Ethiopia has taken a monumental step in bolstering its Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry with the inauguration of the Addis International Convention Center (AICC). This state-of-the-art facility, completed with an investment exceeding 28 billion ETB, is set to transform Addis Ababa into a premier destination for global events.

The AICC was officially opened last weekend in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and a host of high-level Ethiopian and international dignitaries. The center, strategically located next to Lemi Park, Addis Ababa’s second-largest public square, is designed to meet international standards and accommodate a diverse range of events.

The Addis International Convention Center boasts impressive infrastructure, including two grand conference halls that can host between 3,000 to 4,000 attendees each. Additionally, the center features eight smaller meeting rooms, capable of accommodating up to 10,000 participants in total. The facility is surrounded by six luxury hotels, providing over 1,000 rooms for international and local guests.

The expansive exhibition grounds can host up to 50,000 visitors, making it ideal for trade fairs, cultural exhibitions, and business expos. The center also includes state-of-the-art business and retail spaces, with 50 commercial outlets offering office spaces, banks, restaurants, and high-end retail shops. An ample parking lot with a capacity for 2,000 vehicles ensures convenience for attendees.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized the center's role in attracting international events and fostering business tourism. "The Addis International Convention Center will serve as a venue for trade, idea exchange, and diplomacy. Major events that connect Africa will take place here, including the upcoming World AI Conference and Exhibition," he stated.

The development of the AICC aligns with Ethiopia’s economic vision to become a leading player in Africa’s MICE industry. By providing modern infrastructure and comprehensive services, Ethiopia aims to compete with other African nations in attracting international summits, corporate events, and cultural exchanges.

The completion of the Addis International Convention Center is a testament to Ethiopia's commitment to leveraging its unique assets and strategic location to become a leading destination for global gatherings. The center is expected to drive economic growth by boosting tourism, attracting international business, and creating employment opportunities in Ethiopia’s event management, hospitality, and service industries.

As Ethiopia continues to witness tremendous successes from its sound development policy approach, the AICC stands as a landmark achievement, positioning Addis Ababa as an ideal hub for global events.

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New international convention centre opens in Addis Ababa