Bole Addis Ababa International Airport: What Travelers Need to Know

The most important international airport in Ethiopia is Bole Addis Ababa International Airport (ADD), which is also a major transit point in Africa. Bole is the main entry point into Ethiopia and a major transportation center for many passing between Africa, Europe, Asia, and beyond, with millions of passengers per year.

It is strategically situated in Addis Ababa and links dozens of countries and continents. It has updated terminals, increased facilities, and frequent flights, which make travelling convenient for all.

Bole Addis Ababa International Airport is Ethiopia’s busiest aviation hub

A Quick Overview of Bole Addis Ababa International Airport

What is Bole Addis Ababa International Airport?

The busiest and largest airport in Ethiopia is Bole Addis Ababa International Airport, which is only 6km southeast of the central Addis Ababa. It is run by Ethiopian Airlines and is the main hub of Ethiopian Airlines.
This airport is referred to as ADD and is the entry to Africa and a major transit in between Europe, Asia, and Africa.

This airport has been expanding fast in the recent past. In 2019, it inaugurated a huge new international passenger terminal that raised its capacity to more than 20 million per year. Bole Addis Ababa International Airport provides the necessary services to contemporary travelers, whether flying to or out of Ethiopia or other destinations.

Where is Bole Airport Located?

Bole International Airport is situated in Addis Ababa in the Bole district; it is about a 15-minute drive (traffic dependent) to the centre of the city. It is taxi accessible, or by hotel shuttle, or personal transfer. To transiting passengers, its nearness to the downtown implies that one can take a peek at the city during long waits.

How Many Terminals Does the Airport Have?

Bole Addis Ababa International Airport has two main terminals:

Terminal 1 – Domestic & Regional

Handles domestic flights and some regional routes. Recently refurbished, it includes:

• 4 gates
• Basic amenities
• Local airline counters

Terminal 2 – International

This is the main terminal for international flights. It features:

• 7 gates
• 74 check-in counters
• Duty-free shops, lounges, restaurants, and visa-on-arrival counters

Most international travellers land and fly out of Terminal 2. It has contemporary immigration terminals, duty-free stores, waiting rooms, and improved seating areas. The two terminals have a few steps to walk in between, and there is clear white-and-orange signage in English and Amharic.

Bole Addis Ababa International Airport is generally considered a safe and friendly airport in Africa

Which Airlines Are at Bole Addis Ababa Airport?

Bole is served by the largest and most reliable airline in Africa, Ethiopian Airlines. Ethiopian Airlines provides direct flights to the maximum cities in Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North America.

Other international airlines operating here include:

• Emirates
• Turkish Airlines
• Qatar Airways
• EgyptAir
• Kenya Airways
• Lufthansa

If you're connecting between continents, Bole Addis Ababa International Airport is a key hub.

Immigration & Security Process: What You Need to Know

Standard security should be enjoyed upon entry into Ethiopia or even just in transit, but delays may occur. And make sure to complete any arrival cards and check visa requirements prior to your trip. In the case of transits, the majority of passengers stay airside, simplifying the procedure, although it is advisable to carry on boarding passes.

For most passengers, immigration at ADD is smooth, especially in the newly expanded international terminal. There are separate lines for:

• Visa on arrival
• e-Visa holders
• Ethiopian citizens/residents

Ethiopia provides an e-Visa to a wide range of nationalities, and it is strongly advised to apply online prior to travelling. It is typically faster than the visa-on-arrival queue. Once you have successfully immigrated, you will pass through customs, where your luggage is normally checked but not rigorously.

Modern terminal building at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa

Bole Airport Facilities & Amenities: Your Guide to a Comfortable Stay

Be it visiting the city or being within the terminal of Bole Addis Ababa International Airport, several facilities are available to make your waiting time more relaxing. The new terminal has boosted the overall experience of the passengers, having a variety of services. Ranging from eating, shopping, connectivity, and relaxation, there is a lot that the airport can provide to every single traveler, whether he/she is on a short transit or a long Addis Ababa layover.

Rest & Relaxation Areas

There is a range of lounges in case you wish to spend some time and relax during a long layover. Sheba Lounge is an Ethiopian Airlines lounge that is frequented by business class and Star Alliance Gold members.
Other travelers also have Priority Pass lounges. Such lounges are furnished with comfortable seats, free food and beverages, Wi-Fi, and occasionally even showers, a nice break in the hectic terminal.

Where to drink and eat

Food facilities at the Bole airport have become much better. There is a great range of options, including such globally-known fast-food restaurants as McDonald's, to local restaurants where authentic Ethiopian food is served.
Ethiopia is the land of world-famous coffee, and coffee lovers will be particularly happy because one can find numerous cafes where you can enjoy the coffee. Given time, do not miss a traditional coffee ceremony done in a couple of minutes.

Ethiopian Airlines fleet parked at Bole International Airport, Addis Ababa

Bole Addis Ababa International Airport shopping

Duty-free stores are present in Bole, selling cosmetics, electronics, Ethiopian souvenirs, and crafts. You can buy local products such as coffee beans or hand-woven scarves, so visit the local product stores prior to your flight to use these local items as gifts.

Connectivity: Wifi, SIM, and Power points

It is easy to be connected to what is going on at Bole Addis Ababa International Airport. Wi-Fi is provided in the terminal at no charge. Emails and web browsing can be done at good speeds, though patchy at peak times.
To have a more secure connection, or to intend to leave the airport, you can buy a local SIM card and data packages at one of the telecom provider booths in the arrivals hall.
There are also power outlets in the terminal, in case you need to juice up your devices before your next flight.

Exchange of Currency / ATMs

Ethiopian Birr (ETB) is the local currency in Ethiopia. It is easy to exchange money or withdraw cash using the ATMs and currency exchange desks located in the arrivals hall and at various points of the terminal. There are ATMs that take major cards in the vicinity of the baggage claim. The local currency is Ethiopian Birr (ETB). Take some cash, but a credit card.

Security & Check-in

Security and check-in at Bole Addis Ababa International Airport are mostly effective. Nevertheless, the queues may be long during peak hours. You should always get to the airport not least 2-3 hours before your international flight so that you have time to check in, clear security, and reach your gate without being in a hurry. Always carry your boarding pass and passport every time you are at a checkpoint.

Medical & Emergency Services

In the event of health problems, the airport possesses a medical clinic and a pharmacy. In the occurrence of an emergency, the airport staff can help you get the much-needed assistance. The facilities of the new terminal are well-equipped in order to address most circumstances, bringing peace of mind to the travelers.

Bole Addis Ababa International Airport provides amenities for travelers when entering or transiting through the airport

How to Get from Bole Airport to the City Center?

There are several ways to reach downtown Addis Ababa:

• Taxi: The easiest option. Official taxis charge around $10–$15 USD to central hotels.
• Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels offer free pickup.
• Ride-hailing apps: Ride services like RIDE Ethiopia are increasingly popular and offer fixed fares.
• Public Buses: Not recommended unless you're familiar with the city.

The trip to the city center takes 15–30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bole Addis Ababa International Airport

Is Bole Airport safe?
Yes, Bole Addis Ababa International Airport can be regarded as a safe airport. Its security is up to the international norm. Nevertheless, like any big airport, it is always preferable to be vigilant and attentive to what is going on around you and your personal items.

What is the distance between the city and the airport?
Its location is within a radius of 5 to 8 kilometers (3 to 5 miles) in the southeast of the city. Depending on traffic, however, the travel time might be considerable. A good day, the drive will be only 20 minutes, or during peak traffic, it may take up to 45 minutes or more.

Is it possible to sleep in Bole Airport on a layover?
Yes. It has allocated seating and airport hotels, such as the Skylight Hotel, which are located just nearby.

Is Ethiopian Airlines trustworthy?
Ethiopian Airlines is not only popular as one of the reliable and safest airlines in Africa.

May I go out of the airport in case of a long layover?
Yes, but you have to have a transit visa or tourist visa. Enquire at immigration on arrival.

Final Thoughts

Bole Addis Ababa International Airport is not just a transit point, but an entry point to the emerging aviation in Africa. You may stop over or begin your Ethiopian experience, but one thing is certain: get a smooth, contemporary, and culturally rich experience.