Hotel in near stadium, Eritrea
Saba Hotel
Affordable hotel offering reasonable comfort at budget prices. Clean rooms, some with AC, simple restaurant, and helpful staff. Good compromise between budget and comfort.
Saba Hotel is a budget-to-lower-mid-range accommodation in the southern part of Asmara, located near the city's main stadium. The Asmara stadium area is a recognisable landmark in the Eritrean capital and the surrounding neighbourhood is predominantly residential, with local tea shops, small grocery stalls, and cafes within walking distance. Asmara city centre, Harnet Avenue, and the main commercial district are accessible by minibus or on foot in under thirty minutes from this southern position.
The hotel name — Saba — references the ancient Sabaean civilisation that historically influenced the Horn of Africa, and the property is one of a cluster of budget options south of the colonial-era centre. Rooms are priced between approximately 18 and 42 US dollars per night, with the more expensive rooms offering air conditioning in addition to the standard ceiling fan. All rooms are described as clean, with private bathrooms in most configurations. The lobby has WiFi access, though signal may not extend reliably to all rooms. A simple restaurant on the premises serves Eritrean staples — shiro, zigni, ful medames, and rice dishes — at low prices, and this is one of the conveniences that distinguishes Saba Hotel from the city's most basic guesthouses.
On-site parking is available, which makes the property convenient for international NGO staff or journalists arriving with vehicles. The overall character is honest and unpretentious — clean rather than comfortable, functional rather than characterful. For travellers whose budget does not stretch to mid-range options on Harnet or Sematat Avenue but who want a private bathroom and an on-site meal option, Saba Hotel provides a reliable compromise. The stadium proximity means occasional noise on match days, which occur irregularly and are worth checking in advance if light sleep is a concern.
Amenities
- clean rooms
- some AC rooms
- simple restaurant
- WiFi in lobby
- parking
Visit / Book / Contact
- Phone: +291 1 124555
Location
Southern Asmara, near stadium
15.3300, 38.9300 — View on map
Highlights
- Reliable budget option in Asmara with private bathrooms and on-site restaurant at $18–42 per night
- On-site parking available, convenient for NGO staff and overland travellers with vehicles
- Simple restaurant serving Eritrean staples including shiro, zigni, and ful medames at low prices
- Air-conditioned rooms available at the upper end of the rate range
Tips
- Book an air-conditioned room if visiting March through May when Asmara temperatures rise toward their annual peak.
- Stadium events occasionally cause traffic and noise nearby — check local schedules if this is a concern.
- Minibuses running along the main southern arterials connect the area to Harnet Avenue and the city centre for minimal cost.
- The simple restaurant is reliable for a filling Eritrean meal in the evening without venturing far.
- Keep valuables in the room safe or in a bag close to the body; the surrounding neighbourhood is generally safe but vigilance is always advisable.
FAQ
How far is Saba Hotel from central Asmara and Harnet Avenue?
The hotel is in southern Asmara near the main stadium, approximately 2–3 km from Harnet Avenue. Minibuses and shared taxis running north through the city cover this distance in about 10–15 minutes for a small nakfa fare.
Does the hotel have air conditioning in all rooms?
Only some rooms at Saba Hotel have air conditioning; others rely on ceiling fans. Rooms with AC are priced at the higher end of the rate range. Guests should request an AC room explicitly at the time of booking or check-in if this is important.
Is parking available at the hotel?
Yes, on-site parking is available at no additional charge for guests arriving by private vehicle. This is an advantage for travellers with NGO, press, or research vehicles that require secure overnight parking.
Accessibility
Saba Hotel is a low-rise property in a residential neighbourhood. There is no documented lift or wheelchair-accessible room provision. The entrance may have a step threshold; guests with mobility requirements should contact the property directly before booking to confirm room access and bathroom facilities.
When to visit
Asmara's highland climate is pleasant year-round. The cooler dry months from October through February are the most comfortable, with daytime temperatures around 22–24 °C. The hotel is open throughout the year with no seasonal closure.