African Union Headquarters Travel Guide: Top Sights in Ethiopia,

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African Union Headquarters- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Modern Urban; Ethiopia; 5 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 1 hours

Addis Ababa hosts the African Union Headquarters, officially known as the African Union Conference Center and Office Complex (AUCC), inaugurated on 28 January 2012 on the site of the former Alem Bekagn prison. The striking 99.9 m tower—designed by the China Architecture and Design Research Group in partnership with Tongji University—stands as the second tallest building in the city and references the 9 September 1999 Sirte Declaration founding date of the AU. The complex includes a 2,505‑seat plenary hall, 32 meeting rooms, and a 20‑story administrative tower, all integrating passive climate control and vertical sun‑shade fins to suit Addis Ababa's equatorial climate. Built with a US $200 million Chinese government donation, its design—a pair of stylized hands embracing—symbolizes Africa–China partnership, while interior art and pan‑African motifs reflect continental identity. As the seat of AU summits, the Commission, and Peace and Security Council offices, the site not only defines Ethiopia's central diplomatic role—but also links modern architecture with Africa's evolving political unity.

Operators offering tours in Ethiopia

Attractions in Addis Ababa

Ethiopia National Museum

4.4

Holy Trinity Cathedral

4.4

Entoto

4.6

Merkato

3.8

Ethnological Museum

4.8

Addis Ababa Museum

St. George's Cathedral

Red Terror Martyrs Memorial Museum

4.4

Reviews of African Union Headquarters

Terence vee

5
Reviewed: 2025-05-01

The African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa stands as a powerful symbol of continental unity and diplomacy. The modern architectural design, blending African elements with global sophistication, reflects the AU’s vision for a progressive and integrated Africa. The facilities are well-maintained, secure, and equipped to host high-level international events. A visit offers a deep sense of the continent’s political aspirations and collaborative spirit.
Akil

5
Reviewed: 2025-02-06

This first trip to Ethiopia was excellent. Learned a lot of great insights about the African Union.
brhane hailu

5
Reviewed: 2024-05-22

That was great experience visiting the African union from outside. They don’t allow visitors to visit inside the office for Tourists, but it’s allowed to take picture from outside.
Leulseged Tesfa

5
Reviewed: 2022-10-09

Beautiful place. Magnificent view. Amazing workers. Went to a symposium and was able to see the place was there for three days and attended the event.
Arinze Uche

5
Reviewed: 2019-12-13

The hub of African Unity. Very large complex... It's too large and getting around can be frustrating without a car. It's also easy to get lost so always ask questions. Staff here are nice and will gladly help