Tourism Ministry and INSA launch ‘Visit Ethiopia’ digital platform to boost global visibility

Addis Ababa, July 8, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with the Information Network Security Administration (INSA), has launched a new digital platform titled “Visit Ethiopia”, designed to promote the country’s vast tourism potential and enhance its global visibility.

Unveiled today at a high-level event attended by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa and INSA Director General Tigist Hamid, along with senior government officials and tourism stakeholders, the website aims to serve as a comprehensive gateway for travelers seeking to explore Ethiopia’s cultural, historical, and natural attractions.

The “Visit Ethiopia” platform is equipped with an interactive chatbot that offers real-time assistance to users, helping connect tourists with destinations and service providers across the country. Described as a one-stop digital marketplace, the platform allows visitors to conveniently book hotels, tours, car rentals, and other travel services—bringing the entire tourism value chain to their fingertips.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Selamawit underscored Ethiopia’s unmatched tourism assets—from its UNESCO World Heritage Sites and ancient history to its diverse landscapes and cultures—and stressed the importance of digital innovation in driving sectoral competitiveness.

“The platform will deliver timely, reliable, and high-quality information to both domestic and international audiences while fostering stronger connections among stakeholders in the tourism value chain,” she said, highlighting its potential to enhance the overall visitor experience starting from the planning and booking stages.

INSA Director General Tigist Hamid, for her part, highlighted Ethiopia’s rich cultural tapestry and natural endowments, noting that the digital tool was developed with security, accessibility, and user experience in mind.

“In an era where global travel decisions are increasingly influenced online, this platform is designed to position Ethiopia as a premier and secure destination, leveraging the power of digital technology to tell our story to the world,” she remarked.

Tigist also emphasized that “Visit Ethiopia” contributes to the broader goals of the ‘Digital Ethiopia 2025’ strategy, reaffirming the platform’s role in advancing the country’s digital transformation.

The Ministry of Tourism has indicated that it will continue working closely with key institutions—such as Ethiopian Airlines Group, Immigration and Citizenship Services, and the Ethiopian Customs Commission—to continuously improve the platform and expand its offerings.

The launch of “Visit Ethiopia” reflects a growing national commitment to harnessing innovation for sustainable tourism development and positioning Ethiopia as a top destination in the global tourism market.