, dining, and essential services. Parking infrastructure has been developed to support thousands of vehicles.
Strategically located next to Lemi Park—Addis Ababa’s second-largest public square—the centre promises seamless accessibility and visibility for both local and international guests.
A Strategic Move for Ethiopia’s Regional Influence
Government officials see the convention centre as a pillar in Ethiopia’s push to become a key hub for diplomacy, trade, and continental cooperation. With global interest in Africa’s emerging markets growing rapidly, business tourism is on the rise. According to recent projections, Sub-Saharan Africa’s economic growth is expected to accelerate to 3.5% in 2025, creating more opportunities for investment and partnerships.
Ethiopia is already home to the African Union Commission Conference Centre, a major site for political and policy meetings. The addition of the new convention centre is expected to complement and expand the country’s capacity to host high-profile international events.
Part of a Broader Vision
The opening of the centre aligns with Ethiopia’s broader infrastructure agenda. Over the past decade, the country has embarked on transformative national projects such as the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), and investments in renewable energy sources including solar, wind, and geothermal.
Officials hope the new centre will not only draw conferences, exhibitions, and trade shows but also elevate Ethiopia’s image as a modern, forward-looking nation within the African continent and beyond.
As East Africa’s voice in international affairs continues to grow, Addis Ababa’s latest addition reflects a larger ambition — to be at the heart of Africa’s business, political, and cultural exchanges.