City & Urban Experiences

Urban experiences in Ethiopia are defined by a striking contrast between rapid, “smart city” modernization and deeply rooted historical traditions. In the capital, Addis Ababa, a massive 2026 urban renewal project has transformed the landscape into a “pedestrian paradise,” featuring wide, tree-lined corridors, dedicated cycling lanes, and sleek glass skyscrapers in districts like Bole Atlas. Beyond the diplomatic glitz, the city pulses with the aroma of roasting coffee and the energy of Merkato, one of Africa’s largest open-air markets.