Complete Guide to Addis Ababa Airport (ADD) Lounges
Planning a journey through Ethiopia's main gateway? Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) serves as a crucial hub connecting Africa with the world, and finding the right airport lounge can transform your transit experience.
Addis Ababa Bole International Airport handles over 22 million passengers annually, making it East Africa's busiest aviation hub. The airport features two main terminals - Terminal 1 for domestic flights, and the larger Terminal 2 for international flights. With Ethiopian Airlines using ADD as its primary hub, the airport offers an impressive selection of lounges catering to different traveller needs and budgets.
This comprehensive guide covers all five lounges across both terminals at ADD, from the Plaza Premium Lounge to Ethiopian Airlines' domestic and international lounges. Whether you're seeking a shower during a long layover, traditional Ethiopian coffee, or simply a quiet place to work, we'll help you navigate your options.
Terminal 1 Lounges
Terminal 1, upgraded in May 2024 with a $50 million renovation, handles domestic Ethiopian Airlines flights. The terminal has four contact gates and ten departure gates, serving about 2 million passengers each year. Terminal 1 has one airline lounge operated by Ethiopian Airlines.
| Lounge | Access Options | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Ethiopian Airlines ShebaMiles Lounge | Ethiopian Airlines Business Class, Star Alliance Gold, ShebaMiles Platinum or Gold status | 05:00 - 00:00 daily |
Ethiopian Airlines ShebaMiles Lounge
The Ethiopian Airlines ShebaMiles Lounge in Terminal 1 offers a space for Business Class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members flying domestically with Ethiopian Airlines.
Directions
The Ethiopian Airlines ShebaMiles Lounge in Terminal 1 is on the first floor after security.
Opening Hours
The lounge is open daily from 5:00 AM to midnight.
Facilities
While specific amenity details are limited in available sources, the lounge follows Ethiopian Airlines' standard domestic lounge format. Expect basic seating areas, complimentary refreshments, and essential business facilities. The space reflects the airline's focus on efficiency for shorter domestic flights.
Food & Beverage
Ethiopian Airlines typically provides light refreshments in its domestic lounges, including local snacks, soft drinks, and the airline's signature Ethiopian coffee. Hot food options may be limited compared to the international lounges.
Access Options
The following customers can enter the Terminal 1 Ethiopian Airlines ShebaMiles Lounge up to 3 hours before :
Airline status or Travel Class:
Star Alliance passengers flying Business Class with Ethiopian Airlines, and for Star Alliance Gold status holders traveling on this airline in any class. This includes ShebaMiles Platinum and Gold members. Status holders can share complimentary access with 1 eligible guest.
Child Access Policy
Children under 2 years are admitted free.
Terminal 2 Lounges
Terminal 2 serves as ADD's international gateway, inaugurated in January 2019 with a capacity for 22 million passengers annually. The terminal houses Ethiopian Airlines' international operations alongside major carriers including Emirates, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, Kenya Airways, and Qatar Airways.
With four lounges available, Terminal 2 offers diverse options for different passenger categories, including one paid access lounge (Plaza Premium) and three airline lounges, all run by Ethiopian Airlines.
Terminal 2 Lounge Comparison
| Lounge | Access Options | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Plaza Premium Lounge | LoungePair, Plaza Premium, Lounge Pass, Priority Pass, DragonPass, American Express, Walk-up, LoungePair, Priority Pass, DragonPass, LoungeKey, Airline Travel Class and Status (Qatar Airways, flydubai) | 24 hours daily |
| Cloud Nine Lounge | Star Alliance Business Class (Ethiopian Airlines, EgyptAir, Turkish Airlines), Emirates First or Business Class, Emirates Skywards Platinum or Gold | 24 hours daily |
| Sheba Platinum & Star Gold | ShebaMiles Platinum or Gold, Star Alliance Gold, SAUDIA First or Business Class along with eligible Alfursan Gold and SkyTeam Elite Plus members | 24 hours daily |
| ShebaMiles Silver | ShebaMiles Silver only | 05:00 - 00:00 daily |
Plaza Premium Lounge
Opened in March 2022 through a partnership with NHY Group, the Plaza Premium Lounge offers Terminal 2's only independent lounge option. The lounge welcomes all travelers through various paid access options and membership programs. It also serves as the designated lounge for Qatar Airways Business Class passengers and eligible status holders both with Qatar Privilege Club and oneworld.
Overview
Spanning 1,000 square meters and conveniently located right after security, the Plaza Premium lounge accommodates approximately 325 guests in a modern, single-level space. The 24-hour operation makes it valuable for passengers on Ethiopian Airlines' heavily banked schedule. Recent reviews from 2024 highlight both strengths and limitations - the lounge provides essential services but can feel crowded during peak evening departures.
Directions
The Plaza Premium Lounge is located on Level 2 immediately on your right after passport control, nearby the junction of A and B gates (near Gate A7).
If you’re in transit, the lounge is on the departures floor (top floor) between gates A and B, one floor above security.
While conveniently located, note that you may need to allow 15 to 20 minutes walking time to the further gates at the terminal.
Opening Hours
The lounge is open 24 hours daily.
Facilities
The lounge features standard international lounge seating with a mix of chairs and small tables arranged in an open-plan layout. A dedicated business center provides workstations with charging points, though the space is limited.
Six shower rooms are available, you can reserve your use of one at reception. Complimentary items for use include shower gel, shampoo, bath towel and hair dryer. A dental kit and shaving kit can be provided on request. Normal restrooms are not inside the lounge, and guests must use the shared public airport restrooms located just outside.
The compact size of the lounge means finding seating during busy periods (typically 6-10 PM) can be challenging.
Food & Beverage
The self-service buffet offers rotating selections throughout the day, though quality and variety receive mixed reviews. When properly stocked, expect continental breakfast items in the morning, transitioning to hot dishes for lunch and dinner. The bar operates on a paid basis - beer is reported to cost $9 USD, with no complimentary alcohol included in the standard access. Some reviews mention inconsistent food quality and limited variety compared to the entry price.
Access Options
There are a number of options to get access to the Plaza Premium Lounge in Addis Ababa, including purchasing day passes, using certain premium credit cards or membership programs, or flying with specific airlines. Your maximum stay duration will depend on where you purchase your pass, or whether you use a membership program.
Online Purchase Methods:
LoungePair Pass: Purchase a flexible lounge pass via LoungePair, which offers walk-up access without a fixed time/date booking. LoungePair offers 3 hours access from $38 USD, a fully refundable pass for an additional $5 USD, or a free pass when purchased together with a LoungePair+ membership.
Other Online Advance Purchase Methods:
Lounge Pass offer the ability to purchase a pass for $38 USD. You must select a fixed date and time to use your pass, and you must buy the pass greater than 24 hours before your visit. This pass offers a maximum 3 hour stay duration.
Plaza Premium allows direct bookings priced at $45 USD. You must select a fixed date and time to use your pass, and you must buy the pass greater than 24 hours before your visit. This pass offers a maximum 4 hour stay duration.
Get Your Guide offer the ability to purchase a pass from $48 USD. You must select a fixed date to use your pass. If you cancel 24 hours or more before the selected use date, you will receive a full refund. You can purchase a more flexible pass for around $10 USD extra. This pass offers a maximum 3 hour stay duration.
Lounge Membership:
Priority Pass and DragonPass members can access the lounge as part of their membership benefits. Complimentary guest entitlements will depend on how you have obtained your membership. These membership options allow a maximum 2 hour stay duration.
Credit Card Programs:
A number of premium credit cards include lounge access as a cardholder benefit. Common options include American Express, Diners Club, Mastercard with LoungeKey, Visa Infinite Privilege with Airport Companion, and Capital One.
Airline status or Travel Class:
oneworld passengers flying Business Class with Qatar Airways, and for Sapphire or Emerald members traveling on this airline. Status holders can bring one guest provided they are travelling same day on a oneworld operated flight.
Qatar Airways passengers flying in Business Class, along with eligible Privilege Club Silver, Gold and Platinum members in any class. Silver members have no guest entitlement. Gold members can share complimentary access with 1 eligible guest. Platinum members share complimentary access with 2 adult guests.
flydubai passengers flying Business Class, along with eligible Skywards Gold and Platinum members in any class. No guest entitlement applies regardless of status.
Walk-Up Access:
Subject to capacity, you can purchase access directly at the lounge entrance. The walk-in rate is usually $50 USD per person.
Child Access Policy
Children under 2 years are admitted free.
Reviews
The most recent review of this lounge including photos is by Upgraded Points.
Ethiopian Airlines Cloud Nine Lounge
Ethiopian Airlines' flagship Cloud Nine Lounge near Gate A13 on the departure level serves as the primary international business class facility. Operating 24 hours daily, this expansive lounge showcases Ethiopian hospitality through traditional coffee ceremonies and extensive dining options.
Entrance to the Addis Ababa Ethiopian Sheba Cloud Nine Lounge. Courtesy Head for Points.
Overview
The Cloud Nine Lounge spans multiple seating areas with views of the tarmac, accommodating several hundred passengers across different zones. However, the space faces significant challenges during Ethiopian Airlines' tightly banked schedule, with virtually all long-haul flights arriving and departing within concentrated windows. The lounge "gets absolutely slammed" during these peaks, particularly between 6-10 PM and 2-5 AM.
Directions
The Cloud Nine Lounge is located opposite gate A13. How you get to the lounge will depend on whether you are a joining or transiting passenger.
For joining passengers – After immigration and security, turn left and walk to gate A13.
For transit passengers – After security, go up one floor to the departure area. Turn left and walk to gate A13.
Opening Hours
The lounge is open 24 hours daily.
Facilities
The lounge divides into several distinct areas including a main dining section, quieter seating zones, a children's room, massage chairs, and a dedicated quiet room. Business facilities include workstations and meeting areas. Despite the spacious layout, finding seating during peak times can be extremely difficult.
Shower facilities are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with registration required at reception. Access is strictly by queue number, and boarding passes must be left with staff for monitoring purposes. You’ll need at least 60 minutes before your flight to be eligible, and usage is limited to 15 minutes per person to ensure fair access for all travellers. Note that some reviews note poor conditions - with shower suites described as small, muggy, with maintenance issues.
Bar Area at Addis Ababa Ethiopian Sheba Cloud Nine Lounge. Courtesy Head for Points.
Food & Beverage
The Cloud Nine Lounge offers ADD's most extensive complimentary dining, with hot and cold buffets featuring Ethiopian and international cuisine. The standout feature remains the traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, performed by staff in traditional dress. A full bar provides complimentary beer, wine, and spirits. The buffet includes multiple hot dishes, salads, desserts, and made-to-order options during peak meal times. However, food can be quickly depleted during the rush periods.
Food Area at Addis Ababa Ethiopian Sheba Cloud Nine Lounge. Courtesy Head for Points.
Other Features
Beyond the coffee ceremony, the lounge offers massage chairs, a children's play area, and traditional Ethiopian decor throughout. The quiet room provides some refuge during chaotic peaks, though it too fills quickly. There is also a small smoking room, for those who need it.
Access Options
The following customers can enter the Cloud Nine Lounge up to 5 hours before their flight:
Airline status or Travel Class:
Star Alliance passengers flying Business Class with Ethiopian Airlines, EgyptAir and Turkish Airlines. No complimentary guest entitlement.
Emirates passengers flying First or Business Class, along with eligible Skywards Gold and Platinum members in any class. Gold members can share complimentary access with 1 eligible guest. Platinum members share complimentary access with 1 adult guest and 2 guests under the age of 17.
Note that if you arrive into Addis Ababa on an inbound flight in First or Business but connect onward in Economy, Ethiopian does not grant access to this lounge for your second leg.
Child Access Policy
Children under 2 years are admitted free.
Reviews
Current reviews of this lounge including photos can be found at Travel Update, Nonstop Points, One Mile At A Time and Head for Points.
Sheba Platinum & Star Gold Lounge
Located opposite Gate A13 from the Cloud Nine Lounge, this dedicated facility serves Ethiopian Airlines' top-tier frequent flyers and Star Alliance Gold members. Its entrance and footprint is almost identical to the Sheba Cloud Nine Lounge.
Note that while the Ethiopian Airlines website lists "ShebaMiles Platinum Lounge" and "Star Alliance Gold Lounge" separately, it is one integrated lounge, designed to serve all eligible elite status holders.
Entrance to the Addis Ababa Ethiopian Sheba Platinum & Star Gold Lounge. Courtesy Head for Points.
Directions
The Sheba Platinum & Star Gold Lounge is located opposite gate A13. How you get to the lounge will depend on whether you are a joining or transiting passenger.
For joining passengers – After immigration and security, turn left and walk to gate A13.
For transit passengers – After security, go up one floor to the departure area. Turn left and walk to gate A13.
Opening Hours
The lounge is open 24 hours daily.
Facilities
The lounge is physically similar in size and style to the Cloud Nine lounge, described in some visitor reports as a near mirror image. It features its own distinct amenities, including a buffet, a bar, a coffee ceremony area, and shower facilities.
Some reviews note that furniture appears slightly older and the food and beverage selection, while substantial, may be slightly less extensive than in the Cloud Nine lounge.
Access Options
The following customers can enter the Sheba Platinum & Star Gold Lounge up to 5 hours before their flight:
Airline status or Travel Class:
Star Alliance passengers flying Economy Class with Ethiopian Airlines, EgyptAir and Turkish Airlines, with Star Alliance Gold status. This includes ShebaMiles Platinum and Gold members. Status holders can share complimentary access with 1 eligible guest.
SAUDIA passengers flying First or Business Class, along with eligible Alfursan Gold and SkyTeam Elite Plus members in any class. SkyTeam Elite Plus members can share complimentary access with one guest, but the guest must be traveling on the same SkyTeam-operated flight as the member.
Child Access Policy
Children under 2 years are admitted free.
Reviews
Head for Points have reviewed this lounge.
Seating Area at Addis Ababa Ethiopian Sheba Platinum & Star Gold Lounge. Courtesy Head for Points.
ShebaMiles Silver Lounge
The Silver Lounge opened in August 2024. The lounge can accommodate up to 200 guests across 810 square metres. Amenities are reported to include an array of buffets, comfortable seating areas, a designated smoking room, a kids’ corner and more.
The lounge operates more limited hours (5:00 AM to midnight), and is accessible post-security from the inner corridor of Terminal 2's Departure Hall.
This entry-level status lounge is exclusively available to ShebaMiles Silver members travelling on Ethiopian Airlines flights. There are no guest entitlements for Silver members visiting this lounge, with the exception of children aged under 2.
The broader Star Alliance network does not grant lounge access to its Silver-tier members, making access to this lounge unique for the ShebaMiles program.
Airline Lounge Access Guide
Understanding which lounge you can access based on your airline and ticket type helps streamline your airport experience. We’ve compiled a “cheat sheet” table below, to guide you on your options.
| Airline | Terminal | Business/First Class Access | Status Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ethiopian Airlines | T1 (Domestic) | ShebaMiles Lounge | ShebaMiles Platinum/Gold → ShebaMiles Lounge Star Alliance Gold → ShebaMiles Lounge |
| Ethiopian Airlines | T2 (Int'l) | Cloud Nine Lounge | ShebaMiles Platinum/Gold → Sheba Platinum & Star Gold ShebaMiles Silver → Silver Lounge Star Alliance Gold → Sheba Platinum & Star Gold |
| EgyptAir | T2 | Cloud Nine Lounge | Star Alliance Gold → Sheba Platinum & Star Gold |
| Turkish Airlines | T2 | Cloud Nine Lounge | Star Alliance Gold → Sheba Platinum & Star Gold |
| Emirates | T2 | Cloud Nine Lounge | Skywards Gold/Platinum → Cloud Nine Lounge |
| Qatar Airways | T2 | Plaza Premium Lounge | Privilege Club Silver/Gold/Platinum → Plaza Premium oneworld Sapphire/Emerald → Plaza Premium |
| flydubai | T2 | Plaza Premium Lounge | Skywards Gold/Platinum → Plaza Premium |
| SAUDIA | T2 | Sheba Platinum & Star Gold | Alfursan Gold → Sheba Platinum & Star Gold SkyTeam Elite Plus → Sheba Platinum & Star Gold |
| Other Airlines | T1/T2 | No dedicated access | Purchase Plaza Premium (T2) - $38-50 USD |
Which Lounge is Best?
Your ideal lounge choice will depend on access eligibility, terminal location, and specific needs:
Best for Independent Travelers
Plaza Premium Lounge - The only purchasable option $38 USD for 3 hours. Despite some mixed reviews, the 24 hour operation and shower facilities make it worthwhile for long layovers. You can book through LoungePair for flexible access.
Best for Ethiopian Airlines Passengers
Cloud Nine Lounge - If eligible through flying Ethiopian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, EgyptAir, or Emirates, this lounge offers the most comprehensive Ethiopian experience including traditional coffee ceremonies. You can however expect severe crowding during peak banks.
Best for Quiet Environment
Sheba Platinum & Star Gold Lounge - Often has fewer crowds than Cloud Nine. Ideal for Star Alliance Gold members seeking a calmer atmosphere during connection peaks.
Best Value for Short Stays
Terminal seating - With limited food options and basic amenities in all lounges, Terminal 2's expanded seating areas and restaurants may suffice for stays under 2 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy lounge access at Addis Ababa Airport?
Yes, but options are limited. The Plaza Premium Lounge in Terminal 2 is the only lounge offering paid access from $38 USD for 3 hours access. You can purchase access through LoungePair, walk up to the lounge, or use membership programs like Priority Pass or DragonPass. All Ethiopian Airlines lounges require business class tickets or elite status - no day passes are sold.
Which lounges accept Priority Pass at ADD?
Only the Plaza Premium Lounge in Terminal 2 accepts Priority Pass. There is an advertised 2-hour limit for Priority Pass access, though this isn't consistently enforced. The Ethiopian Airlines lounges (Cloud Nine, Sheba status lounges) do not accept Priority Pass or any other third-party lounge programs. There is no Priority Pass lounge in Terminal 1 for domestic departures.
Are there showers in Addis Ababa Airport lounges?
Yes, showers are available in most Terminal 2 lounges, including the Plaza Premium Lounge, Cloud Nine Lounge and Sheba Platinum & Star Gold Lounge. The domestic Ethiopian Airlines lounge in Terminal 1 does not advertise shower facilities.
Can I access lounges if I'm flying economy class?
Your options will depend on your airline, membership status, and departure terminal.
Economy passengers on any airline can purchase access to the Plaza Premium Lounge when departing on an international flight from Terminal 2, or use a Priority Pass/DragonPass/LoungeKey membership. Qatar Airways Silver, Gold and Platinum members will have complimentary access to the Plaza Premium Lounge when flying in Economy.
If you have eligible status and are travelling on a Star Alliance airline, you will have access the Ethiopian Airlines Domestic Lounge in Terminal 1, or the Sheba Platinum & Star Gold Lounge in Terminal 1.
Emirates Skywards Gold and Platinum members can access the Cloud Nine Lounge when flying in Economy on Emirates.
ShebaMiles Silver members can access the ShebaMiles Silver Lounge in Terminal 2 when flying with Ethiopian Airlines only.
What are the busiest times for lounges at ADD?
Ethiopian Airlines operates a heavily banked schedule with most long-haul flights arriving and departing in waves. The busiest periods are typically 6-10 PM for evening Europe/Asia departures and 2-5 AM for morning arrivals and connections. Both the Cloud Nine Lounge and Sheba Platinum & Star Gold Lounge are reported as being very busy during these periods. For a quieter experience, visit during mid-day hours (10 AM-4 PM) if your schedule allows.
Practical Airport Information
Getting To and From the Airport
Addis Ababa Bole International Airport sits approximately 6 kilometres southeast of the city center. The journey typically takes 20-30 minutes, though traffic can extend this to an hour during peak periods.
Transportation Options:
Taxi: Yellow taxis are readily available outside arrivals. Negotiate the fare before departure (typically 300-500 ETB to city center, $2-$4 USD equivalent) or insist on using the meter, either way, will be very cheap comparative to many other countries
Ride apps: RIDE and Feres operate in Addis Ababa, offering more predictable pricing
Hotel shuttles: Many hotels provide complimentary airport transfers - confirm with your hotel when booking
City bus: Limited service exists but isn't recommended for visitors with luggage
Navigating Between Terminals
Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are connected by both a covered walkway and free shuttle service. The walk takes approximately 10-15 minutes, while the shuttle runs on demand and completes the journey in about 5 minutes. Both terminals share the same secure area, so international connections don't require re-clearing security.
Wi-Fi and Connectivity
Free airport Wi-Fi (network: "ADD Free WiFi") requires registration and offers limited speeds. All lounges provide complimentary Wi-Fi, though Plaza Premium users report poor signal strength. For reliable connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card from Ethio Telecom counters in the arrival halls. Data packages start from 100 ETB.
Currency and Payments
The local currency is Ethiopian Birr (ETB). ATMs are available in multiple locations throughout both terminals, though not all accept international cards. Currency exchange counters operate in arrivals and departures but offer poor rates compared to city locations. Many lounges and shops accept USD, though change is given in ETB at unfavorable rates. Credit cards are accepted at major outlets, but cash remains king for most airport services.
Layover Hotel and Stopover Programs
For travelers with long layovers in Addis Ababa, there are two primary hotel options: the complimentary stopover program offered by Ethiopian Airlines (which requires clearing immigration) and the paid in-terminal hotel for those staying within the secure area.
Ethiopian Airlines Free Stopover Hotel (STPC)
If you have a long, unavoidable layover, you may be eligible for Ethiopian Airline’s complimentary stopover service, often referred to as STPC (Stopover Paid by Carrier). This program includes a hotel room, meals, airport transfers, and even a transit visa, all covered by the airline.
Eligibility Criteria:
You must be flying on Ethiopian Airlines for both your inbound and outbound international flights.
Your layover in Addis Ababa must be between 8 and 24 hours.
Crucially, you must have booked the earliest possible connecting flight. If you voluntarily chose a later flight despite an earlier one being available, you will not be eligible.
This service is available to both Business Class and Economy Class passengers.
How to Claim Your Free Stopover:
Upon arrival in Terminal 2, do not go directly to the transit area or flight connections.
Instead, head to the main arrivals hall and look for the Interline or Stopover Desk.
Present your onward boarding pass and passport to the staff. They will verify your eligibility.
If eligible, you will be given a hotel voucher, meal vouchers, and a transit visa slip.
You must then proceed through immigration to officially enter Ethiopia.
Once you exit, you will be directed to a shuttle service for your assigned hotel.
Ethiopian Skylight In-Terminal Hotel (Paid Option)
For travelers who are not eligible for the free stopover program, have a shorter layover, or simply prefer not to clear immigration and customs, there is a convenient hotel located directly within the airport's secure transit area.
Standard King Room at Ethiopian Skylight In-Terminal Hotel
Location: The Ethiopian Skylight In-Terminal Hotel is situated inside Terminal 2, near the departure gates. It is accessible after you pass through security, meaning you do not need a visa to stay there.
Booking: This is a paid hotel that can be booked directly or through various hotel booking websites. It is advisable to book in advance, as it is a popular option for transit passengers.
Room Types: The hotel offers a range of rooms to suit different needs, from 24 sqm Standard King/Twin rooms to spacious 71 sqm Executive Suites. All rooms include amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a mini-bar, and coffee/tea making facilities.
Pricing and Duration: Stays are priced in flexible time blocks. Prices vary by room type and duration, ranging from approximately $55 USD for a 1-3 hour stay in a standard room to over $435 USD for a 24-hour stay with breakfast in an executive suite. Common blocks are 1-3 hours, 4-6 hours, 7-12 hours, and up to 24 hours.
Features: The hotel offers various room types, a restaurant, and a bar. It is designed for convenience, allowing you to rest comfortably just minutes away from your connecting flight's gate. This is an excellent option if your layover is several hours long but falls short of the 8-hour minimum for the free STPC program. This may also be a great alternative for those who prefer a proper rest in a bed instead of an airport lounge space.
You can read a more detailed review with images of the Skylight In-Terminal Hotel on One Mile At A Time.
Summing Up
Addis Ababa Bole International Airport offers five distinct lounge options split between its two terminals, though your choices largely depend on your airline and class of service.
For most travelers without status, the Plaza Premium Lounge in Terminal 2 remains the sole purchasable option - a worthwhile investment during overnight layovers or when facing Ethiopian Airlines' notoriously crowded connection peaks.
Star Alliance Business Class passengers and Emirates Platinum and Gold status holders enjoy access to the extensive Cloud Nine Lounge with its traditional coffee ceremony, though should brace for severe overcrowding during the 6-10 PM and 2-5 AM rush periods.
The tiered ShebaMiles lounges provide alternatives for frequent flyers on Ethiopian Airlines and Star Alliance partners, while Terminal 1's domestic lounge serves only eligible passengers on domestic routes.
Managing expectations is key - these lounges offer functional respite from the terminal crowds rather than luxury experiences.
