BACKGROUND: Unplanned extubation is the removal of an endotracheal tube accidently during procedural activities or by the action of the patient. It is one of the commonly reported complications among mechanically ventilated patients in the intensive care unit. This study aimed to assess the magnitude and associated factors of unplanned extubation in intensive care units at referral hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2021. METHODS: Institutional based prospective observational study was conducted on 317 intubated patients in the intensive care unit at referral hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from January 8, 2021-May 9, 2021. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statics were expressed in percentages and presented with tables and figures. Both Bivariable and multivariable logistic analysis was done to identify factors associated with unplanned extubation in intensive care unit. P < 0.05 with 95% CI was set as Statistical significance. RESULT: The prevalence of unplanned extubation in this study was 19.74%. Being male (AOR = 3.132, 95%CI: 1.276-7.69), duration of intubation <5days (AOR = 2.475, 95% CI: 1.039-5.894), managed by junior resident (AOR = 5.25, 95% CI: 2.125-12.969), being physically restrained (AOR = 4.356, 95%CI: 1.786-10.624), night shift (AOR = 3.282, 95%CI:1.451-7.424)and agitation (AOR = 4.934,95%CI:1.934-12.586) were significantly contribute to the occurrence of unplanned extubation. CONCLUSION: and recommendation: This study showed that the prevalence of unplanned extubation was high in the intensive care unit. We suggest to intensive care unit staff to give special attention to early intubated patients, especially male individuals and the stakeholders of hospitals should rearrange the time of shift and physician schedules in the intensive care unit.