AMSTERDAM

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is renowned for its historic canals, cultural heritage, and vibrant economy. Founded in 1275, the city has evolved from a small fishing village into a major global hub. As of June 2024, Amsterdam's population stands at approximately 933,680 residents. The city is divided into seven districts: Centrum, Nieuw-West, Noord, Oost, West, Zuid, and Zuidoost. Additionally, the urban area of Weesp was incorporated into the municipality in March 2022. 

Amsterdam covers a total area of 219.32 square kilometers. The city operates under a municipal government structure, comprising a directly elected municipal council, a municipal executive, and a mayor. As of 2025, the mayor is Femke Halsema. The city's postal codes range from 1000 to 1183, and the area code is 020. Amsterdam is in the Central European Time zone (CET), observing UTC +1, and during daylight saving time, Central European Summer Time (CEST), UTC +2. 

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol serves as the primary international airport, facilitating global connectivity. The Amsterdam metropolitan area boasts a GDP of €201.1 billion as of 2022. In 2025, Amsterdam celebrates its 750th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its rich history. The city is also set to host the 14th World Cities Culture Summit in October 2025, coinciding with the anniversary celebrations. Amsterdam's extensive canal system, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflects its historical significance and continues to be a defining feature of the city's landscape. 

The city is home to numerous cultural institutions, including the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Anne Frank House, attracting millions of visitors annually. Amsterdam's economy is diverse, with strengths in finance, technology, and creative industries, making it a dynamic and influential city on the global stage.

• As of January 2024, Amsterdam's population is approximately 931,298 residents.
• In 2023, Amsterdam welcomed over 23 million visitors, making it one of the most-visited cities globally.
• The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam attracted 2.7 million visitors in 2023.
• In 2023, tourists spent nearly €105 billion in the Netherlands, with domestic tourism accounting for half of this increase.
• Amsterdam's urban area population is projected to reach 1,189,000 by 2025.
• In 2023, Amsterdam had 505 hotels, offering a total of 41,347 rooms.
• The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam received 1.7 million visitors in 2023.
• In 2023, Amsterdam experienced 10.1 tourist arrivals per resident, highlighting the city's overtourism challenges.
• The Anne Frank House in Amsterdam had approximately 1.3 million visitors in 2023.
• In 2023, Amsterdam's tourism tax revenue amounted to €165 million, reflecting the city's significant tourist influx.

The city council, the College of Mayors and Alderpersons, and the district committees together form the Amsterdam city government. The city council is the highest governing body and consists of elected representatives of the people of Amsterdam. City council elections are held every four years. At that time, Amsterdam’s residents vote to elect the 45 members of the city council. They also vote for a district committee to manage their city district. The College of Mayor and Alderpersons is responsible for daily operations and policy implementation. The city council chooses the alderpersons (also known as deputy mayors). There are seven alderpersons, each with their own portfolio of topics. The mayor is the chairperson of both the College of Mayor and Alderpersons and the city council. The national government appoints the mayor. The meetings of the College of Mayor and Alderpersons are not open to the public.

Amsterdam has seven city districts: Centre, Nieuw-West, Noord, Oost, West, Zuid, Zuidoost. Each city district is managed by a district committee. The College of Mayor and Alderpersons appoints three managing directors in each city district. The managing directors are supported by an advisory committee. The number of committee members depends on number of inhabitants of the district. The committee is the link between the district and City Hall. They deal with important topics in the district, such as the design of streets and squares, public greenery and parks, household waste collection, and social work in the neighbourhood.

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, serves as a pivotal economic hub within the nation and the broader European context. As of January 2024, the city's population stands at approximately 931,298 residents. The city's economy is diverse, encompassing sectors such as finance, technology, trade, and tourism.

In 2023, Amsterdam welcomed over 23 million visitors, underscoring the significance of tourism to its economy. This influx of tourists has bolstered various industries, including hospitality, retail, and cultural institutions. The city is home to renowned museums like the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, which attracted 2.7 million and 1.7 million visitors respectively in 2023.

The financial sector remains a cornerstone of Amsterdam's economy, with numerous multinational corporations and financial institutions establishing their European headquarters in the city. This presence has fostered a robust business environment, contributing to employment and economic growth. There are many foreign investors choose to purchase a shelf company in order to start their businesses rapidly. 

In terms of economic performance, the Netherlands experienced a GDP growth of 0.8% in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the previous quarter. This growth was primarily driven by public and household consumption. Projections indicate that the Dutch economy will continue to expand, with anticipated growth rates of 0.8% in 2024 and 1.6% in 2025.

Inflation has been on a downward trend, decreasing from 11.6% in 2022 to 4.1% in 2023. This decline is expected to continue, with forecasts suggesting inflation rates of 3.2% in 2024 and 2.4% in 2025. The labour market remains strong, with unemployment rates projected to remain below 4% through 2025.

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, offers a dynamic and conducive business environment, attracting enterprises across various sectors. The city is renowned for its strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and a highly educated, multilingual workforce. As a major European transportation hub, Amsterdam provides excellent connectivity through its extensive network of roads, railways, and the Port of Amsterdam, the fourth-largest port in Europe. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, located nearby, is one of Europe's busiest airports, facilitating seamless international travel and trade.

The city's financial district, known as the Zuidas or 'Financial Mile,' hosts numerous multinational corporations, financial institutions, and legal firms. This area has become a focal point for business activities, offering modern facilities and a conducive environment for corporate operations. Amsterdam's commitment to sustainability is evident, being the first city globally to adopt the doughnut economic model, aiming to balance ecological sustainability with economic growth. This approach has fostered a culture of innovation, particularly in sectors like technology, finance, and creative industries.

The local government actively supports business development through favourable tax policies and incentives, encouraging both startups and established companies to establish their presence in the city. The workforce is characterized by a high level of education and proficiency in multiple languages, enhancing the city's appeal to international businesses. Additionally, Amsterdam's quality of life, cultural diversity, and openness contribute to its reputation as an attractive destination for professionals and entrepreneurs worldwide.

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, boasts a comprehensive and modern infrastructure that supports its status as a major European hub. The city's transportation network is highly developed, featuring an extensive system of roads, railways, and waterways. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, located approximately 15 kilometres southwest of the city centre, is one of Europe's busiest airports, facilitating both passenger travel and cargo transport.

The Port of Amsterdam ranks as the fourth-largest port in Europe, playing a crucial role in international trade and logistics. The city's public transportation system includes buses, trams, and metros, providing efficient connectivity across urban and suburban areas. Cycling is deeply ingrained in Amsterdam's culture, with an extensive network of dedicated bike lanes and parking facilities. The city aims for cycling to account for 35% of all trips by 2030, enhancing sustainability and reducing traffic congestion.

In terms of digital infrastructure, Amsterdam has been proactive in developing its 'smart' electrical grid, integrating advanced technologies to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability. The city has also invested in cultural infrastructure, with over 25 institutions built, rebuilt, or refurbished in the past two decades, including the Rijksmuseum and the Stedelijk Museum.

Green spaces are integral to Amsterdam's urban planning. The Green Infrastructure Vision 2050 outlines the city's commitment to enhancing green areas, aiming to create a pleasant and healthy living environment while addressing challenges like droughts and heatwaves.

Amsterdam is a thriving tech and ICT hub. A prominent choice for international professionals, the city is home to an open and creative tech scene and numerous innovative companies. 

There is an impressive digital infrastructure – the Amsterdam Internet Exchange (AMS-IX) is one of the world’s largest data transport hubs. Various tech conferences and many accelerators and incubator programs for start-ups cement Amsterdam’s position as a vibrant startup hub and make it an ideal place to validate and tweak business models.