Multinational City

For four centuries The Hague has been a multinational city. As the seat of the governing States General and the Republic's princes, it attracted foreign diplomats, soldiers, artists and craftsmen as long ago as the 16th century. Today people from all over the world come to sample the atmosphere of the city.

The municipality pursues a policy of supporting immigrants in the integration process and concentrates particularly on promoting social participation and combating disadvantage and deprivation.

Non-Dutch citizens who have resided legally in the Netherlands for at least five years may participate in local elections. The Constitution grants them the same rights as indigenous citizens.

• Different Cultures of The Hague
  An overview of a few of the many different communities living in The Hague.
• Tong Tong Festival
  The Tong Tong Festival (formerly Pasar Malam Besar) is the biggest Eurasian festival in the world. 

Like many international cities, The Hague has a Chinatown. Situated around the Wagenstraat, near the Bijenkorf department store, it is home to many Asian shops and restaurants. Enjoy dim sum delicacies, specialty shops, or just soak up the atmosphere during Chinese New Year celebrations. Click here for the Chinatown website.

With its 510 stalls the Haagse Markt on Herman Costerstraat is the largest open-air market in Europe. The international atmosphere and exotic selection make it well worth a visit. Here you can visit the website for the Haagse Markt.

The Paul Krugerlaan in the Transvaal neighbourhood offers a great variety of ethnic and exotic shops to meet every kind of taste, including Turkish and Hindustani specialities. Click here for the Paul Krugerlaan website.

Winkelcentrum de Bazar on the Hoefkade offers a number of shops specialised in African products.

The Brouwersgracht, with the Sarnámi House dedicated to the history and culture of the Hindustani community, is becoming livelier with a number of specialised shops.

Visit the site of City Mondial for more complete information about the multicultural experience in The Hague and look at a list of great shop addresses.