Local culture in the Netherlands

The Dutch are among the most liberal people in the world, so if you’re more conservative, it may take some time to adjust to the local culture in the Netherlands. Sex work is legal, regulated, and openly displayed in Amsterdam’s red-light districts. Although marijuana is not technically legal, it is decriminalised for personal use. It is sold in coffee shops in certain areas of the country.

Making new friends can be difficult when you move to the Netherlands, especially if you don’t speak Dutch, and establishing a social circle often takes time and effort. The Dutch tend to say it like it is, so you’ll know exactly where you stand with locals. This can seem abrasive, but having an open mind and a sense of humour will go a long way to easing your transition to life in the Netherlands.

Language barrier in the Netherlands

The Dutch language could be your biggest hurdle when you arrive. Locals are often multilingual, and in the big cities, most speak a reasonable level of English, French, or German. However, unless you can speak at least some basic Dutch, you might end up feeling isolated. Once you have a decent grasp of the language, you’ll likely find that locals seem friendlier, more helpful, and more encouraging. 

Interactive online platforms and apps like Duolingo can make learning Dutch more accessible and engaging. For a more immersive experience, language cafés and intensive courses at language centres or universities are excellent options. These courses are designed not only to teach you to speak Dutch but also to offer valuable insights into Dutch culture and history.

Work culture in the Netherlands

Concerning the work culture in the Netherlands, the Dutch love to have meetings or vergaderingen. They tend to run overtime since everyone, regardless of rank, needs to be heard. If a decision isn’t reached, they’ll often simply adjourn to the next meeting. Rank is also unimportant, and it’s not unusual to find bosses more approachable than you might have previously experienced.

The Dutch are proud of their work-life balance. Shorter working hours and flexible schedules allow a better blend of personal and professional lives. Hybrid working arrangements, combining remote and office work, have become increasingly common. Although it may be tricky to socialise with colleagues outside of work, the openness of Dutch workplaces often leads to a relaxed and productive environment.

Work Culture in the Netherlands

Religion and secularism in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has seen a notable shift towards secularism in recent decades, with around 60 percent of the population identifying as non-religious. Despite this, traditions rooted in Christianity, such as Easter, Christmas, and Sinterklaas, remain significant cultural events. These celebrations highlight how religion still influences local customs, even in an increasingly secular society.

Interfaith initiatives, such as World Interfaith Harmony Week and the efforts of the United Religions Initiative in the Netherlands, promote dialogue and understanding among diverse communities. These programmes help build social cohesion, making it easier for newcomers to find a sense of belonging, regardless of their beliefs.

Service in the Netherlands

The Netherlands isn’t the most service-oriented country. It’s normal to enter a shop and be left waiting unattended, and service in restaurants can be slow. Even the Dutch complain about the lack of good service in their country. 

If you find yourself facing slow service, patience and direct but polite communication go a long way. Many industries, especially financial services and tourism, have recently made efforts to enhance customer experiences through digital transformation and personalised service.

LGBTQ+ in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a pioneer in LGBTQ+ rights, being the first modern country to legalise same-sex marriage. It remains one of the most inclusive and progressive places globally, with strong protections and acceptance for LGBTQ+ individuals. Many cities, such as Amsterdam and Rotterdam, host lively Pride events and LGBTQ+ festivals that celebrate diversity and inclusion.

Initiatives like COC Netherlands and Transgender Netwerk Nederland advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and provide resources to support the community. The Dutch government actively champions these rights on a global stage, further solidifying the Netherlands as a beacon of equality. Public attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals in the Netherlands are generally positive, making it a welcoming destination for all.

Read more about LGBTQ+, Diversity and Inclusion in the Netherlands.

Women in the Netherlands

Gender equality is a cornerstone of Dutch society. Women in the Netherlands enjoy equal rights and opportunities, with significant representation in leadership roles across various sectors. Figures like Sigrid Kaag, the first female Minister of Finance, and Danielle van de Donk, a standout footballer, highlight the achievements of Dutch women.

Despite progress, challenges like the gender pay gap and under-representation in top corporate roles persist. The government continues to promote initiatives aimed at addressing these issues, such as encouraging economic independence for women and combating gender-based violence. These efforts, combined with societal shifts, aim to create a more equitable future for all.

Find out more about Gender Equality and Women in Leadership in the Netherlands.