If you’re dealing with a long layover or an early morning flight departure at Addis Ababa airport, you might be wondering if it is possible to sleep in the airport. Our guide to sleeping in Addis Ababa airport provides essential information for seasoned airport sleepers and newbies to help travellers arrive prepared for the experience.
We keep this guide up-to-date with the help of airport sleepers who have generously shared their experiences and airport reviews. If you have any tips or photos to contribute, please take a moment to write a review. Your feedback will help us stay informed about the latest advice for future sleepy travellers.
Can I Sleep at Addis Ababa Airport Overnight?
Where Can I Sleep in Addis Ababa Bole Airport?
We have received many reports of travellers experiencing lengthy delays and some cancellations to their flights leaving Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. Unfortunately, this isn’t good news for the sleepy amongst you as there are minimal options for good rest spots while you wait.
If your flight happens to be delayed leaving Addis Ababa, you will hopefully be lucky enough to get your hands on one of the recliners in the terminal building or one of the seats (with armrests). If not, you must find a place to stretch out on the floor.
If your flight has been cancelled, there are hotels nearby that you can book. This will be a much more comfortable option for you.
Are Showers Available?
Showers are available at Addis Ababa Airport, but we don’t know how accessible they are if you are an economy-class passenger. According to reports, showers are available for a price at:
- Sheba Cloud Nine Lounge
- Sheba Platinum & Star Gold Lounge
Is There Anything Open 24 hours at ADD?
Spending a night in the airport usually comes with interrupted sleep and a serious case of midnight munchies. London Cafe is rumoured to be open 24 hours. This is unconfirmed, so you may want to pick up some supplies before the concessions start to close for the night.
Where is the Nearest Hotel?
If you don’t fancy a night of chair sleeping and are in the mood for a bit more luxury, the Ethiopian Skylight In-Terminal Hotel is located inside Terminal 2. Rooms are available in 4, 6, 8, 12 and 24-hour blocks. Guests must leave the hotel 45 minutes before departure to do the process to the boarding gate.
More hotels near the airport include:
- Ethiopian Skylight Hotel » Check Rates
- Bole Skygate Hotel » Check Rates
- Hotel Lobelia » Check Rates
- Best Western Plus Pearl Addis » Check Rates
- Jupiter International Hotel » Check Rates
For more options visit Tripadvisor to find hotel deals at Addis Ababa Airport.
Are There Lounges in Addis Ababa Airport?
Most lounges are reserved for first- and business-class passengers. You can pay to enter the Plaza Premium if you are travelling economy class. None of the lounges have designated sleep rooms or rest areas. Please note this lounge is not guaranteed, as other reports say lounges are not accessible for economy-class passengers. You can learn more about the lounges in our Addis Ababa Airport Guide.
Is it Safe to Sleep at Addis Ababa Airport?
We have not been informed of safety issues at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. However, sleeping in any airport can include a certain level of risk, especially when travelling alone. It’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and the security of your valuables. Here are a few tips:
- Safety First. It’s a good idea to know where the security office is located and look for video cameras where you plan to sleep. You can also ask the security personnel for advice on the safest places to spend the night.
- Don’t Seclude Yourself. If you’re travelling alone, we recommend you stay near other travellers or close to security. This will help you feel more secure and deter potential thieves.
- Hide Your Valuables. It’s also important to hide your valuables. Don’t leave them out in plain view, as this could make you a target for theft. Additionally, if you are a deep sleeper, you may want to padlock your bag to something or sleep with your bag up against a wall to make it harder for someone to access zippers and pockets. We have received reports of sleepers who woke up without their phones and laptop bags. The travellers were left with just their headphones and laptop bag strap.
- Stay Alert. It’s best to stay alert and awake if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable. Drink coffee or other caffeinated beverages to help you stay awake, and remember that you can always catch up on sleep during your flight. These simple precautions can help you enjoy a safe night at the airport.
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