Nestled in the vibrant heart of Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel stands as a monumental testament to modern hospitality.
As Africa’s largest hotel, it redefines luxury and comfort with its impressive 1,024 rooms and suites, catering to a diverse array of travelers from around the globe.
Opened in 2019 and recently expanded in 2023, this remarkable establishment is strategically located just minutes from Bole International Airport, making it an ideal gateway for both business and leisure visitors.
Ownership
Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest and most profitable aviation group, owns the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel.
The hotel was officially inaugurated on January 27, 2019, during a grand ceremony attended by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and African Union Chairperson Moussa Faki.
Initially constructed at a cost of $65 million, the hotel was part of Ethiopian Airlines’ broader strategy to enhance its service offerings and complement its growing network of global travelers.
In May 2023, Ethiopian Airlines unveiled the second phase of expansion, increasing the hotel’s capacity to a staggering 1,024 rooms.
This phase, which cost an additional $155 million, cemented its position as the largest hotel in Africa.
The Ethiopian Skylight Hotel not only caters to travelers but also addresses the increasing demand for world-class facilities in Addis Ababa.
Location
The Ethiopian Skylight Hotel occupies a prime location just a short walk from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, the busiest hub in Africa.
This strategic positioning provides unmatched convenience for transit passengers, airline crew, and international business travelers.
The proximity to the airport also makes it ideal for hosting high-profile events and meetings, as well as providing short-term accommodation for those with layovers or connecting flights.
Accommodation
The hotel offers 1,024 modern rooms and suites, designed to meet the needs of international travelers.
Each room is thoughtfully furnished with contemporary amenities to provide guests with the utmost comfort.
In addition to standard rooms, the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel offers executive suites and apartments, accommodating both short-term visitors and long-term residents.
Guests experience a combination of luxury and practicality, with panoramic views of the airport and the vibrant cityscape of Addis Ababa enhancing their stay.
Amenities
Ethiopian Skylight Hotel is renowned for its extensive amenities, tailored to appeal to business and leisure travelers alike.
The hotel features 19 food and beverage outlets, where guests can enjoy a variety of international cuisines.
Among these is the largest Chinese restaurant in East Africa, catering to the region’s growing Chinese community and international visitors.
Additional dining options include Italian, Ethiopian, Asian, and Arabian menus, along with coffee houses and bars that offer breathtaking views of the city.
For business and events, the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel is unparalleled.
It boasts a grand ballroom capable of hosting up to 5,000 guests, making it the ideal venue for large conferences, corporate events, and weddings.
There are also eight fully equipped meeting rooms featuring the latest audio-visual technology to cater to business travelers’ needs.
Recreational facilities at the hotel include a Green Apple Health Club, which offers a fully equipped gym, an outdoor heated swimming pool, and a Thai spa with massage services.
Guests looking for leisure activities can also take advantage of a mini-golf course, a beauty salon, and relaxation areas throughout the hotel, ensuring a memorable stay for all visitors.
Services
The Ethiopian Skylight Hotel provides a variety of premium services to enhance guest experiences.
A 24-hour airport shuttle service ensures smooth and efficient transfers between the hotel and the airport, a particularly useful feature for travelers with tight schedules.
High-speed, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, meeting the connectivity needs of business travelers and leisure guests.
Security remains a top priority at the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel.
State-of-the-art surveillance systems, round-the-clock security personnel, and adherence to international safety standards ensure that guests can enjoy peace of mind during their stay.
Integration with Ethiopian Airlines
The Ethiopian Skylight Hotel is seamlessly integrated into Ethiopian Airlines’ operations, serving as the primary accommodation option for transit passengers and airline crew.
The partnership enables a smooth experience for those traveling with Ethiopian Airlines, especially for extended layovers.
The hotel is also a key partner in Ethiopian Airlines’ ShebaMiles loyalty program.
Guests can earn and redeem miles for stays, dining, and services within the hotel, strengthening its value proposition for frequent travelers.
This integration reflects Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to offering comprehensive travel experiences beyond air transport.