Addis Ababa is the capital city of Ethiopia and its largest urban centre. It is located in the central part of the country, at an altitude of about 2,355 metres above sea level. The city serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub of Ethiopia. It was founded in 1886 by Emperor Menelik II and has since grown into a major metropolitan area.

Addis Ababa is home to the African Union headquarters, making it a key centre for continental diplomacy. Several international organisations, including the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), have their offices in the city. The government of Ethiopia is based in Addis Ababa, with important institutions such as the Presidential Palace and the Ethiopian Parliament.

The city has a population of over 5 million people. It is a diverse city with many ethnic and cultural communities. Amharic is the official language, but several other languages are spoken. The economy of Addis Ababa is supported by industries such as trade, manufacturing, and services. It has a growing technology sector and is an important financial hub in East Africa.

Addis Ababa has several educational institutions, including Addis Ababa University, which is the oldest and largest university in Ethiopia. The city has historical and cultural landmarks such as the National Museum of Ethiopia, which houses the famous fossil remains of Lucy, an early hominid. Other notable sites include the Holy Trinity Cathedral, St. George's Cathedral, and Meskel Square.

Transport in the city includes an expanding road network, a light rail system, and an international airport. Addis Ababa hosts annual events such as the Great Ethiopian Run and the Meskel Festival. The city has a growing tourism industry, with visitors attracted to its history, culture, and unique geography.

• As of 2024, Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, has an estimated population of approximately 5.7 million people.
• Situated at an elevation of about 2,355 metres (7,726 feet) above sea level, it is among the highest capital cities globally and the highest in Africa.
• Unlike many African cities, Addis Ababa did not originate from a traditional village. It began as a military encampment housing the palace of Emperor Menelik II in the late 19th century. Over time, civilians settled around the encampment, leading to the city's development.
• Ethiopia, with Addis Ababa as its centre, successfully resisted colonisation attempts. During the First Italo-Ethiopian War (1895–1896), Ethiopians rallied in Addis Ababa under Emperor Menelik II and defeated the Italian forces. The emperor's mausoleum remains a significant site in the city.
• Despite its proximity to the equator, Addis Ababa experiences mild temperatures due to its high elevation. The average annual temperature is approximately 16°C (61°F). Even during the warmest months, temperatures rarely exceed 25°C (77°F), with an all-time recorded high of 30.6°C (87.1°F) on 26 February 2019.
• The city is home to Merkato, reputedly Africa's largest open-air market, sprawling over a vast area and offering a wide array of goods. Visitors are advised to navigate its bustling alleys with care, as it is easy to get lost in the maze of stalls and crowds.
• Addis Ababa also hosts several notable cultural institutions, including the National Museum of Ethiopia, which houses the famous fossil remains of Lucy, an early hominid. Other significant sites are the Holy Trinity Cathedral, the Ethiopian Ethnological Museum, and the Addis Ababa Museum.
• In recent developments, Ethiopia has banned the importation of gas-powered private vehicles in favour of electric cars to promote green technology and reduce fuel subsidies.

Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia, operates as a chartered city with a distinct administrative structure. The city's governance is headed by a mayor, who oversees the overall administration and implementation of policies. The mayor is supported by various directors and officials responsible for different bureaus and departments within the city government.

The city is divided into 11 sub-cities, each functioning as an administrative unit to manage local affairs. These sub-cities are further subdivided into woredas, which are the smallest administrative units in the city's structure. Each woreda is managed by an administrator and has an elected council responsible for local governance and community services.

The Addis Ababa City Council, comprising 138 members elected every five years, serves as the legislative body of the city. The council is responsible for enacting laws, approving budgets, and overseeing the executive functions of the city administration. The council works closely with the mayor's office to ensure that policies and regulations align with the city's development goals and the needs of its residents.

In terms of judicial administration, Addis Ababa has a structured court system that includes First Instance Courts, High Courts, and a Supreme Court. These courts handle civil, criminal, and petty offense cases within the city's jurisdiction. Additionally, Social Courts at the kebele level address minor disputes and claims, providing accessible legal recourse for residents.

The city administration also emphasizes community participation and local governance. Kebeles, or neighbourhood associations, play a crucial role in facilitating communication between residents and the city administration. They are involved in implementing policies at the grassroots level and ensuring that community concerns are addressed promptly.

As of 2024, Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, continues to exhibit a diverse economic landscape. The city's economy is primarily driven by sectors such as trade, manufacturing, services, and agriculture.

Trade and Commerce: A significant portion of Addis Ababa's workforce is engaged in trade and commerce, reflecting the city's role as a central hub for business activities in Ethiopia.

Manufacturing and Industry: The manufacturing sector remains robust, with numerous individuals employed in various industries, including textiles, food processing, and construction materials. The presence of several industrial parks, such as the Lemi Bole Industrial Park, underscores the city's commitment to industrial growth.

Services Sector: Services, encompassing civil administration, education, health, and social services, play a vital role in the city's economy. The hospitality industry, including hotels and catering services, has seen growth, catering to both residents and visitors.

Transport and Communication: The transport and communication sector is pivotal, facilitating movement and information exchange within the city and beyond. Addis Ababa's strategic location makes it a focal point for transportation networks.

Agriculture and Urban Farming: While predominantly urban, Addis Ababa incorporates agricultural activities. Residents engage in animal husbandry and cultivate gardens. Annually, approximately 677 hectares of land are irrigated, yielding around 129,880 quintals of vegetables, contributing to local food security.

Urban Development: The city has experienced a construction surge, with numerous high-rise buildings and shopping malls emerging. This development reflects ongoing efforts to modernize infrastructure and accommodate the growing population.

Safety and Crime: Addis Ababa is considered relatively safe, with common crimes including pickpocketing, scams, and minor burglaries. Recent data indicates a moderate level of crime, with a crime index of 50.63. Efforts are ongoing to enhance public safety and reduce crime rates.

As of 2025, Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, is undergoing significant infrastructural development to modernise the city and improve the quality of life for its residents.

Urban Development Projects: The Addis Ababa City Corridor Project, initiated in December 2022, aims to upgrade key routes and enhance connectivity. Scheduled for completion in 2025, this project includes the construction of bicycle lanes, pedestrian walkways, improved roads, parks, libraries, and additional housing. The second phase, launched in October 2024, covers 2,879 hectares and involves building 477 km of roads, comprising 240 km of asphalt roads and 237 km of pedestrian walkways. Over 200 public recreational spaces and parking centres are also being established. To promote eco-friendly transportation, 58 electric vehicle charging stations and more than 100 km of bike lanes are being introduced.

Transportation Infrastructure: The city is enhancing its connectivity through the construction of new expressways. Plans include four expressways averaging 300 km each, linking Addis Ababa to major cities such as Dessie, Jimma, Debre Markos, and Nekemte. These roads aim to improve trade routes and reduce travel times.

Green Mobility Initiatives: In early 2024, Ethiopia became the first country to ban the import of petrol and diesel vehicles, encouraging the adoption of electric cars. To support this transition, Ethio Telecom has launched AI-powered ultra-fast EV charging stations in Addis Ababa, facilitating efficient charging solutions for electric vehicle users.

Real Estate and Urbanisation: Rapid urbanisation has led to a growing real estate market, with increased interest in suburban areas around Addis Ababa. Infrastructure projects, such as road expansions and public transport improvements, have made these areas more accessible and appealing to families seeking larger living spaces.

Challenges: While these developments aim to modernise the city, they have also resulted in the displacement of thousands of residents due to the demolition of older neighbourhoods. Balancing urban development with the preservation of community spaces remains a critical concern.