Amsterdam

Amsterdam mayor insists on cutting tourism despite hospitality bankruptcies after EU rejects stricter Airbnb rules for primary homes. New EU law targets second homes only, leaving Amsterdam's 30-night limit intact. For expats: fewer crowds, more empty tables.

A 61-year-old prison employee was shot dead after a confrontation over a loose dog near Amsterdam's NDSM ferry dock. The suspect, with a violent criminal record, surrendered at the scene. Investigators are probing a possible prison connection between the two men.

Amsterdam taxi drivers launched NLCabs on September 1, 2026, a rival ride-hailing app that takes only 3% commission from drivers, aiming to challenge Uber's dominance. The launch comes amid years of disputes over worker rights and a recent €825 million fine on Uber by Dutch regulators. Uber also announced 3,300 layoffs days later as it pivots to autonomous driving. For expats, NLCabs could mean cheaper rides and more driver accountability.

Amsterdam and Utrecht have stopped fining people for sleeping outside, but nuisance complaints have surged. Mayor Halsema calls for national action on mental healthcare and labor migration reform. For expats, this means more visible homelessness in public spaces and a reminder that tied housing contracts can leave migrant workers vulnerable.