Finding your office space in the Netherlands

Flexas.com presents this guide to help you find the right office space for you in the Netherlands.

Finding office space is never easy. Location, price, vibe, flexibility - sourcing a place that ticks all your boxes can be exhausting work. If you're new to the country, it can be even harder, as you don't have that insider, local knowledge that can stop you from chasing dead-ends. 

This article will help you understand all that you need to know about finding office space in the Netherlands, including the practicalities of renting an office, an overview of which cities are popular with businesses and what office culture is like in the Netherlands.

Office rentals in the Netherlands

The hunt for office space can be demoralising. Here's some information and tips that should make your search easier.

Help is out there

The Netherlands is a densely populated country with a competitive market. However, with the help of a real estate broker, you’ll have a better chance of finding the right space. But should you need something at once, there are solutions available such as co-working spaces where you can rent a desk.

Pricing and service fees

While rental regulations are evolving, understanding office pricing can be tricky. Miscellaneous costs besides rent itself, such as service fees for cleaning and utilities, are common. Starting in 2025, these fees must be itemised for transparency, which is great news for would-be tenants!

Language barriers in contracts

For those who struggle with speaking Dutch, language may be an obstacle. Dutch legalese can be difficult to grasp even for native speakers, after all. However, there are realtors who are more than willing to accommodate non-Dutch speakers. In any case, it’s wise to enquire about a contract in English to ensure that you do not sign anything you are unsure of.

Reliable providers

Finding the perfect partner for your office space needs can be a challenge. However, there are reliable providers out there. One thing to look out for is whether they are a well-established realtor company, with years of experience.

This not only means they have been keeping their customers happy for years, but they also have all the insider information. Don't forget to check third-party reviews on websites such as Google.

Popular cities for businesses in the Netherlands

While you can technically set up shop anywhere these days, having an office in a vibrant commercial district can help give your business both prestige and provide it with great networking opportunities. While the Netherlands is small, each city has a distinct character, and has something different to offer its inhabitants. Here are some of the best places to locate your business in the Netherlands.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the Netherlands' capital, is the most expensive city for real estate. Known for its history of liberty and equality, it’s part of a trifecta with Rotterdam and The Hague. As the cultural capital, it’s home to the Zuidas business district, featuring modern offices and excellent public transport.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam, the Netherlands' logistics capital, hosts Europe’s largest seaport, making it key for trade and supply chain professionals. It’s also a creative hub with the Willem de Kooning Academy, fostering a vibrant media and design industry.

The Hague

The Hague, the political capital of the Netherlands, is known as the city of peace and justice. Home to institutions like the International Criminal Court, Peace Palace, and Dutch Parliament, it’s a hub for diplomacy and international law. Its dynamic ecosystem also attracts legal professionals, NGOs, and entrepreneurs.

Eindhoven

Eindhoven, the technological heart of the Netherlands, is an innovation hub anchored by Philips and the High Tech Campus. With TU Eindhoven producing skilled graduates, it’s ideal for tech companies seeking top talent. Well-connected and offering a high quality of life, Eindhoven blends a legacy of technological leadership with a forward-thinking community.

Haarlem

Haarlem is a smaller city than the others here. It benefits from an extremely close location to Amsterdam, but has a much quieter and calmer vibe to the capital. This cute, medieval city is perfect for those who want access to Amsterdam but don't need to be based there all the time.  

Dutch office culture

Dutch office culture has several unique characteristics that come from Dutch cultural values:

• Horizontal power structure: Offices typically have fewer hierarchical layers, promoting collaboration and consensus-driven decision-making.
• Work-life balance: The Dutch prioritise efficiency, leading to shorter workdays and minimal overtime.
• Sustainability: Offices emphasise eco-friendly practices, including eliminating single-use plastics. From 2025, larger businesses must adhere to strict sustainability standards.

Below is a summary of a few key points of cultural differences between the Netherlands and other countries’ office cultures.

• Work-life balance is sacred, with a focus on personal well-being.
• Egalitarianism means superiors and staff are treated as equals.
• Punctuality is highly valued, and meetings start on time.
• Informality is common, with first-name interactions even among senior staff.

Secure your ideal space

It can seem like a lot to deal with, but with the right knowledge and preparation, finding the right space for you doesn't have to be hard. Don't forget to ask for help from local professionals, and make sure you know what you're signing!

Whether you’re drawn to the vibrancy of Amsterdam, the innovation of Eindhoven, or the tranquillity of Haarlem, there is a city to suit every professional. By using the tips in this guide, you will be well on your way to securing the ideal office space and thriving in the Netherlands.

At Flexas.com, they have the expertise you need to choose the right office spaces. Feel free to contact them for a free consultation and find the right office space for your company.