5 facts about Utrecht Region’s favourable business climate

Veere 15 March 2022 3 min.

The Utrecht Region, located in the heart of the Netherlands, is rapidly emerging as one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for business relocation. With its strategic location, robust Dutch economy, and innovative business ecosystem, Utrecht offers unparalleled opportunities for companies looking to expand globally. Whether you’re a growing business seeking new markets or an investment company exploring Europe, the Utrecht Region provides the ideal environment for success.

Utrecht Region offers one of Europe’s most competitive and innovation-driven business environments. Its central location, strong talent base and high-quality research infrastructure have already attracted more than 1,000 international companies. Here are five key facts that explain why the region continues to stand out as a top destination for global business.

1. An excellent gateway to Europe

Located at the very heart of the Netherlands, Utrecht Region provides immediate access to major European logistics corridors. Utrecht Central Station is the country’s largest rail hub, offering seamless national and international connections. Schiphol Airport is only 30 minutes away and the Port of Rotterdam just 45 minutes, placing 145 million European consumers within a 500-km radius. For companies dependent on fast, reliable mobility, the region offers unmatched connectivity.

2. One of the strongest economic positions in the Netherlands

Utrecht Region has consistently ranked among the top performers in the European Regional Competitiveness Index, thanks to its strengths in infrastructure, human capital, health, innovation and sustainability. With the highest GDP per capita in the Randstad, the region benefits from strong purchasing power and economic resilience. It also continues to score as the most innovative region in the Netherlands, driven by its concentration of research institutions and forward-thinking companies.

3. A deep pool of skilled local and international talent

Talent is one of Utrecht Region’s greatest assets. The area attracts highly skilled professionals from across the Netherlands and abroad, supported by a thriving academic landscape. Utrecht University remains one of Europe’s most respected institutions and, together with other regional universities and applied sciences institutes, supplies a steady flow of graduates in IT, geoscience, medicine, veterinary medicine and the humanities. This concentration of knowledge makes the region a magnet for companies seeking both specialised and multidisciplinary talent.

Copyright: Edwin van Wanrooij

4. Home to the largest science park in the Netherlands

Utrecht Science Park continues to grow as the national hub for life sciences, health and sustainability research. Ten knowledge institutions and more than 130 R&D companies collaborate here in an environment designed for scientific and commercial breakthroughs. Researchers, clinicians, startups and global firms work side by side on innovations that are shaping the future — making the park a powerful engine for regional and international growth.

5. A beneficial and transparent tax system

Foreign companies in Utrecht Region benefit from the Netherlands’ favourable and reliable tax environment. The corporate tax system offers clarity, competitive rates and long-term predictability. The country’s extensive network of nearly 100 bilateral tax treaties helps prevent double taxation and reduces or eliminates withholding tax on dividends, interest and royalties. Combined with the absence of withholding tax on outgoing interest and royalty payments, this creates a stable and attractive fiscal climate for international business.