rssSep 17, 2026, 21:12

Is the city's tourism policy driving away the wrong visitors? Coalition refuses to change course

Amsterdam is facing concerns that its tourism policy, including the world's highest tourist tax, is deterring business travelers and convention organizers instead of just targeting nuisance tourists. Despite warnings from the hospitality sector and the RAI convention center about declining occupancy and potential contract cancellations, the city's coalition government maintains it has no plans to change course.

Politics Economy Business Lifestyle Amsterdam Netherlands

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2027 budget: civil service reorganization delayed, little room for new investments

The Amsterdam city government has presented its 2027 budget, which reveals limited room for new investments due to rising interest costs and existing financial commitments. The city plans to focus on maintaining essential services and reducing the municipal workforce by 2,500 full-time positions, though the reorganization timeline has already been delayed.

Prinsjesdag 2026: what the Budget Memorandum means for Amsterdam

The 2026 Dutch budget, or 'Miljoenennota', presents both opportunities and uncertainties for Amsterdam, particularly regarding infrastructure projects like the Zuidasdok and long-term municipal funding. While the city's executive board welcomes investments in housing and economy, they have expressed a need for greater ambition in areas such as climate, public transport, and youth care.

City's economic growth no longer guaranteed: business clubs warn

Business leaders in Amsterdam are raising concerns that the city's economic growth is under pressure due to local government policies. They warn that increased costs, regulatory burdens, and a lack of focus on entrepreneurship are harming the business and investment climate, leading to a decline in lucrative business travelers.

Massive layoff wave at Amsterdam municipality: 2500 full-time jobs at risk, internal document reveals

Internal documents reveal that the municipality of Amsterdam plans to cut 2,500 full-time jobs from its civil service to reduce expenses. This initiative includes significant staff reductions at departments like the GGD Amsterdam, with final decisions expected to be made by Alderman Hendrik Jan Biemond in the spring of 2027.

Hotel in 'Kinkerbuurt hole' approved after years-long battle, but neighborhood continues fight

Residents of the Kinkerbuurt neighborhood in Amsterdam continue their long-standing legal battle to prevent the construction of a long-stay hotel. Despite a recent ruling by the Council of State favoring the developer, opponents argue that upcoming government rental regulations will render the project unviable and intend to challenge the necessary operating permits.