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Addis Ababa Stadium
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Landmark
The Addis Ababa Stadium, officially part of the city's central sports complex, is the premier sporting venue in the Ethiopian capital. Originally built in the 1940s and extensively renovated in 1999 to meet international standards, the stadium has a capacity of approximately 35,000 spectators. It serves as the home ground for the Ethiopian national football team, popularly known as the 'Walias,' and hosts major athletics competitions. Located in the heart of Addis Ababa, near the central railway station and Meskel Square, it is a key urban landmark accessible to residents and visitors alike. The stadium has been the site of numerous historic matches and continental championships, including the Africa Cup of Nations. Beyond sports, the facility is used for national celebrations, political rallies, and cultural festivals. Despite the emergence of newer stadiums, it remains a powerful symbol of Ethiopia’s athletic heritage and national pride.
- Location: Ethiopia
- Nearby: Bishoftu (34 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 15 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 14 | 14 |
| Rain mm | 12 | 27 | 56 | 90 | 89 | 116 | 239 | 246 | 145 | 34 | 16 | 13 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The stadium can be visited during events, with access possible on match days or at events. On non-event days, the grounds are usually not open to the public.
Typical hours
Opening hours depend on the event calendar, with tickets usually sold before matches. There are no fixed visiting hours for tourists without an event.
Photography
Photography is usually allowed during events, but without flash to avoid blinding players. Bringing professional cameras with long lenses may be restricted.
Time needed
A football match typically lasts about 2 hours, plus time for entry and breaks. Allow a total of 2.5 to 3 hours for the stadium visit.
Combine with
Combine the stadium visit with a walk through downtown Addis Ababa, which is only a few kilometers away. Nearby are also the National Museum and the Mercato market.
Getting there
The stadium is located in central Addis Ababa and is easily accessible by taxi or bus. There are parking areas nearby, but they fill up quickly on match days.
Insider tip
Buy tickets in advance from official sales points to avoid long queues. Arrive early to enjoy the pre-match atmosphere and find a good seat.
Geography
Facts
- Originally built in the 1940s
- Capacity of approximately 35,000 spectators
- Home ground for the national football team (Walias)
- Renovated in 1999 to meet international standards
- Centrally located near Meskel Square and the train station
- Hosted the Africa Cup of Nations in 1962 and 1976
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Addis Ababa Stadium (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the capacity of the stadium?
The stadium holds about 35,000 spectators and is primarily used for football matches.
Where is the stadium located in Addis Ababa?
It is centrally located near Meskel Square and the train station in the heart of the city.
Can one visit the stadium when there is no match?
Outside of events, visiting the interior is often only possible after consulting with security personnel.
Which teams play here?
It is the home ground for the Ethiopian national team and local clubs like Saint George SC.
Are there parking spaces at the stadium?
Parking directly at the stadium is limited; it is advisable to use public transport or taxis.
Addis Ababa Stadium: where is it located?
Addis Ababa Stadium is located in Ethiopia.
Addis Ababa Stadium: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Addis Ababa Stadium: why is it worth visiting?
The Addis Ababa Stadium, officially part of the city's central sports complex, is the premier sporting venue in the Ethiopian capital.
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A prominent memorial dedicated to Ethiopian and Cuban soldiers involved in the Ogaden War.
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Built to mark Emperor Haile Selassie's Silver Jubilee, it now serves as the official residence of the President.
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A museum dedicated to the victims of the Derg regime's Red Terror campaign in the late 1970s.
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Meskel Square
The main public square in Addis Ababa, famously used for public gatherings and the annual Meskel festival.
Adey Abeba Stadium
A modern, large-capacity stadium constructed to host major international sporting events in Ethiopia.
Menelik II Monument
An equestrian statue of Emperor Menelik II, celebrating his victory at the Battle of Adwa.
Abune Petros Monument
A statue commemorating Archbishop Abune Petros, an Ethiopian patriot executed during the Italian occupation.
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Addis Lion Zoo
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St. George's Cathedral (Addis Ababa)
An octagonal church commissioned by Emperor Menelik II in 1896 to commemorate the victory at Adwa against the Italians.
Huajian Shoe Factory
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