Holland. On Tuesday 29 September 2009, Prince Willem-Alexander, Prince of Orange, will officially open RAI Elicium, Amsterdam RAI’s pioneering new sustainable building. RAI Elicium is the new contemporary face of Amsterdam RAI, designed by Benthem Crouwel Architects. The building is a architectural highlight for the RAI and an impressive new addition to the Amsterdam skyline.
The Elicium connects the various separate parts of the RAI in a unique way and was constructed using the very latest eco-friendly techniques.
The Elicium combines exhibition, congress and meeting facilities in one building means that Amsterdam RAI can make an even greater contribution to the city’s desire to attract major international multiday events. At the same time the multifunctional nature of the building ensures that the home Dutch market has access to party and meeting accommodation of the highest quality. And the central area of the Elicium is now Holland’s largest ballroom.
The fact that His Royal Highness Prince Willem-Alexander will open the Elicium on 29 September continues a special tradition at the RAI. Various members of the Dutch royal family have been present for the official opening ceremonies of other parts of the complex. HRH Prince Bernard opened the Europa Complex in 1961, HRH Princess Margriet opened the RAI Congress Centre three years later and the Holland Complex was opened by HRH Prince Claus in 1982.
Prior to the symbolic opening ceremony by the Prince, Amsterdam RAI Chairman of the Board Hans Bakker will give a presentation speech. Architect and former Chief Government Architect Mels Crouwel from Benthem Crouwel Architects will give a short explanation about his design. His Royal Highness will then stay for a multimedia opening show followed by a tour of the new building.
Amsterdam RAI has played a key role as an inspiration platform for many people and market sectors since it opened in 1893. Each year the RAI hosts over 50 international congresses, 70 (trade) exhibitions, 500 events and more than a thousand smaller congresses, meetings, presentations and other gatherings.
