Ever wonder where Amsterdam’s biggest events happen? Right here at the RAI Amsterdam.
The RAI Amsterdam has a long history. It started as a bicycle industry association in 1893. Over a century it grew into a leading trade fair and conference organization.
The very first RAI exhibition was in 1895. It took place at the Paleis voor Volksvlijt. The RAI didn’t have its own building then.
Until 1922 the RAI used other spaces. In 1922, it moved to its own building. This was on the Ferdinand Bolstraat in Amsterdam. The building had 13000 m2 of space. More exhibitors and visitors came. The RAI building became too small.
The city of Amsterdam helped finance a new complex. The RAI Association and the city partnered. They formed a limited partnership. This financed the RAI Amsterdam.
In 1961, the RAI moved to Europaplein. Over the years, more halls were added. The Europahal is well-known. The RAI attracted international events. These events included Horecava and the International Broadcasting Convention. Kingsland and Amsterdam Winterparadijs also take place here.
Many important people have visited the RAI Amsterdam. In 1968, Martin Luther King spoke here. He addressed hundreds of people about change. During AIDS2018, Bill Clinton and Prince Harry spoke. They discussed the global epidemic’s impact. Big names have performed on the RAI’s stage. Frank Sinatra, Ike & Tina Turner, and U2 all played here. These events inspire people. They also share knowledge.
The RAI Amsterdam continues to grow. In 2009, the Elicium expansion was completed. Amtrium opened in 2015. An underground car park followed in 2016. The RAI’s first hotel opened in January 2020.
Europahal RAI is a Rijksmonument. The advertising pillar in front is too. The RAI Association owns 75% of the complex. The city of Amsterdam owns the rest.
The RAI welcomes many guests each year. It hosts fairs and conferences. Some events have 50000 people. The RAI takes care of every detail.
The RAI focuses on sustainable development. It balances social, ecological, and economic value. The events at the RAI increasingly contribute to this.
As you stand here at the RAI Amsterdam, you’re at a place where bicycles, automobiles, and ideas converge.