Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The grand opening of the New International Convention Center today marks a major milestone in Ethiopia’s efforts to establish itself as a premier destination for global business events, conferences, and exhibitions. Situated on 40 hectares of prime land, the center is designed to accommodate a diverse range of events, from corporate gatherings to cultural festivals, significantly enhancing the country’s hospitality and tourism sectors.
With cutting-edge infrastructure, the center aims to foster both local and international collaboration, offering world-class facilities for those attending major events. It is positioned to become the largest conference facility in Ethiopia and one of the most expansive in East Africa, bolstering the country’s standing in the international events and conventions industry.
Key Specifications of the New International Convention Center:
- Total Area: 40 hectares of land
- Conference Halls:
- Two large halls with a capacity of 3,000 to 4,000 people each
- Eight small and medium-sized meeting halls with a total capacity of up to 10,000 people
- Accommodation:
- Two hotels with a combined capacity of 1,000 beds
- Exhibition Spaces:
- Outdoor exhibition area capable of hosting up to 50,000 people
- Two amphitheaters designed for outdoor events and performances
- 2 hectares of outdoor exhibition space
- Commercial Facilities:
- Two shopping malls
- A variety of restaurants, commercial shops, banks, and other service providers
- Parking Capacity: The facility is equipped to accommodate thousands of vehicles, providing ample parking for event attendees
- Strategic Location: Located adjacent to Lemi Park, the second-largest square in Addis Ababa after Meskel Square
The center’s modern infrastructure is paired with a prime location, strategically adjacent to Lemi Park, which offers a serene yet accessible environment for both business professionals and visitors. This proximity to one of the city’s largest public spaces also contributes to the convention center’s role in further enhancing the city’s vibrancy and economic activity.
The New International Convention Center is set to host a variety of events, ranging from corporate conferences and international trade fairs to cultural exhibitions and live performances. The flexible design of the venue ensures it can cater to different types of gatherings, with options for both large-scale events and more intimate business meetings.
Why This Matters for Ethiopia:
The opening of the center is expected to significantly boost Ethiopia’s position in the global event-hosting market. By attracting international conferences and exhibitions, the center will drive tourism, create new business opportunities, and provide a platform for local industries to showcase their products and services. It will also play a crucial role in fostering economic growth, offering a venue that can accommodate both public and private sector events, thereby attracting investors, businesses, and entrepreneurs from around the world.
The Mayor’s Office has expressed optimism that the center will become a key asset to Ethiopia’s tourism strategy, facilitating long-term economic benefits through increased international exposure and greater opportunities for collaboration. With its expansive capacity and state-of-the-art facilities, the New International Convention Center is poised to become a flagship venue for the region and beyond, enhancing Ethiopia’s reputation as a leading destination for world-class events.
The New International Convention Center is not only a testament to Ethiopia’s growing infrastructure capabilities but also an investment in the nation’s future as a central hub for global business and cultural exchange. The facility is expected to make a lasting impact on both the local economy and Ethiopia’s international standing.
