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CATHERINE W GICHUKI
DOHA
ARE you looking for a unique destination to visit this summer? Then Ethiopia, popularly known as the Land of Origins, could be your next getaway as Ethiopian Immigration and Nationality Affairs Main Department, in collaboration with Ethiopian Airlines, has introduced electronic visa (e-visa) service to all nationalities.
With the new visa regime, all one has to do is process the visa online on a single webpage where one applies, pays and secures entry visa.
After this one gets authorised via email to secure his/her passport stamped with visa upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
To avail the service, one can visit 'https://www.evisa.gov.et/#/home'.
Speaking to Qatar Tribune, Ethiopian Airlines Area Manager Qatar Tehetena Zelleke said the service was launched in June, although many people are not aware of it.
"Single entry visa with validity of up to 30 days is $52 while single entry with a validity of up to 90 days is $72. All nationalities are eligible. Ethiopia, a treasure trove of history and culture, has become easier to get to with our new e-visa service. The new service brings you closer to authentic travel experiences and enables you to travel to Ethiopia," Zelleke said.
She reiterated that the service has made it easier for those who would want to travel to the East African country.
"It is easier now as people do not have to go to the embassy to apply for the visa. The processing of the visa under normal circumstances takes only three days," she said.
Talking about the attractions in Ethiopia, the official said,"From the sites where our ancestors first set foot and the world's oldest hominid fossils were discovered to the towering Axum obelisk from pre-Christian era and the magnificent walled city of Harar of the 9th century, the visitors would have a lot of memorable places to visit in Ethiopia."
"Other attractions include the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela of the 12th century, the splendour of the castles of Gonder of the 17th country, the jaw-dropping mountainous landscape of Simien National Park with its endemic animals unique to Ethiopia, the beautiful Konso cultural site, the impressive Tiya Stones in the south, the breathtaking Bale Natural Park with its variety of wild animals and the delightful kaffa region from where coffee first spread to the rest of the world. Ethiopia has everything to offer as your next holiday destination."
Ethiopian Airlines has direct flights to/from more than 110 destinations across five continents.
