Ambitious plans for RAI site

Since the 1960s, the RAI complex in Europaplein has been organising trade shows and conferences, forging connections between the different industries. In order to move with the times, RAI now intends to undergo a thorough modernisation and sustainability upgrade. At the same time, both the RAI and the City of Amsterdam see redevelopment as an opportunity to contribute to the city’s ambitions, in the form of housing, amenities and green areas. Of course, all of this must be able to go hand-in-hand with RAI’s core activity as an internationally renowned convention centre.

Dynamic urban area

Amsterdam’s popularity remains undiminished and is growing by 10,000 inhabitants every year. There is only limited space available to keep the fast-growing city liveable, affordable and accessible. The RAI aims to contribute to the city of the future by developing the RAI site into a place with space for housing, amenities and green areas that is also more effectively connected with the surrounding neighbourhood. It also aims to provide space for innovative solutions to urban problems, such as a mobility hub to reduce traffic movements and disruption.

Connection with the neighbourhood

There is also an ambition to make the site more attractive and liveable for the immediate neighbourhood, for example by offering amenities that target the local community. RAI intends to investigate these possibilities in the period ahead. This will include the launch later this year of a participation programme, in which the local neighbourhood will be invited to contribute ideas on the intended plans.

Basic principles and agreements

Previously, the City of Amsterdam compiled a Memorandum of Principles (Uitgangspuntennota). This includes the municipal policy to which the plans will need to adhere. The memorandum was approved by the Amsterdam City Executive on the 16 July 2024 and can be found using the link below.

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