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thiopia has unveiled an ambitious national tourism strategy aimed at positioning the country among Africa's leading emerging destinations, while simultaneously advancing a landmark project to construct the continent's largest international airport.
Together, these initiatives reflect a coordinated vision linking sustainable development with economic modernisation.
Dr Jemal Beker Abdullah, Ethiopia's Ambassador to the UAE, stated that the strategy is part of a comprehensive national reform agenda led by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, designed to transform the tourism sector and strengthen its global competitiveness. Urban rehabilitation efforts, anchored in Addis Ababa and extended to more than 70 cities nationwide, are forming the backbone of a modern, integrated tourism ecosystem.
In a significant regional recognition, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has been designated Tourism Champion of IGAD - the Regional Intergovernmental Authority on Development - underscoring Ethiopia's role as the standard-bearer for tourism development across the Horn and East Africa. The designation reflects both his personal commitment to the sector, and the tangible results his administration has delivered on the ground.
Chief among those results is a series of new ecotourism destinations. Sustainable resorts and environmentally responsible projects are also being developed in globally significant locations such as the Simien Mountains, the Omo Valley, and the Great Rift Valley lake system - supported by updated environmental legislation and strengthened wildlife conservation programmes.
Ethiopia's tourism offering is further anchored by its extraordinary historical and cultural heritage. World-famous sites including the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the ancient city of Axum, alongside major celebrations such as Meskel and Timkat, continue to draw significant international and domestic visitors. These experiences, spanning millennia, add depth and authenticity that few destinations can match.
To drive private-sector participation, the government is improving the investment climate through tax incentives, streamlined administrative procedures, and expanded infrastructure - including transport networks, hotels and tourism services. Air connectivity with the UAE remains a key pillar of this strategy, given the UAE's standing as a critical strategic partner in Ethiopia's travel and tourism growth.
The ambassador also highlighted the construction of a new international airport, with a projected annual capacity of up to 110 million passengers and an estimated investment of $12.5 billion currently underway. Once completed, the facility is expected to substantially elevate Africa's aviation capacity and support the continued expansion of Ethiopian Airlines - the continent's leading carrier by network reach, currently serving more than 130 international destinations.