Venue & Travel
Everything you need to know about getting to and staying in Addis Ababa for AWS-2026
Conference Venue
Conference Venue — To Be Confirmed
The official conference venue is still being finalized. Final venue details will be announced on the conference website and via email to registered participants.
Africa Center of Excellence for Water Management (ACEWM)
College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Addis Ababa University
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Getting to the Venue
From Airports
Bole International Airport (ADD)
Distance: ~7 km to ACEWM (approx.)
Estimated Time: 20-40 minutes by car (traffic dependent)
Transport Options:
Taxi, Ride-hailing (Ride, Feres, ZayRide), Hotel Shuttle, Airport Bus
The main international gateway to Ethiopia and one of Africa's busiest airports. Visa on arrival is available for most nationalities.
Public Transport
City Buses & Light Rail
Anbessa City Bus and Sheger Bus services cover major routes. Fares: 2-10 ETB. Light Rail system: 6-10 ETB per ride.
Walking
The area around the conference venue is pedestrian-friendly during the day. Use pedestrian crossings.
Taxi & Ride-Hailing
Ride-Hailing Apps
Popular apps: Ride, Feres, ZayRide. Download before arrival and use local SIM.
Official Blue Taxis
Available throughout city. Negotiate fare before starting. Typical airport trip: 300-500 ETB.
Recommended Accommodation
We have negotiated special conference rates at the following hotels. Please mention "AWS-2026" when making your reservation.
Sheraton Addis
Hilton Addis Ababa
Radisson Blu Hotel
Elilly International
Jupiter International
Capital Hotel and Spa
Booking Tips
- Book early to secure the best rates and availability
- Mention "AWS-2026" to access special conference rates
- Consider proximity to the venue for convenience
- Check if breakfast and Wi-Fi are included
Visa & Travel Requirements
Ethiopia offers visa on arrival for most nationalities at Bole International Airport. You can also apply for an e-Visa before your trip for a smoother arrival experience.
How to Apply for e-Visa
Letter of Invitation
If you need an official letter of invitation to support your visa application, please contact the conference secretariat at visa@aws-2026.org after completing your registration.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend that all international participants obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and trip cancellation. Ethiopia has good private medical facilities in Addis Ababa, but medical evacuation coverage is highly recommended.
Connectivity
Ethio Telecom or Safaricom
SIM cards are available at the airport kiosks. You'll need a passport copy. Data is affordable: 1GB ~ $1, 5GB ~ $5. Ethio Telecom has the best nationwide coverage.
WhatsApp Usage
WhatsApp and Telegram are widely used for communication in Ethiopia. Most businesses and individuals are reachable via these platforms.
Money Matters
Ethiopian Birr (ETB)
Major credit cards are accepted at hotels and malls. However, carry ETB cash for smaller shops and taxis. ATMs are widely available at major banks.
Foreign Exchange
Exchange USD/EUR/GBP at official bank counters or your hotel. Avoid street exchange. Keep receipts to reconvert upon departure.
Markets & Cultural Shopping
Traditional Market
Mercato
The largest open-air market in Africa. Great for spices, crafts, and textiles. Best visited with a guide.
Modern Shopping
Bole Road District
Modern malls, international brands, boutiques, and cafes. Dembel City Center and Edna Mall are key spots.
Health & Safety
Altitude & Water
Addis Ababa is at 2,400m. Stay hydrated and take it easy on your first day. Drink only bottled water.
Emergency Numbers
Police: 911 | Ambulance: 907 | Fire: 939
Black Lion Hospital: +251 11 553 4234
Inclusion & Accessibility
AWS-2026 is committed to ensuring an inclusive and accessible conference experience for all participants.
Venue Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible entrances and elevators throughout the venue
- Accessible restrooms on all conference floors
- Reserved seating in all session rooms
Assistance Services
- Sign language interpretation available upon request
- Assistive listening devices for hearing-impaired participants
- Large print materials available
Special Requirements?
If you have specific accessibility needs, please contact us at least two weeks before the event.
accessibility@aws-2026.orgNeed More Information?
If you have any other questions regarding your travel to Addis Ababa or the conference venue, our logistics team is ready to assist you.