Aberdeen considers a 7% tourist tax on overnight stays. The tax, planned for 2027, faces opposition due to potential economic damage.
Aberdeen considers a visitor levy, meaning a tax on overnight stays. Council members will discuss it next week. The proposed tax is seven percent.
A report asks the council to okay a study. This study looks into the seven percent levy, which would add about £5 per night for visitors.
Setting up the levy costs £60,000. The levy could earn £6.35 to £7.6 million, and this money would go to Aberdeen City Council.
Places like hotels could add the tax. Hostels, guest houses, B&Bs, and rental properties could also be affected. Even caravan sites might join.
Many Scottish areas are thinking about taxes. Two-thirds of local authorities consider it; the Federation of Small Businesses shared this data, which is 21 out of 32 councils.
Aberdeen’s tax looks higher than others. Other councils are also thinking about this.
David Weston reacted to the proposed tax, stating he was astonished by the high rate. He also stated Aberdeen lacks overtourism.
Weston warned about dangers to tourism. He said the tax could damage Aberdeen’s economy. This damage would spread across the whole area.
Edinburgh will be Scotland’s first city with a tourist tax. It aims to raise £50 million yearly, and a five percent charge starts July 24, 2026.
Edinburgh’s tax applies to hotels, B&Bs, and other holiday rentals. It’s five percent per night, up to seven nights.
