NATO summit in The Hague: What disruptions can Dutch residents expect?

For the first time ever, the NATO summit is being held in the Netherlands. Set to take place on June 24 and 25 in The Hague, the summit means the country has to make several preparations to ensure the safety of attendees, including the largest police operation in Dutch history. From road closures to fewer flights, here’s what residents of the Netherlands need to know about the 2025 NATO summit. 

Residents of the Netherlands should avoid Randstad during NATO summit 2025

The NATO summit is set to take place at the World Forum in The Hague on June 24 and 25. Dozens of world leaders and ministers, and thousands of delegation members, will attend. It has even been confirmed that US President Donald Trump will be in attendance.

Road users can expect traffic disruptions between Amsterdam, The Hague and Rotterdam from June 22 as preparations are made for the arrival of the attendees and the safety of the event. Due to the closure of motorways, expected traffic congestion and diversions, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management (Rijkswaterstaat) has advised drivers to work from home and avoid the Randstad as much as possible until June 26. The agency urges those who need to travel to use public transport instead. 

While trains will still be running normally during the event, the Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) is not expanding the timetable, so crowds are expected on Dutch trains. Buses, trams and metros in The Hague will run on an adjusted timetable from Monday, June 23 until Wednesday, June 25, so travellers should keep an eye on the journey planner before departure, travel app 9292 announced.

Residents can find more information on accessibility during the NATO summit on The Hague municipality website. 

Schiphol Airport faces disruptions during NATO summit

Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam confirmed that it has been designated as the point of arrival and departure for delegations during the NATO summit. Due to this, one runway has been closed to use as parking spaces for the private jets of world leaders and there are several airspace restrictions. 

With another runway being closed for maintenance, air traffic has to be scaled back. Several airlines, including KLM, Transavia and EasyJet, have had to cancel or rebook some 100.000 passenger tickets during the summit, reports De Telegraaf. 

Not only are there fewer flights, but the Dutch airport will also be harder to access due to road closures. Amsterdam’s big party to celebrate the city’s 750th birthday is also taking place on the A10 ring road on June 21, which means that the disruptions will start from June 20 and last until June 27, the airport said in a notice to passengers.