78open jobs
23organisations hiring
245violent events in 3 months
1,162deaths (estimate)
To prepare a mission or a new post: the essential context, region by region. This briefing does not replace your organisation's security briefing on arrival.
federal parliamentary republic
Oromo 35.8%, Amhara 24.1%, Somali 7.2%, Tigray 5.7%, Sidama 4.1%, Guragie 2.6%, Welaita 2.3%, Afar 2.2%, Silte 1.3%, Kefficho 1.2%, other 13.5% (2022 est.)
Oromo (official regional working language) 33.8%, Amharic (official national language) 29.3%, Somali (official regional working language) 6.2%, Tigrigna (Tigrinya) (official regional working language) 5.9%, Sidamo 4%, Wolaytta 2.2%, Gurage 2%, Afar (official regional working language) 1.7%, Hadiyya 1.7%, Gamo 1.5%, Gedeo 1.3%, Opuuo 1.2%, Kafa 1.1%, other 8.1%, English (2007 est.)
Ethiopian Orthodox 43.8%, Muslim 31.3%, Protestant 22.8%, Catholic 0.7%, traditional 0.6%, other 0.8% (2016 est.)
Country profiles: The World Factbook (CIA), public domain, last edition (2025-2026).
low-income, fast-growing Horn of Africa economy; widespread poverty and food insecurity worsened by conflict and environmental factors; landlocked with tensions over seaport access; development aid supporting reforms to boost private-sector growth and financial stability; challenge of creating jobs for growing labor force
135.5 MPopulation2025
24.1 %Urban population2025
$933GDP per capita2025
9.8 %GDP growth2025
13.2 %Inflation2025
38.6 %Extreme poverty (international line)2021
3.3 %Unemployment2025
60.5 %Adult literacy2022
21.9 %Internet users2024
56.6 %Access to electricity2024
2,378,000internally displaced people2025
1,010,466refugees hosted2025
112,987asylum seekers2025
312,831refugees and asylum seekers from the country2025
Indicators: World Bank (CC BY 4.0); refugees and displaced people: UNHCR Refugee Data Finder. Latest available year for each figure.
Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF; aka Federal Defense Force of Ethiopia, FDRE): Army, Air Force, Naval Force, Defense Cyber Main Directorate (2025)
al-Shabaab
Party names as coded by UCDP, July – September 2026. "Government of …" refers to State forces.
| Actor | Events | Deaths |
|---|---|---|
| Government of Ethiopia | 217 | 1,035 |
| EPFAS | 84 | 428 |
| Fano | 80 | 324 |
| OLA | 19 | 105 |
| TPLF | 18 | 110 |
| Government of Sudan | 2 | 1 |
| TPF | 2 | 0 |
| GFNF | 2 | 6 |
| Argobba | 2 | 4 |
Informative list, to be complemented by your organisation's security analysis and NGO security forums.
UK government (FCDO) travel advice. Some guidance is aimed at British nationals; always follow your organisation's instructions.
FCDO advises against all travel to within:
FCDO advises against all travel to Tigray region.
FCDO advises against all travel to Amhara region.
FCDO advises against all travel to within 20km of the border with Eritrea
FCDO advises against all travel to within 50km of the boundary with Tigray region.
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the rest of Afar.
FCDO advises against all travel to Gambela region.
FCDO advises against all travel to:
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
FCDO advises against all travel to within:
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
FCDO advises against all travel to within 10km of the borders with South Sudan and Kenya including the shores of Lake Turkana.
FCDO advises against all travel to:
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the rest of Benishangul-Gumuz region.
Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel to these regions.
There is ongoing fighting between Ethiopian federal government forces and forces opposed to the federal government in northern Ethiopia. Tensions between Eritrea and Ethiopia are high and the security situation may change with little notice. Some flights are suspended and flights across northern Ethiopia may also be suspended or cancelled at short notice.
There have been some threats from armed groups against Alula Aba Nega Airport, Mekele.
If you are in the Tigray region, shelter in place. You should also:
Staff at the British Embassy in Addis Ababa cannot offer support in person in areas of Ethiopia where FCDO advises against travel.
If you need urgent help from the UK government, for example if you’ve been arrested or you’re concerned about forced marriage, contact the British Embassy in Addis Ababa.
If you’re in the UK and are concerned about a British national in Ethiopia, call FCDO on 020 7008 5000.
No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
Follow FCDO:
Organised violence events recorded by UCDP, July – September 2026.
By month: July 59 · August 67 · September 119
| Region | Events | Deaths | Civilians | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amhara | 100 | 583 | 10 | stable |
| Oromiya | 58 | 247 | 139 | ▼ down |
| Tigray | 55 | 254 | 120 | ▲ up |
| Afar | 15 | 2 | 2 | ▲ up |
| Benishangul-Gumuz | 5 | 15 | 13 | ▼ down |
| Central Ethiopia regional | 4 | 33 | 29 | ▲ up |
| South Ethiopia regional | 4 | 10 | 4 | ▲ up |
| Gambella | 2 | 16 | 0 | new |
There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Ethiopia.
There is a threat of terrorism across Ethiopia. Attacks could target westerners, including British nationals. These could occur at any time including at religious events, public holidays or celebrations. Attacks could be indiscriminate and occur in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:
Large crowds are common on key national and religious dates, including:
Parts of the country also have local festivals (often celebrating saints’ days) which can lead to large gatherings.
Terrorist group Al-Shabaab, based in Somalia, poses a threat across East Africa. The group threatens all countries who have military forces in Somalia, including Ethiopia. In 2022, Al-Shabaab attacked the Somali towns of Aato, Yeed and Washaaqo, near the border with Ethiopia. Al-Shabaab has said it intends to commit further attacks in the area.
There have been reports of attacks, including possible drone attacks, on military installations in several locations across Ethiopia, including Addis Ababa. Further attacks are possible. Do not approach debris resulting from military activity, or touch unusual objects. Stay away from military sites and installations, and follow the advice of local authorities.
Unrest can start with no notice. There are ongoing armed clashes between ethnic groups and with security forces in much of the country. Foreigners have not been targeted, but can get caught up in events. You should:
The security situation in northern Ethiopia may deteriorate quickly. There have been renewed clashes between insurgent groups and the Ethiopian military in parts of Afar, and Tigray, including reports of drone strikes which have increased in frequency since August 2026.
Since spring 2023 there has been significant conflict in Amhara region, between Amhara militia groups (Fano) and the Ethiopian authorities, as well as opportunistic crime and banditry.
There have been increased tensions and violence between armed groups and the security forces across Oromia region.
Civil unrest, including protests and strikes, may happen with little or no notice. This can cause:
In the past some protests have escalated into serious violence.
Travellers may face increased scrutiny, particularly if they are of Amhara, Tigrayan or Oromo ethnicity. Officials may carry out direct police operations including road checkpoints and door-to-door calls. Security services sometimes conduct house searches without authorisation.
If security officials request access to your accommodation, check the credentials of the officials and then comply with their requests. The authorities have increased security checks at Bole International Airport and there are reports of ethnic Tigrayans being prevented from boarding flights. In all cases, avoid confrontation and follow the instructions of the authorities.
There have been a small number of cases of arbitrary detention of British nationals in Ethiopia. The risk may increase if tensions are heightened around major events, or in locations that are sensitive for security reasons. Carry a paper copy of your passport and contact details of the British Embassy in Addis Ababa (phone: +251 11 617 0100) in case you are questioned or detained.
The Ethiopian authorities do not always notify embassies when they detain foreign nationals. If you are detained, ask family or friends to contact the British Embassy. The authorities may not permit embassy officials adequate access to detainees.
Mugging (violent theft or theft with the threat of violence) is on the rise. There have been a number of incidents of sexual harassment of women.
Take care of your belongings when visiting crowded public places, especially at night. There is a risk of petty theft around Bole International Airport, particularly pickpockets and bag-snatchers.
Be vigilant if strangers approach you. Criminal groups, often including children and young people, sometimes attempt to steal phones, wallets or other valuables by jostling and pickpocketing. They may use distraction techniques including begging, spitting, spilling food and drink, and feigning illness.
There has been an increase in reported crime against foreign nationals and Ethiopian nationals in these areas of Addis Ababa:
Attacks have included knifepoint robberies and victims being choked unconscious. Do not travel alone in these areas if possible. Be cautious if travelling on foot. Consider using road transport where possible, especially after dark.
There is a risk of bag and jewellery snatching from vehicles at traffic lights and of thefts from parked cars.
When travelling in vehicles:
If threatened, hand over valuables without resistance.
Kidnapping is widespread in parts of Ethiopia, with incidents in the Oromia, Amhara and Somali regions and on the southern border with Kenya.
There have been a number of recent kidnappings in Amhara and Oromia, especially within the Adama special zone south of Addis Ababa, and western areas of Oromia region, particularly West Wollega, East Wollega and Qellem Wollega zones.
Possible targets for criminal kidnap include people engaged in humanitarian aid work, journalism or business sectors. The motivation for kidnappings is extortion, with criminals demanding high sums for ransom.
When arranging meetings, use a secure location. Avoid regular patterns of travel and aim to only travel during daylight hours. If you go to areas where the FCDO advises against travel, you will be at extreme risk.
There is a continued risk of landmines and other unexploded ordinances following the end of the 2020-2022 northern Ethiopia conflict.
The main areas of risk are:
Most incidents involve farmers in rural areas but be cautious and avoid traveling off the main roads in the affected areas.
Always carry a copy of the photo page of your passport and your visa and entry stamp. It is not a legal requirement to carry the original.
Ethiopia is religiously diverse and largely tolerant. However, many people are devout in their faith. Take care to not offend local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Dress conservatively and observe local customs. Take particular care if travelling:
Ramadan is individually observed but there are no official regulations imposed.
Health and safety precautions like life jackets in boats or protective railings at historical sites are rarely in place in Ethiopia.
Traditionally Ethiopia has a different calendar and way of expressing time than are widely used internationally.
Most documents issued by hotels and larger organisations, including airline tickets, use the international calendar and clock. However:
Ethiopia is a cash-based society. Banking facilities, including card payments and ATMs are limited, and unreliable, especially outside of cities. Make sure you have enough cash before leaving cities.
Drug offences are treated seriously in Ethiopia. Possession of drugs can lead to prison sentences of 5 to 10 years and potentially large fines.
Khat is legal in Ethiopia, but it is illegal to take it out of the country. If you’re found with it in your baggage, the authorities are likely to prosecute you.
There are no restrictions on buying or possessing alcohol. This includes the predominantly Muslim regions although it may be more difficult to obtain.
Women are expected to dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.
Same-sex acts (applying to both sexes) are illegal and carry penalties of between 1 and 15 years in prison. Local authorities intimidate and detain owners and clients of hotels, bars and restaurants in Addis Ababa where same-sex activity is alleged to take place.
The public are not generally accepting of same-sex relationships. Some religious leaders have called for violence against the LGBT+ community. Showing affection in public may receive unwanted attention. It is dangerous to be openly (or covertly) LGBT+ in Ethiopia, and can lead to great personal risk.
Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
It is illegal to take photos:
The use of drones is subject to permission from the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority and Information Network and Security Agency.
Fuel availability is currently limited across Ethiopia, with long queues and shortages at petrol stations reported nationwide. This may cause transport disruption and delays, particularly for travel outside Addis Ababa. If you are planning to travel within Ethiopia, check arrangements carefully with your tour operator or transport provider and allow extra time for journeys.
If you are planning to drive in Ethiopia, see information on driving abroad.
You can use your UK driving licence to drive for up to 2 weeks. To drive for longer, contact the Ethiopian Ministry of Transport and Logistics to apply for an Ethiopian driving licence.
Driving standards and vehicle maintenance are often poor and there are frequent traffic accidents, especially in Addis Ababa and on the Addis Ababa-Djibouti road.
Drivers involved in car accidents can face severe punishments, including custodial sentences and fines. If you’re involved in a traffic accident, stay in your vehicle and call the local police. Avoid confrontation and wait for police to arrive to deal with any issues.
GPS signal is unreliable within Addis Ababa and nearby areas. You can download maps for use offline, and to familiarise yourself with routes before you travel.
Only use buses or taxis from the airport that have been organised by your hotel or travel company. If you are booking your own taxi, choose yellow or app-based taxis rather than the blue and white ones.
Avoid driving after dark anywhere outside Addis Ababa. Vehicles often have no lights and livestock may stray onto the roads.
Mobile networks are not consistent or reliable. The authorities may close down networks with no notice. You should consider travelling in convoy with at least one other vehicle.
Carry food and water, and ensure your vehicle is properly prepared and equipped. Medical facilities outside the capital are extremely limited so carry a comprehensive medical pack.
Local demonstrations have led to temporary road closures, although not all social media reports of such disruptions are accurate. If unsure, contact local authorities or reputable tour operators in the areas you’re travelling to.
If you come to a roadblock, follow advice of police or army personnel if they are present. If you encounter an unattended roadblock, turn around and do not attempt to pass it.
Always leave details of your travel itinerary with a reliable person.
There have been instances where buses from one region have been attacked when passing through another.
There is a risk of earthquakes and earth tremors. You should:
The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.
This section has safety advice for regions of Ethiopia. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.
You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice for Ethiopia.
All civilian flights to and from Tigray region have been suspended. Foreign nationals are currently unable to travel to airports in Afar regional state due to restrictions by the Ethiopian authorities. Check with your operator before travel.
The Ethiopian authorities may implement travel restrictions anywhere in the country at short notice.
FCDO advises against all travel to within:
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
FCDO advises against all travel to Tigray region.
There is ongoing fighting between Ethiopian federal government forces and forces opposed to the federal government in the Tigray region. Some flights are suspended and flights across northern Ethiopia may also be suspended or cancelled at short notice.
If you are in the Tigray region, shelter in place. You should also:
There have been some threats from armed groups against Alula Aba Nega Airport, Mekele. As soon as you judge it is safe to do so, leave the Tigray region using commercial means.
FCDO advises against all travel to all of Amhara regional state.
There have been violent protests and clashes between security forces in Amhara since April 2023, resulting in an unknown number of deaths including of 11 aid workers.
Violence has increased due to conflict between local militia groups (Fano) and the security forces. Since spring 2023 there has been significant conflict in Amhara region, between Amhara militia groups (Fano) and the Ethiopian authorities, as well as opportunistic crime and banditry. Movement is heavily restricted, arbitrary detention is a risk and the security situation is very volatile.
There have been reports of incidents along the Addis Ababa to Bahir Dar (A3) road, including armed men attacking vehicles. Attacks usually take place in the early hours when visibility is poor. Be highly cautious and avoid travelling when visibility is poor. The A3 road can be subject to increased checkpoints and closure by the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF).
Some flights across northern Ethiopia could be suspended or cancelled at short notice. Domestic and international land borders may be closed. Mobile networks and internet connections may be disrupted. You should monitor local media for further information and comply with local authority instructions.
There have been sporadic, violent clashes between armed groups in Amhara and in areas bordering Oromia region, including in urban centres. As these are not contained to specific areas, be cautious when travelling throughout Amhara. Situations can escalate quickly.
Political disputes in the districts (‘woredas’) of Tsegede, Mirab Armacho and Tach Armacho have previously turned violent. Clashes have occurred around Chilga Woreda and Central Gondar zone, with reports of fatalities including civilians. While attacks are mostly related to inter-ethnic disputes and foreigners have not been targeted, attacks can occur at any time with significant risk of being caught up in violence. If you’re travelling in the area, monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities and your tour operator.
There has been an increase in roadblocks across Amhara region.
FCDO advises against all travel to the parts of Afar region within 20km of the border with Eritrea and within 50km of the Tigray region, and advises against all but essential travel to the rest of Afar.
There are irregular armed clashes between ethnic groups in Afar region and Somali Regional State, in particular along the main Addis Ababa to Djibouti road (A1) and the surrounding areas. Attacks are sporadic and infrequent, but may involve roadblocks and vehicles being targeted.
FCDO advises against all travel to Gambela region.
Large-scale violence, inter-communal clashes and armed attacks occur regularly. While foreigners have not been targeted, there’s a significant risk of being caught up in violence.
FCDO advises against all travel to:
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
There have been reports of armed clashes between regional security forces from Oromia and Somali regions in the area of the border between the two regions, including in Moyale town in October 2026.
Violence has increased due to conflict in Oromia, and there may be disruption to travel, and to the operation of businesses and services.
In West and North Shewa zone there have been reports of attacks on vehicles travelling on the A1 road, between Adama and Awash, though not targeting international travellers.
There were reports in October 2023 of air strikes against armed groups in West Shewa. These could take place in a range of locations without notice. You should be extremely cautious when travelling in the West Shewa zone, particularly in rural areas.
There have been repeated and serious instances of violence in West Wollega, East Wollega, Kellem Wollega and Horo Gudru Wollega. This has included clashes between armed groups and security forces, violent crime and roadside attacks.
There are increased tensions and violence between armed groups and the security forces across Oromia region, particularly Shewa, Haraghe and Guji zones. Avoid military, police and security installations. Be extremely cautious and follow advice of local authorities.
Since late 2022, there has been an increase in incidents between armed groups in Oromia. These have mainly been reported in rural areas and areas bordering Amhara region. Incidents are not contained to specific areas. Be cautious when travelling, particularly between urban centres. The situation can escalate quickly.
Some protests have turned violent and resulted in casualties. There has also been severe disruption to road travel including major roads to and from Addis Ababa.
Protests and demonstrations occur periodically in towns across Oromia region. Towns in the Wollega and Shewa zones, and West Arsi zone, including Ambo, Wolissa, Nekemte and Shashemene, have been particularly affected. Demonstrations have also taken place elsewhere including in the Bale zone to the south-east.
In some instances, international investors have been threatened, although the British Embassy is not aware of foreign tourists having been targeted.
FCDO advises against all travel to within:
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
There have been reports of armed clashes between regional security forces from Oromia and Somali regions in the area of the border between the two regions, including in Moyale town in October 2026.
There are irregular armed clashes between ethnic groups in Afar Region and Somali Regional State, in particular along the main Addis Ababa to Djibouti road (A1) and the surrounding areas. Attacks are sporadic and infrequent, but may involve roadblocks with vehicles being targeted.
There is local instability, lawlessness, military activity and a general risk of banditry in Somali region. Insurgent groups, some affiliated with terrorist organisations, have clashed with government forces. Foreigners have been caught up in the violence or targeted. There have also been attacks on staff working for international non-governmental organisations.
FCDO advises against all travel to within 10km of the borders with South Sudan and Kenya including the shores of Lake Turkana.
Due to recent regional cluster changes, there have been instances of civil unrest as zones increasingly demand their own regional statehood. There has been civil unrest in Gurage zone in the newly formed Central region. A number of incidents have turned violent.
FCDO advises against all travel to:
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the rest of Benishangul-Gumuz region.
There is risk of armed clashes at near the border with Sudan.
Local tensions have led to frequent and unpredictable violent clashes, including reported abductions and deaths. There have been instances of civil unrest in and around Assosa.
67.6yearsLife expectancy2024
44.5per 1,000 live birthsUnder-5 mortality2024
195per 100,000 live birthsMaternal mortality2023
138.5per 1,000 people at riskMalaria (new cases)2024
0.14per 1,000 peoplePhysicians2023
55.6 %Basic drinking water access2024
Source: World Health Organization, Disease Outbreak News (links for information).
Before you travel check that:
This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
Dial 907 and ask for an ambulance.
Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
See what health risks you’ll face in Ethiopia, including:
On 26 January 2026, the Ethiopian government and WHO officially declared the end of the Marburg virus disease outbreak. This announcement came after no new confirmed cases were reported for consecutive 42 days.
Malaria is common in areas of the country up to 2,000 metres above sea level. Addis Ababa sits at 2,400m but a number of sites popular with tourists are below 2,000m.
Bilharzia is present in the vast majority of lakes in Ethiopia – check before swimming.
Water-borne diseases are common. Drink or use only boiled or bottled water and avoid ice in drinks.
There is an ongoing outbreak of cholera in the south of Ethiopia, and new cases have been reported in the north-west of the country.
Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Ethiopia, including Addis Ababa. TravelHealthPro’s altitude sickness guidance has more information.
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
Only private hospitals in Addis Ababa offer a reasonable standard of basic care for minor health problems. Dentistry is especially scarce. Ambulance services are also limited. Outside the capital, medical facilities are extremely poor. Carry a comprehensive medical pack when travelling out of Addis Ababa.
FCDO has a list of medical providers in Ethiopia where some staff will speak English.
Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.
Passport Index Data (passportindex.org), MIT licence. Indicative, for a tourist stay; always check with the embassy or consulate. (17 February 2026)
This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Ethiopia’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Ethiopia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how Ethiopia’s entry requirements apply to you, contact the Ethiopian Embassy in the UK.
Your passport must be:
When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
You must have a visa to visit Ethiopia for tourism or business.
You do not need a visa if you have a valid Ethiopian Diplomatic ID Card, Ethiopian Temporary Residents Permit or Ethiopian Origin ID (Yellow Cards).
We recommend UK nationals apply online for tourist and business visas before arrival.
You will need to provide a scanned colour copy of your passport and a colour passport sized photo. Get a 30-day single entry tourist visa from the official Ethiopian e-visa platform.
If you visit Ethiopia on a tourist visa, you cannot take employment, including voluntary employment. If you break the rules, you can get heavy fines or be imprisoned.
Check what type of visa you need for business, work, study or other reasons. Journalists will also need to obtain Media Arrival entry clearance via the Arrival Clearance Portal.
You can apply for an official extension of 30 or 90 more days before your visa expires. You need to go in person to the Head Office of the Immigration and Citizenship Service in Addis Ababa.
Leave the country before your visa or your extension expires. The penalty for overstaying is 30 US dollars a day. You will not be allowed to leave until you pay in full.
To enter Ethiopia, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.
For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Ethiopia guide.
You may need a yellow fever certificate for onward travel to some other countries, due to the risk of yellow fever in Ethiopia.
Travellers arriving from some countries are required to complete an Ethiopian Ministry of Health survey before arrival, if they are visiting Ethiopia or making a transit stop which includes movement outside of the airport. Check with your airline if the country you are traveling from requires this.
You could be required to undergo testing or treatment if you have symptoms.
Travellers from some countries may be required to complete a health declaration form if they are visiting or transiting through Ethiopia. Check with the airline if the country you are travelling from requires this.
There are strict rules about goods that you can take into or out of Ethiopia.
If you plan to take in specialist equipment, such as filming or audio equipment, the Ethiopian Embassy in London advises you check with your tour operator or local contact before you travel as special customs regulations may apply.
Contact the Ethiopian Embassy Press Office for more information and advice.
You can carry up to 3,000 Ethiopian birr when entering or leaving Ethiopia. An exception is when travelling to Djibouti from Ethiopia, in which case you can carry up to 10,000 birr. If you are found with more than the legal limits, customs authorities can seize your cash and you could get a prison sentence.
When you enter or leave Ethiopia, you must declare any cash over 10,000 US dollars (or equivalent in other currencies). Residents of Ethiopia, including resident British nationals, must declare any cash over 4,000 US dollars.
If you leave Ethiopia with cash above these amounts, you must show officials the customs declaration form you got when you entered Ethiopia, or the bank advice note if you purchased currency locally.
If entering Ethiopia through a land border you must declare cash worth over 500 US dollars.
Keep your receipt if you change currency into birr. Without a receipt you are unlikely to be able to change leftover money back at the end of your trip.
Khat is legal in Ethiopia but it is illegal to take it out of the country. Customs officials regularly search luggage at Addis Ababa Bole Airport. Anyone found with khat is likely to be prosecuted.
You need an export certificate to take antiques out of the country. If you do not have one, border officials are likely to confiscate your items if they find them. You could be arrested and prosecuted by the authorities.
It is illegal to buy or possess ivory – even your own pieces brought in with you. British nationals have had ivory jewellery confiscated and the authorities have imposed fines of up to 25,000 birr (about £220).
It’s illegal to import or export satellite phones, binoculars or drones to or from Ethiopia without prior approval from the Customs and Information Network and Security Agency. Get advice from your travel provider on permissions required.
Unapproved items can be confiscated by authorities. You may be able to collect them on departure from Ethiopia, but this is not guaranteed.
Before you arrive, register with the coordination bodies: they share alerts, cluster meetings and useful contacts.
Clusters: health, nutrition, protection, WASH, food security, shelter, education, logistics, emergency telecommunications and CCCM. OCHA publishes their meetings and contacts in each country where they are activated.
Organisations hiring in the country, based on open jobs on the site:
See jobs in EthiopiaFunding ↗Tenders ↗Train in field security
Violence over the last 3 months, jobs and passages of official advice that mention the region.
100 events · 583 deaths · 10 civilians
FCDO advises against all travel to Amhara region.
Since spring 2023 there has been significant conflict in Amhara region, between Amhara militia groups (Fano) and the Ethiopian authorities, as well as opportunistic crime and banditry.
58 events · 247 deaths · 139 civilians
55 events · 254 deaths · 120 civilians
FCDO advises against all travel to Tigray region.
FCDO advises against all travel to within 50km of the boundary with Tigray region.
15 events · 2 deaths · 2 civilians
FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the rest of Afar.
The security situation in northern Ethiopia may deteriorate quickly. There have been renewed clashes between insurgent groups and the Ethiopian military in parts of Afar, and Tigray, including reports of drone strikes which have increased in frequency since August 2026.
No organised violence recorded over the period.
10km of the border with Kenya, except the Addis Ababa - Moyale road and Moyale, where we advise against all but essential travel.
West Wollega zone (including the main Addis Ababa to Gambela road), East Wollega zone, Kellem Wollega and Horo Gudru Wollega
No organised violence recorded over the period.
100km of the Ethiopian border with Somalia and Kenya in Ethiopia’s Somali region, and within 30km of the Ethiopian border with Somalia in Fafan zone, except the border town and crossing at Wajale, and the principal road between Jijiga and Wajale
Terrorist group Al-Shabaab, based in Somalia, poses a threat across East Africa. The group threatens all countries who have military forces in Somalia, including Ethiopia. In 2022, Al-Shabaab attacked the Somali towns of Aato, Yeed and Washaaqo, near the border with Ethiopia. Al-Shabaab has said it intends to commit further attacks in the area.
No organised violence recorded over the period.
No organised violence recorded over the period.
No organised violence recorded over the period.
No organised violence recorded over the period.
No organised violence recorded over the period.
This briefing gathers public information to prepare a mission. It does not replace your organisation's security analysis, your security focal point's instructions or the country's authorities.