The Hague, the Dutch seat of government and home to over 500 international organisations, is pushing to restore its direct rail connection to Brussels in Belgium by 2029. The city, which hosts institutions like the International Criminal Court, the United Nation’s International Court of Justice, and Europol, currently lacks a direct passenger link to the political heart of Europe. This gap is particularly striking given The Hague’s role as a global hub for peace, justice, and diplomacy, alongside its cultural and economic appeal.

The city’s ambition is clear: to become a fully fledged gateway to Europe, with direct train services not only to Brussels but also to Paris in France and Berlin in Germany. 

The Netherlands’ upcoming presidency of the EU Council in 2029 provides a natural deadline for realising this vision. Mayor Jan van Zanen has emphasised the importance of the connection, stating, “It’s more than just a train service, it’s a link between people, ideas, and opportunities”.

A strong case for restoration

The direct rail link between The Hague and Brussels was discontinued in 2021, forcing passengers to transfer in Rotterdam or Schiphol. This has extended travel times, reduced comfort, and increased the risk of missed connections. For business travellers, diplomats, and conference attendees, the lack of a direct service is a significant inconvenience. 

The Municipality of The Hague’s lobby to restore the link has gained momentum, with broad political and administrative support. The Hague is working with partners, including The Economic Board The Hague, to make this a reality.

The European Commission’s plan for a high-speed rail network, presented on 5 November 2025, further supports The Hague’s ambitions. The network aims to connect all major European cities, reduce travel times, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and boost local economies and European competitiveness. The Hague’s improved accessibility would benefit not only its own economy but also the broader region, including cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht.

Economic and environmental benefits

Restoring the direct rail link is expected to deliver substantial economic and environmental benefits. By 2030, the service could contribute €10–12 million to the local economy through increased tourism, higher hotel occupancy rates, and greater spending in hospitality and retail. 

The sustainability benefits are equally significant: a modal shift from road transport to rail could reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 1,450 tonnes annually by 2030, aligning with the European Green Deal, the Dutch Climate Act, and The Hague’s Mobility Transition Strategy 2022–2040.

The reintroduction of the direct service is also expected to double passenger numbers between Brussels and The Hague to 340,000 annually by 2040. Without a direct link, passenger numbers are projected to stagnate at between 197,000 and 243,000.

Two paths to a direct connection

A supporting memo from advisory firm Berenschot outlines two potential approaches to reinstate the service.

Option 1: Extending the existing service

The most straightforward solution is to extend the current EuroCity and EuroCity Direct Brussels–Rotterdam service, operated jointly by Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and NMBS / SNCB, to The Hague. This would largely replicate the previous operation and is considered the most robust and cost-effective option. The consultants estimate that a direct connection every two hours would be economically viable from the outset.

Option 2: Open access operator

Alternatively, an open access operator could launch a new service using its own rolling stock, personnel, and marketing strategy. This approach allows for greater customisation of timetables and services tailored to passenger needs. 

However, it presents significant challenges, including sourcing suitable rolling stock and managing commercial risks in a relatively small market. To mitigate these risks, large institutions in The Hague could provide guarantees or long-term ticket purchase agreements, particularly for diplomatic travel.

Broad support and momentum

The political and administrative support for the project is strong. The city council of The Hague unanimously passed a resolution in July 2025 to support direct European connections, and Belgian partners have indicated their willingness to collaborate. The Economic Board of The Hague has also expressed its full backing. With all the necessary ingredients in place, the project has broad ownership and momentum.

The restoration of the direct rail link would not only strengthen The Hague’s international position but also enhance the Netherlands’ role within Europe. It aligns with European and local ambitions for sustainable mobility and improved international accessibility, making The Hague more accessible, attractive, and future-proof as a global city of peace, justice, and diplomacy.

A call to action

The Hague is inviting transport operators, policymakers, and businesses to join in realising this connection. As the city’s ambition document, ‘Next stop: Europe‘, states, “The moment to act is now”.

With the Netherlands set to assume the EU Council presidency in 2029, The Hague is determined to seize this opportunity to reconnect with Europe and beyond.

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