Flevoland

This old saying might sound a bit grandiose but it’s spot-on in the case of Flevoland. The creation and existence of Flevoland bring the saying to life. It’s a nod towards what we’re known for internationally: as out-of-the-box thinkers, change makers, engineers, and innovators.

Look close enough and you can still spot plenty of evidence tracing back to the province’s sea origins. Let’s begin with the most curious, yet probably most overlooked fact: the whole region is approximately four metres below sea level! Pretty strange to think about, right? But no need to worry, as the land is well-protected by a network of high dikes (structures that protect the land from flooding) and smart waterworks.

Both practical and pretty, Flevoland strikes a delicate balance. Those seeking the peace and quiet of nature will find it in the province’s rolling countryside and green areas such as the Oostvaardersplassen. What’s more is that during the springtime, the area explodes with colour. Holding the country’s largest expanse of tulip fields, Flevoland attracts visitors from far and wide looking to explore the tulip routes of Noordoostpolder. This is a great day out if you’re living in the region and have friends or family visiting.

On the other hand, if you’re a city lover, you’re not left out. Flevoland’s capital city, Lelystad, and the most populous city, Almere, offer the bustle of metropolitan life without the busyness of the Randstad. Developed in the 1960s and 1970s, the region’s cities are a feat of intelligent urban planning. Think wide streets, green suburbs, and modern architecture.

The region’s tulips are worth more than just their aesthetic value. Exported worldwide, they’re also an essential part of Flevoland’s economy and a symbol of the region’s agriculture sector. Flevoland is well-regarded in this field. The province’s agrifood capabilities and reputation open up an array of jobs in engineering, ICT, logistics, and trade roles. You’ll also find a diverse maritime sector, mainly thanks to the old fishing village of Urk. As a former island of the Zuiderzee, Urk is currently an important distribution centre for fish. 

Being an essential hotspot for logistics and engineering, Flevoland is always looking for fresh talent to help find smart solutions for the challenges of tomorrow. Flevoland sets its ambitions high: it wants to become the leading supplier of sustainable resources in the circular economy from 2030 onwards. To achieve this, the region is welcoming the brightest minds both from home and overseas.

Business is booming in Flevoland. Here, you’ll discover that local entrepreneurs, industry giants, and higher education institutions collide and collaborate. The number of companies in Almere and Lelystad is growing steadily. In total, more than 18,000 businesses, of which 150 are international companies, have set up shop in Almere, employing more than 80,000 people. Large international companies such as Yakult Group and Mitsubishi Turbocharger and Engine Europe B.V. join many others from a range of sectors. From retail and healthcare to IT and engineering, Flevoland embraces growth and innovation. Are you a pioneer at heart and does the ambition of Flevoland speak to you? Then, this young province might be exactly what you are looking for.

Reclaimed from the sea and situated below sea level, water is woven into the fabric of Flevoland. Learn more about the Netherlands’ relationship with water, from the Dutch maritime sector and water safety to eco-engineering.