Edinburgh to Implement Tourist Tax by 2026

Edinburgh is set to become the first city in Scotland to introduce a tourist tax, expected to generate up to £50 million annually by 2028/2029. The tax will apply to various accommodations, including hotels, B&Bs, and Airbnb rentals, but will exclude campsites. The funds raised will be invested in city infrastructure, public services, affordable housing, and cultural heritage, with £5 million earmarked for housing and 35% for the arts sector. A 12-week public consultation will begin in the autumn to finalize the details, with the levy expected to be implemented in summer 2026. Critics argue that the tax might deter tourists, but council leaders believe the benefits far outweigh potential drawbacks. This initiative aligns Edinburgh with other major cities like Amsterdam, Berlin, and New York that have similar levies.