Last updated on January 5th, 2025 at 07:23 am
The gambling industry in the Netherlands is a combination of tradition, modern approach and fair regulation by the government. Dutch casinos have gained popularity among local players and tourists alike, offering a unique experience, safety and a huge selection of games.
The Evolution of Dutch Casinos
The history of gambling in the Netherlands began with the adoption of the Gambling Act in 1964, which for a long time restricted the development of the industry, notes https://spellspann.com . With the advent of the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) in 2012 and the subsequent legalisation of online gambling in 2021, the market began to develop rapidly. This allowed the gaming offerings to adapt to the new realities and meet the growing demand for a variety of gambling formats.
The year 2023 was a watershed moment for the gambling sector. Land-based casinos, freed from the restrictions imposed by COVID-19, posted a 21.2 per cent year-on-year growth, reaching a gross gaming revenue (GGR) of €4 billion. This means that there has been a return of interest in traditional casinos, while online gaming has continued to gain popularity at a rapid pace.
Popular Casino Games
If you look at the stuffing of casinos in the Netherlands, the set of games is in line with the usual ideas of the gambling industry:
- Table games such as roulette and blackjack remain favourite pastimes in both land-based and online casinos. These games account for a significant share of the gambling sector’s revenue, thanks to the simplicity of the rules and opportunities for strategic play.
- Slot machines are hugely popular among players of all ages. They offer a variety of themes, a high level of graphics and interactivity, which attracts both newcomers and experienced players. In land-based casinos they take centre stage, while in the online format they often support modes with progressive jackpots.
- Games against other participants, such as poker and bingo, have also found an audience in the Netherlands. Despite their smaller share of total revenue (around 2 per cent), they continue to grow thanks to interactive features and online tournaments.
- The sports betting sector, although still smaller compared to casino games, is showing steady growth. In 2023, their presence increased by 9.7 per cent, with online betting taking 83 per cent of the market. Events such as the FIFA World Cup or Dutch driver Max Verstappen’s success in Formula 1 are causing a surge in betting interest.
Online Casinos in the Netherlands
The legalisation of online gambling in 2021 was an important step for the industry. Modern platforms offer a high level of convenience and accessibility. Online casinos provide users with a wide range of games, from classic to innovative, including live games with real croupiers.
The online gambling market showed a growth of 8 per cent in the first half of 2024, reaching €752 million. On average, Dutch players spent €158 per month on online gambling, making this segment a significant source of revenue. Young players (18-23 years old) are particularly active, although their spending per month is lower than older age groups.
The Netherlands is characterised by a strict approach to the regulation of online gambling. Kansspelautoriteit makes sure that licensed operators provide a safe and transparent environment for players. This means the mandatory implementation of self-regulatory tools such as betting limits and time limits.
Impact of Gambling on Society and Culture
Casinos in the Netherlands are not just about gambling, but also a social space where people can meet and enjoy the atmosphere and entertainment. Many venues host concerts, shows and other events, making them attractive to a wide audience.
It is worth saying that lotteries have a special place in Dutch culture. The largest operators, such as Staatsloterij and Nationale Postcode Loterij, contribute significantly to the economy and charity projects. In 2023, they accounted for 30 per cent of the total gambling market.
As we said, the Dutch market is known for its strict gambling advertising regulations. In 2022 there was a restriction on the use of role models in advertising campaigns, and in 2023 there was a ban on certain types of advertising. These measures aim to protect vulnerable groups, but also create challenges for operators in attracting new players.
But despite the challenging conditions, the Dutch market shows high potential. A combination of innovation, sustainable growth and a focus on social responsibility allows it to remain one of the leaders in Europe. Developments in technology, such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality, are predicted to further expand opportunities for players and operators in the Netherlands.
