Welcome to ICANN80 | Kigali Policy Forum. This four-day meeting is dedicated to policy, advice, and technical work.
ICANN80 will be held 10 - 13 June 2024 at Kigali Convention Centre (KCC).
Prep Week (Online Only): 28 - 30 May 2024
In-Person attendance registration remains open until June 7. (On-site registration will not be available.)
To request an invitation letter for visa applications, please Register as an in-person participant for this meeting.
Review this document for dining options. If you need assistance with group bookings for dining or transportation, email: icann80@planitswiss.com. A booking fee may apply for these services. Please inquire via email for more details.
As with all international travel, travelers have a responsibility to understand the entry and exit requirements of their travel and determine if they can meet those requirements before committing to the travel.
Travelers may review specific travel requirements by visiting https://apply.joinsherpa.com/map or their local government international traveler websites.
https://www.migration.gov.rw/our-services/visa-issued-under-special-arrangement
Travelers from eligible countries may pay for the visa fee upon arrival at the immigration desk. Fees vary. It is important for travelers to have the exact amount in cash or electronic payment.
Acquiring visas may take time, so plan accordingly to ensure that you have all required visas issued before your expected travel date. Customs and immigration rules change frequently, so check regularly to make sure you have the most up-to-date information for your trip. Check your entry requirements here.
To request an invitation letter for visa applications, please REGISTER as an in-person participant for this meeting.
Kigali is the capital and largest city of Rwanda and is the economic, cultural, and transport hub since it was founded as an administrative outpost in 1907, and became the capital of the country at independence in 1962.
Although petty crime does happen, Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa for travelers. Crime levels are similar with western European countries. Crime levels are low due to a highly visible police presence and a welcoming culture by locals. There is a low incidence of violent crime against travelers.
Participants should observe basic security precautions, especially avoiding the outward display of wealth. As with many large cities, smartphones are desired by opportunistic criminals, and they should be used discreetly in public.
Although the risk of crime in Kigali is low, expect to have security checks at hotels, the conference center and shopping malls, which may include metal detectors, bag searches and vehicle inspections. Always have a government issued photo ID with you.
Kigali provides adequate health facilities.
Check with your doctor or a travel clinic to verify the recommended vaccinations or if you need any medications for your trip. Requirements may vary by travel origin, and could include proof of Yellow Fever vaccination and prescription medication for Malaria and travelers diarrhea. Check your entry requirements here.
Additionally, many government travel agencies provide traveler information, for example, the U.S. CDC provides medical considerations here.
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry for anyone ≥ 1 year of age arriving from (or transiting through) a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission . The certificate becomes valid 10 days after vaccination and is valid for the life of the traveler.
Travelers' diarrhea is the most common travel-related illness. It usually occurs within the first week away from home. It is spread through contaminated food and water.
Prevention is through choosing safe food and water and paying attention to hygiene. Select food that is thoroughly cooked while fresh and served hot. Only drink bottled water.
Malaria occurs across the country, including in Kigali. Consider taking anti-malaria medication.
Source: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/rwandaKigali International Airport (KGL) is the International airport for Kigali, Rwanda. The airport is located on the outskirts of Kanombe, southeast of Kigali, about 5 km from the city center by expressway and about 10km from the central business district of the Rwandan capital.
Please note the Kigali International Airport only allows travelers to check into the airport no more than 2 hours prior to departure.
Taxis are available for transportation from Kigali International Airport.
Taxis are available 24 hours a day at Kigali International Airport. They are mostly white with a horizontal strip of color. Most do not have meters and the fee must be negotiated with the driver before entering the vehicle. The official rates are, from the airport, RWF 2500 for the first kilometer traveled and 600 RWF per additional kilometer (example for the Union Trade Center located 11km: 3100 RWF).
ATAK Taxis painted in sky-blue, and these airport transport taxis are available 24/7 at designated taxi/cabs ranks. Kindly look for taxi drivers outside the arrival gate.
Volkswagen Mobility Solutions (MOVE) service. These airport transport taxis are available 24/7 at designated taxi/cabs ranks. Kindly look for taxi drivers outside the arrival gate.
While there is no Uber in Rwanda, there are a few alternatives. One of the most popular alternatives is the Volkswagen Mobility Solutions (MOVE) service. https://move.rw/ The majority of the drivers speak English and the cars tend to be newer. However, the availability of their cars tends to be limited. Depending on the area and time of day, the peak pickup wait time can be up to 30-45 mins.
There is also the Yego Rwanda taxi app, called Yego Moto. Yego Moto is a transportation app that allows riders to hail Yego vehicles, but they also offer motorcycle/motorbike taxis, so be sure to check your rideshare settings before requesting a ride. This app requires a local Rwandan phone number. There are more vehicles available compared to MOVE but most drivers do not speak English.
The alternative mode of transportation between Kigali International Airport and your hotel is a pre-booked, private car service through ICANN's contracted Destination Management Company (DMC). For private car service bookings through ICANN's preferred DMC, email: icann80@planitswiss.com
Make sure you confirm final costs, cancellation policies, and terms and conditions before booking.
While taxis and Ride Shares are readily available at the airport, should you wish to confirm a private transfer, this can be arranged for you at the following rates:
| Vehicle (Capacity) | One Way Rate(s) |
|---|---|
| Sedan (3 pax) | 65 USD |
| SUV (3 pax) | 156 USD |
| VP Mini Van (5 pax) | 104 USD |
| SUV (3 pax) | 156 USD |
| Minivan / Group Pick up (7 pax) | 40 USD / Per person |
| Coaster / Group Pick up (15 pax) | 40 USD / Per person |
Disclaimer: these rates are applicable only for airport pick-ups and drop-offs.
A 25% service fee will be applied to all the bookings processed through the icann80@planitswiss.com
Private Car Service Terms and Conditions:
ICANN negotiates group rates for all official hotels to provide affordable housing options for attendees. Room blocks and rates are subject to availability and booking deadlines. In the event that ICANN room blocks are sold out, any remaining rooms will be sold at market rates set by the hotel. Please confirm deposit and cancellation policies directly with the hotel prior to booking.
A stylish conference hotel in Kigali near the airport and city center. The Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Center in Kigali is just 5 kilometers from the bustling city center and Kigali International Airport (KGL). Our contemporary hotel is situated in an office park with Kigali Convention Center, which has room for up to 5,000 delegates. It's just 2 km from several government embassies, the British High Commission, the Parliament and the Supreme Court.
Chic accommodation, excellent amenities and flexible event spaces. Our Kigali hotel's 291 rooms and suites offer private balconies and free high-speed Wi-Fi. 2 on-site restaurants, including one with all-day dining, serve up continental and Rwandan favorites as well as the Super Breakfast Buffet. For a light bite or a relaxing nightcap, visit the Lounge Bar.
The hotel also offers 650 parking bays. After a day exploring Kigali you can maintain your workout regimen in our fitness center and relax in the outdoor swimming pool.
Experience Rwanda’s capital from Kigali Marriott Hotel conveniently located near the Nyarugenge financial district and the Kigali Convention Center. Our impeccable 5 star luxury hotel provides spacious, modern accommodations with deluxe amenities and premium services. Make yourself comfortable in stylish rooms or lavish suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, spacious bathrooms and plush, pillow-top bedding. Additional amenities include flat-screen TVs, ergonomic workspaces and complimentary WiFi access for Marriott Bonvoy members. After a long day in Kigali, relax over a delicious meal in our popular restaurants, take a refreshing dip in our outdoor pool or unwind with a massage in our hotel spa. Allow our concierge to assist you in planning excursions to the Big Five, the famous canopy walks or the home of the renowned mountain gorillas. If visiting Rwanda for business, you will appreciate our versatile event venues and fantastic catering services. There is much to look forward to on your getaway to Kigali.
ICANN will provide shuttle service between the Kigali Marriott Hotel and the Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Center, Kigali.
Experience Rwanda's capital from our family friendly hotel. It’s strategically located in the city’s financial district and in close proximity to the Convention Center and several embassies. This family friendly four-star hotel is the perfect base to explore everything Kigali has to offer. With 154 modern rooms and suites, you can enjoy floor-to-ceiling windows, flat-screen TVs, ergonomic workspaces and complimentary high speed internet access. After a long day in Kigali, taste a delicious meal in one of our three restaurants and bars, reenergize at our 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center, take a refreshing dip in our outdoor pool or pamper yourself with a rejuvenating massage. You'll appreciate our meeting spaces, conference venues, delectable catering and sophisticated AV equipment when planning for an event with us. Make more of your stay and allow us to assist you in exploring what the country of a thousand hills has to offer from the renowned canopy walk to the exciting mountain gorillas.
ICANN will provide shuttle service between the Four Points by Sheraton Kigali Hotel and the Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Center, Kigali.
Offering a prime city center location, the Park Inn by Radisson Kigali is the premier hotel choice in Rwanda's capital city. The hotel is within easy reach of government buildings like the Presidential Palace and the Kigali Genocide Memorial Center. The international airport is just 12 kilometers away, and airport shuttles to and from the hotel are available. Our 161 modern rooms and suites include amenities like free high-speed Wi-Fi and vibrant furnishings, so you can stay connected in comfort. When it comes to dining, the Live Inn Room Restaurant offers a modern, cozy atmosphere, along with a delectable range of international dishes. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
ICANN will provide shuttle service between the Park Inn by Radisson Kigali and the Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Center, Kigali.
On an enchanting boulevard in the heart of Kigali, Rwanda, in a secure location just a five-minute walk from the CBD, lies Kigali Serena Hotel. A distinctively rich blend of Rwandan heritage, art and culture with contemporary 5-star comfort in 148 sophisticated rooms and suites, Serena Kigali hotel provides a private and peaceful retreat like no other for discerning international diplomats and executives.
Enjoy a host of leisure amenities. Lose yourself in the tranquility of our tropically landscaped pool. Indulge with a Mayan-inspired hot stone massage or a nature-based body wrap at Maisha Mind Body & Spirit Spa. Allow our restaurants to take you on a culinary journey, treating you to everything from expertly crafted Rwandese delicacies to enticing flavors from around the globe.
Kigali Serena Hotel is the city’s most exclusive private retreat for hosting signature social and business occasions of all manner and size with a state-of-the-art conference center, a 500-seat auditorium and magnificent ballroom.
Discover a hotel renowned for going above and beyond to exceed all expectations and establish its reputation as one of the best hotels in Rwanda. Our unique sense of place, landscaped gardens and exquisite health spa and swimming pool set a serene backdrop for a truly extraordinary experience.
ICANN will provide shuttle service between the Kigali Serena Hotel and the Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Center, Kigali.
Registering for an ICANN meeting or event constitutes an acceptance of the Community Anti-Harassment Policy and Terms of Participation and Complaint Procedure, the ICANN Expected Standards of Behavior, Privacy Policy, and ICANN electronic Terms of Service.
CONDUCT
All participants are expected to conduct themselves on a professional level and will be held to the standards set forth in the ICANN Community Anti-Harassment Policy and Terms of Participation and Complaint Procedure and the ICANN Expected Standards of Behavior.
USE OF PHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGES
Registering for this meeting constitutes an agreement to ICANN’s use and distribution of image or voice of attendees in photographs and video, or audio recordings.
PHOTOGRAPHY AND RECORDING POLICY
Filming, photographing, and recording audio of open ICANN sessions is permitted, as long as the method of recording used is reasonable and not conducted in a manner that violates the ICANN Expected Standards of Behavior.
Registration and public participation in ICANN Public Meetings constitutes an agreement that all photography, video, or audio recordings of open ICANN sessions are permitted and can be posted in the public domain. Agreement does not constitute a waiver of the participant’s right to challenge any filming, photography, or audio recordings of an open ICANN session if it is being performed in a manner that violates ICANN's Expected Standards of Behavior.
The formal records of all open meetings will be those published on https://meetings.icann.org/en/calendar or icann.org.
No. There will be no onsite registration facilities, so you must register in advance. This provides the event organizers and venue the ability to get important information in advance in terms of expected numbers and capacity planning.
In-person, advance registration will close on Friday, 7 June 2024. After that point in time, only virtual participation will be open for continued registration. Walk-up and late registrations will not be accepted after the in-person advance registration closes. All walk-up and late registered attendees will only have access to virtual participation.
ICANN will have an onsite Health and Safety Center (HSC) at ICANN80 to support all registered onsite attendees who need medical assistance during the event. The attendee’s badge will include the HSC’s location, hours of operation, and contact information. Any attendee who desires medical assistance for minor-to-moderate illness or injury during the event is encouraged to contact the HSC for support. For medical emergencies, please dial 112 immediately to reach local emergency services.
If you feel unwell during the event, you are strongly encouraged to limit in-person activities and use virtual participation from your hotel room. Should you choose to engage in any in-person activities, either while unwell or after exposure to someone who is ill, you are strongly encouraged to wear a well-fitting mask to minimize risk to others.
Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 must not enter the Kigali Convention Center (KCC) meeting spaces and is requested to notify the HSC. The HSC team will provide medical assistance, as needed, plus guidance to self-isolate and notify one’s close contacts of potential exposure to COVID-19. The U.S. CDC’s COVID-19 guidance can be found here.
ICANN org has modified several aspects of the arrival process with the return to hybrid meetings. All in-person attendees must be pre-registered by 7 June 2024 and show their registration confirmation email (requires a QR code) and government issued photo identification to receive an ICANN80 attendee badge.
To help reduce the queues, all attendees will be required to present their in-person registration confirmation emails (digital or printed), which will be scanned for entry. There will not be any onsite registration available. Accompanying persons and family members will not be permitted into the meeting space unless they are also registered as in-person attendees.
Badge Pickup Station hours on Ground Floor of KCC:
ICANN will conduct entrance scans of all attendee badges upon entry to ICANN80. The primary purpose is to enable email notifications to attendees of potential exposure to a confirmed positive COVID-19 case or other safety notifications.
Contact tracing will be implemented with digital badge scanners when entering the ICANN80 meeting space. Ushers will quickly scan a QR code printed on all attendee badges upon entry to the ICANN80 venue.
The printed badge QR code does not contain any personally identifiable information, and is a random generated identifier (ID) for each attendee. This ID can only be linked by ICANN org to a registration record for a health and safety notice notification report, which will allow ICANN to notify all on-site participants of potential exposures to COVID-19 or other safety notifications. Badge scanning upon entry is mandatory for all in-person attendees. Contact tracing will not be conducted for virtual participants.
We will use your data in accordance with our Privacy Policy and as explained in this FAQ.
ICANN org monitors local health and safety risks in addition to relevant advisories and guidance from governmental and related public agencies. We also work closely with our local partners supporting the event to develop and implement comprehensive event safety plans and procedures for a safe, healthy and productive meeting.
ICANN reserves the right to modify these plans if the situation prior to the meeting or during the meeting deems it necessary to curb an outbreak or reduce the overall risk to delegates.
As a reminder, adequate traveler and health insurance is the responsibility of the traveler, to ensure coverage of any costs incurred due to illness or injury while traveling.
This page contains information from third-party websites that are not under
the control of ICANN. Sources include both private and government websites. Any information included on this
page that is not directly related to ICANN or its operations is for informational purposes only and has not
been verified or reviewed by the ICANN organization.
