Netherlands

The Netherlands is a wonderful country in Western Europe, known for its picturesque canals, windmills, vibrant tulip fields, and rich cultural heritage. A popular destination for travellers from the UAE, it has a unique flat landscape, a significant part of which is below sea level, forming the country's distinctive appearance. The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam, attracts visitors with its unique atmosphere, historic buildings, and numerous museums. For Muslim travellers, major cities like Amsterdam offer a variety of halal food options, from Turkish and Moroccan to Indonesian cuisine, as well as several mosques and prayer facilities.

The cultural life of the Netherlands is rich and diverse. The country has gifted the world with great artists, whose masterpieces can be seen in world-renowned museums such as the Rijksmuseum. The Dutch are known for their openness, innovative approach, and love for bicycles – this mode of transport is an integral part of daily life and an excellent way to explore the cities and their surroundings.

The Netherlands offers tourists more than just urban experiences. Here you can enjoy the beauty of nature by strolling through national parks or relaxing on the North Sea coast. The temperate maritime climate makes travel comfortable at any time of the year. For family fun and unforgettable adventures, the famous Efteling theme park is ideal. Overall, the Netherlands leaves the impression of a welcoming, hospitable, and very photogenic country that you will want to return to again and again.

The official currency of the Netherlands is the euro (EUR), as it is in most countries within the European Union. Euro banknotes are consistent across the entire eurozone and come in denominations of €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, and €200. The €500 banknote is no longer issued but remains legal tender, though it is rarely seen in daily transactions. The banknotes depict stylised architectural elements from various European historical periods. Euro coins have a common side and a national side; coins minted in the Netherlands feature a portrait of King Willem-Alexander (and previously, Queen Beatrix).

You can exchange foreign currency at banks, official exchange offices like GWK Travelex, or withdraw euros directly from the numerous ATMs (geldautomaat). It is advisable to compare exchange rates and commission fees, as these can vary significantly. Exchanging money at airports or hotels is often less favourable. Credit and debit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in most large shops, restaurants, and hotels. However, the Netherlands has a strong debit card culture, and smaller shops, local markets, or some cafés may prefer cash or local Maestro/V PAY debit cards. Therefore, it is always useful to carry some cash for smaller purchases.

When planning a trip to the Netherlands, it's important to understand the visa requirements in advance. For holders of a UAE passport, visa-free travel to the Netherlands and other Schengen Area countries is permitted for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, residents of the UAE holding other passports may need to apply for a Schengen visa.

Regardless of visa requirements, you will need a valid passport to enter the country. It is also highly recommended to carry proof of a return flight, accommodation bookings, and travel medical insurance that covers your entire stay. As visa regulations and entry requirements can change, it is essential to check the most current information on the official website of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the UAE before you travel.

The Netherlands operates on two main time zones, a key detail to consider when planning your trip. The European part of the country, including cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, is in the Central European Time (CET) zone. In winter, this is UTC+1, which is 3 hours behind the UAE. During summer, the clocks move forward for Central European Summer Time (CEST), making it UTC+2 and 2 hours behind the UAE.

However, the Caribbean islands that are special municipalities of the Netherlands – Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba – follow Atlantic Standard Time (AST). This corresponds to UTC-4 all year round, as they do not observe daylight saving. This makes the Caribbean Netherlands 8 hours behind the UAE. Therefore, if your plans include visiting both the European and Caribbean parts of the Netherlands, be sure to note this significant time difference to correctly schedule your flights and activities.

The Netherlands is a country with a highly developed transport infrastructure, and there are several convenient ways to get there. For travellers from the UAE, the most popular and practical option is, without a doubt, by air. Major airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, and KLM offer daily direct flights from hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi to the Netherlands. The country's main gateway is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (Amsterdam), one of the largest and busiest hubs in Europe, connecting the Netherlands to the rest of the world.

Thanks to its location in Western Europe, the Netherlands is also easy to reach via ground transport, which is ideal if you are planning a multi-destination European trip. The country shares borders with Germany and Belgium, and high-speed trains (such as Thalys and ICE) and comfortable international buses (like Eurolines and FlixBus) run regularly. For those travelling from the United Kingdom, sea transport is another option, with ferries connecting Dutch ports like Rotterdam (Europoort) and Hook of Holland to the east coast of England (for instance, Harwich and Hull).

When planning your trip, especially during peak tourist season (typically the summer months, April-May for the tulip season, and the Christmas holidays), it is advisable to book your tickets in advance. This will not only help you save money but also guarantee availability on your chosen flights, trains, or ferries. Early booking is also recommended for securing good deals on accommodation.

For your reference, here is a summary of the main international airports in the country:

The Netherlands is a country that offers a wonderful variety of experiences, from bustling metropolises to peaceful coastal resorts and historic towns. Every traveller will find something to suit their taste, whether it's cultural enrichment, a relaxing nature retreat, or exciting shopping. For Muslim travellers, major cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague are particularly accommodating, with a growing number of halal restaurants and accessible mosques.

Naturally, an introduction to the country often begins with its capital, Amsterdam. This city is famous for its picturesque canals, rich history, world-renowned museums, and unique, vibrant atmosphere. For those who love a beach holiday, Scheveningen is an excellent choice, a popular resort on the North Sea coast with a long sandy beach, a pier, and plenty of entertainment. If you are drawn to history and ancient architecture, head to Maastricht, one of the country's oldest cities, with its medieval streets and charming squares. For connoisseurs of designer brands and bargain shopping, a visit to Roermond is a must, as it is known for its large designer outlet centre with over 185 stores.

Beyond these iconic locations, the Netherlands boasts other fascinating destinations. For example, the charming fishing village of Volendam offers an immersion into traditional Dutch culture, while Zandvoort provides another dose of sea breeze and racing circuits. Each of these cities and resorts has its own unique charm and is ready to offer unforgettable experiences.

The Netherlands is a country that surprises not only with its picturesque canals and windmills but also with its rich cultural heritage and modern entertainment. Here, every traveller will find attractions to suit their taste, from world-renowned art galleries to magical theme parks.

A visit to the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is a must for any art enthusiast. This magnificent national museum houses a vast collection of masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age, including famous paintings by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Hals. You can spend hours wandering through its halls, immersing yourself in the country's history and culture. The museum also provides a quiet room that can be used for meditation or prayer.

Not far from the Rijksmuseum is another iconic landmark – the Van Gogh Museum. It features the world's largest collection of works by the great post-impressionist artist Vincent van Gogh. Visitors can trace the artist's creative journey, see his famous self-portraits, "Sunflowers," and many other paintings, as well as learn about his life and inspiration.

For a family holiday and lovers of fairy tales, Efteling is the perfect choice – one of Europe's oldest and most charming theme parks. Here, beloved fairy-tale characters come to life, and thrilling attractions, from rollercoasters to enchanted forests, provide unforgettable experiences for both children and adults. The park is renowned for its unique atmosphere and attention to detail. For visitors, several quiet rooms are available which can be used for prayer, and some restaurants offer halal food options.

If you are looking for a combination of active recreation and water-based fun, head to Duinrell. This popular amusement park offers a wide range of entertainment for all ages, and its main highlight is the "Tiki Pool" tropical water park with numerous slides and pools. It is an excellent place to spend a fun-filled day with the whole family. While specific halal-certified options are not widely advertised, various vegetarian and fish dishes are available at the park's restaurants.

The Netherlands is a country that is attractive to tourists at any time of year; however, the best period for your trip depends on your preferences. The high season traditionally lasts from late spring to early autumn, approximately from May to September. During these months, the weather is most favourable, with many sunny days and mild temperatures (averaging 18-22°C) that are ideal for cycling, exploring cities like Amsterdam, and enjoying boat trips along the canals. All tourist attractions are fully operational, and numerous festivals take place. The downsides of this period are the large number of tourists and, consequently, higher prices for accommodation and flights from the UAE.

The shoulder seasons and winter offer a completely different experience. Spring (March-May) is a truly magical time to visit the Netherlands, primarily thanks to the world-famous tulip bloom, which typically peaks in April. The weather can be changeable, with temperatures ranging from cool to mild, but the chance to see the endless flower fields attracts many. Outside of the flower regions, there are generally fewer tourists at this time than in the summer. Autumn (October-November) delights travellers with golden landscapes, a calmer atmosphere, and lower prices. The weather becomes cooler but often brings crisp, dry days. The low season (December-February) is the time for those seeking solitude and good value. Although the days are shorter and the weather is colder (with average temperatures around 2-4°C) with a chance of rain or snow, it is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the cosiness of Dutch cities, visit museums without queues, and experience the charming Christmas markets in December. It is also worth noting that major national holidays, such as King's Day (27th April), attract huge crowds, so if your goal is to see these celebrations, plan your trip well in advance.

When planning a trip to the Netherlands, it is useful to familiarise yourself with some local cultural customs to ensure your journey is as comfortable and pleasant as possible. The Dutch are known for their directness and informality in communication. When meeting and greeting, it is customary to shake hands with both men and women, and eye contact is important. Although the Dutch are quick to use first names, especially with younger people, it is best to start a conversation with the respectful form of 'you' (U). Hospitality is valued, and if you are invited to someone's home, it is good manners to bring a small gift for the hosts, such as flowers (avoid bouquets of 13 or white lilies), quality chocolates, or a non-alcoholic beverage. For non-Muslim hosts, a bottle of wine can also be an appropriate gift. Punctuality is an important quality, so try not to be late for appointments.

In daily life, the Dutch prefer comfortable and practical clothing; there is no specific dress code for public places. However, when visiting churches or other religious sites, it is important to show respect by choosing a more modest outfit that covers the shoulders and knees. At the dining table, standard European etiquette is followed: do not start eating until your hosts begin or invite you to do so. It is not customary to place your elbows on the table, and it is best to keep your hands visible. For travellers from the UAE, finding halal food is straightforward in major cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, which have numerous halal restaurants, takeaways, and supermarkets. Many mosques are also present in these cities, providing accessible prayer facilities. The Dutch value honesty and openness, so do not be surprised by direct questions – this is part of the culture. Try to avoid overly loud behaviour in public places and excessive boastfulness, as this can be perceived negatively. Discussing income and personal finances is considered impolite.

Among the many holidays, two stand out in particular. King's Day (Koningsdag), celebrated on 27th April, is perhaps the largest and most cheerful national holiday. The entire country dresses in orange (the family colour of the royal House of Orange-Nassau), and there are street markets, concerts, and public festivities everywhere. Another significant and beloved holiday, especially for children, is Sinterklaas, celebrated on the evening of 5th December. This is a traditional winter festival when Saint Nicholas (Sinterklaas) arrives from Spain and gives gifts to children, accompanied by poems and sweets, creating a special, magical atmosphere.

The Netherlands offers a surprising variety of entertainment to suit all tastes, capable of satisfying the demands of very different travellers. For lovers of active recreation, the country, famous for its flat plains, is ideal for cycling along picturesque routes and leisurely hiking. Its numerous canals, lakes, and the North Sea coast create excellent conditions for water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking, especially during the summer months.

The cultural life in the Netherlands is rich and multifaceted. The country prides itself on its world-class museums, which house masterpieces by great artists, as well as numerous contemporary art galleries. In the evening, you can enjoy theatrical performances, and classical or modern music concerts, particularly in vibrant cultural hubs like Amsterdam. Festivals and cultural events are held regularly throughout the country, reflecting the nation's rich heritage and creative spirit. Many cities have dedicated prayer facilities and mosques available for daily prayers.

As darkness falls, many cities in the Netherlands come alive, offering a diverse nightlife: from cosy traditional cafés to stylish lounges and lively clubs where you can dance until morning. Shopping in the Netherlands is also a unique pleasure. In addition to world-famous souvenirs like Delft porcelain, delicious cheeses, and tulip bulbs, you can find designer boutiques, large shopping centres, and popular outlets, for instance, in the city of Roermond, which attract fashion enthusiasts. When sampling the famous Dutch cheeses, it is advisable to check for vegetarian or halal-certified options, as some traditional recipes may use animal rennet.

For a family holiday, the Netherlands also offers a wealth of exciting opportunities. Famous theme parks, most notably Efteling, provide unforgettable experiences for both children and adults with their magical rides and fairytale atmosphere. Furthermore, the numerous zoos, interactive science museums, and water parks make the country an extremely attractive destination for the whole family to travel to. Halal food options are widely available in major cities, with many restaurants serving Turkish, Indonesian, and Moroccan cuisine.

Planning a trip? Excellent! To avoid any financial surprises on your journey, it’s important to remember that currency exchange rates are constantly changing. Therefore, we highly recommend monitoring the latest rates both before you depart and throughout your trip. You can use the data provided below for this — we monitor currency exchange rates 24/7 and strive to provide the most up-to-date information.