Living in Old Airport
Old Airport is a leafy residential area in south-western Addis Ababa. It is known for large villas on walled compounds, embassy residences and the International Community School of Addis Ababa. The area around Bisrate Gabriel church is part of it. Many diplomats and families with school-age children live here.
Living in Old Airport
Old Airport is quieter and greener than Bole. Large compounds with gardens line many streets. Several embassies and ambassadors' residences are in the area. International organizations and NGOs also rent houses here for staff.
The International Community School of Addis Ababa (ICS) is on Mauritania Road in Old Airport. Reports from foreign staff say many embassy families with children live in Old Airport to be near the school. The same reports say the trip to some embassies in the north of the city can take 30 to 40 minutes.
Cafes, supermarkets and restaurants serve the area, though fewer than in Bole. Sarbet, with more cafes and the African Union, lies next to Old Airport.
Wikipedia lists Besrat Gebriel in Nifas Silk-Lafto sub-city. Parts of the wider Old Airport area may fall under a neighboring sub-city. Check the title deed.
Property types and prices
Old Airport offers:
- Large villas on big compounds, often with gardens and staff quarters
- G+1 and G+2 family houses
- New apartment buildings, mostly near the main roads
- Furnished houses for diplomats and NGO staff
Metropolitan Real Estate builds apartments in Bisrate Gebriel and Sarbet. Many houses in Old Airport rent to embassies and organizations on long leases.
Old Airport is one of the most expensive areas for house rentals in the city. Large villas for diplomats ask premium rents. Many leases run for a year or more, and landlords often ask for several months of rent in advance. Houses for sale come up less often, because many owners prefer to keep long-term tenants. We do not have enough reliable data to give a price range. Compare current houses for rent and houses for sale.
Getting around
Old Airport has no light rail station. The nearest stations are around Mexico and Lideta. Minibus taxis run on the main roads. Most residents drive or use ride-hailing apps. Trips to Bole and the airport cross the city and can be slow at peak hours.
Who Old Airport suits
- Diplomats and embassy staff
- Families with children at international schools
- NGO and international organization staff
- People who want a large house with a garden
It suits people on a tight budget less well. Lower prices are available in Jemo and Lebu to the south.
Buying or renting in Old Airport
For a villa, check the compound walls, the security, the water tank and the backup generator. Ask about the roof, the plumbing and the electrical wiring in older houses. For long leases, agree in writing on repairs and rent reviews. Our guide on how to buy a house in Addis Ababa explains the legal steps for a purchase.
Frequently asked questions
Is Old Airport a good place to live?
Old Airport is a good choice for families and diplomats who want a large house with a garden near international schools. It is expensive and has no light rail station.
Why do expats live in Old Airport?
The International Community School of Addis Ababa is here. Many embassies and organizations also rent large houses in the area for staff.
Is Bisrate Gabriel part of Old Airport?
Yes. Listings often use Old Airport and Bisrate Gabriel for the same area. This page shows both.