Addis Ababa
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Welcome to Addis Ababa

Explore the rich history and diversity of this sprawling capital. At the base of the Entoto Mountains, you’ll find an eclectic mix of new and old – and a city that’s as cosmopolitan as they come.

It’s also the birthplace of coffee and the perfect place to experience traditional Ethiopian cuisine.

Top things to see and do in Addis Ababa

  • Discover fascinating cultural artefacts at the National Museum, home to the famous skeleton of ‘Lucy’ – a fossilised human ancestor whose remains are over 3 million years old.
  • Climb up to the Mount Entoto lookout for a bird’s eye view of the sprawling Addis Ababa metropolis below.
  • Treat your taste buds to a cup of aromatic Ethiopian coffee – brewed from among the finest beans in the world.
  • Browse handicrafts, textiles and spices galore in the chaotic and colourful Mercato – the largest open-air market in Africa.
  • Feast on mouth-watering cuisine in the traditional local style: by sharing a plate of injera (flat bread) topped with an array of spicy dishes.

Tips for travellers

Spend a day or two in the nearby town of Debre Zeit – from here you can visit stunning volcanic crater lakes and even do a spot of bird-watching.

Travel ideas

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Useful information about Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Current weather
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Average temps
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Time & date
  • 03:40 Local time
  • Thu 07 Dec Date
  • GMT+3 Time Zone
More info
  • Ethiopian birr Currency
  • Amharic Languages
  • 220 V, 50 Hz, type C/F plug Power adapter

You can get around Addis Ababa by car hire, bus or taxi. Although the country's infrastructure has improved significantly in the last few years, roads still remain uneven and potholes are an inconvenience to motorists. If you plan on hiring a car, four-wheel drive vehicles are your best option. Several car hire agencies are available but only in Addis Ababa. You'll need to be at least 18 years old to drive in Ethiopia. Alternatively, you can hire a vehicle with a driver. This option tends to be more expensive but will usually include the driver's wages, the cost of fuel and insurance. If you decide to take taxis, make sure that you negotiate the fare with the driver beforehand as taxis are not usually metred. You can also take buses to get to major cities within the country. Note however, that the bus frequency is low and timings can be inconsistent.

Our destinations are split into 8 different zones. The cost of checking in baggage per kilo depends on what zone you’re flying to and from.

For more information, please visit our Airport baggage rates page.

Before you fly, please make certain you have the correct visa and documents required to enter the country. Check with the relevant embassy to find out what you need.

Travel Guard for flydubai is the travel insurance provided by flydubai’s travel partner, AIG Inc. It can cover you if:

  • you have to cancel your trip 
  • you need emergency medical treatment while you’re away 
  • you need to fly home early

For more information about how you can take out your travel insurance when you book your flydubai flight, visit our Travel insurance page.

Airport information

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