In recent years, tourism has emerged as a fundamental pillar in Ethiopia’s national development agenda. Recognized for its potential to drive sustainable growth, create jobs, and bring in foreign currency, the sector has received renewed political focus and coordinated investments. This strategic shift reflects a broader vision to transform Ethiopia’s immense cultural and natural wealth into an engine for inclusive economic development.
The national initiative known as “Dine for Nation,” launched by the Prime Minister, has been a key catalyst in this transformation. The program has mobilized public participation and investments to develop new tourist lodges, upgrade existing destinations, and open previously untapped sites across the country. Alongside infrastructure development, the initiative has fostered a sense of national ownership and pride in Ethiopia’s tourism potential.
As a result, Ethiopia is witnessing a steady rise in the number of domestic and international tourists; new destinations are emerging alongside historical landmarks, offering visitors a more diverse and rich experience. By blending its timeless heritage with modern tourism development, Ethiopia is strengthening its position on the global tourism map while transforming cultural legacy into a driver for unity and long-term prosperity.
At the heart of this growing appeal lies the ancient city of Lalibela, famous for its rock-hewn churches, revered as a spiritual center for the “Genna” (Ethiopian Orthodox Christmas) celebration. The city is preparing to host a massive celebration on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, the date when Orthodox Christians across the country celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
Every year, Lalibela becomes the focal point of Christmas celebrations in Ethiopia, attracting hundreds of thousands of pilgrims, priests, monks, and visitors from across Ethiopia and the world. Known as the “Holy Land of Africa,” the city is home to 11 extraordinary rock-hewn churches and a symbolic Jordan River—an ambitious vision realized during the reign of King Lalibela. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the religious ceremonies in Lalibela have remained largely unchanged for centuries.
It is expected that over one million visitors will attend the “Genna” celebrations this year. The city has already begun receiving large numbers of visitors ahead of the holiday, confirming its status as Ethiopia’s premier tourist destination.
This year’s celebration is expected to be particularly vibrant, featuring solemn church services, traditional music, and cultural performances that reflect Ethiopia’s deep-rooted religious and social traditions. Pilgrims and tourists alike will gather amidst Lalibela’s stunning landscape and ancient stone churches, creating an atmosphere of profound spirituality and cultural pride.
Christmas in northern Ethiopia is more than just a religious rite; it is a cultural experience that seamlessly blends faith, history, and collective celebration. The occasion gains additional significance as the celebration coincides with the birthdays of both Jesus Christ and Saint Lalibela, lending the event special grandeur and symbolism.
The city administration confirmed that in preparation for these celebrations, hotels, tour operators, health centers, security personnel, and other service providers have finalized the necessary arrangements to accommodate the influx of visitors.
As Ethiopia continues to solidify its position as a premier global destination, the Ethiopian Christmas in Lalibela stands as a powerful symbol of how ancient history and renewed vision converge to captivate the world.
Arab tourists continue to steadily flock to Ethiopia, as the country has become a preferred destination due to the intensive development and increase in tourism sites, infrastructure, and services.
It was recently revealed that 10,000 Saudi tourists visited the eco-friendly Wanchi Dandi lodge over the past three months.
The resort offers luxurious accommodation and numerous nature-based activities. This site, located about 150 km west of Addis Ababa, has received global recognition from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) as one of the “Best Tourism Villages.”
