Following City of Edinburgh Council’s lead, after it announced its latest Visitor Levy proposal for a 5% tax on overnight accommodation in the capital, Aberdeen City Council is engaging with key stakeholders to develop its own visitor levy scheme.

The council sees potential to generate significant funds to enhance the city’s status as a leading tourist destination, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce reports.

Councillor Alex McLellan, convener of the finance and resource committee, said: “Aberdeen City Council is currently in the process of developing the Visitor Levy scheme with key stakeholders ahead of a wider consultation.

“There is the potential for the scheme to raise significant funds to help support our ambition to be a leading visitor destination.

“Our decision around whether or not to introduce a Visitor Levy will be informed by the consultation as it is important to consider the views of the trade, and a key part of that discussion will be around the rate of any levy, and, if such a levy was introduced, how the council would use it to boost the city’s economy, increase visitor numbers and, in turn, fill hotel rooms.”

A report on the proposed tourist tax will be presented to the finance and resource committee in March, followed by a broader public consultation. This follows Edinburgh’s plans to vote on a 5% tourist tax, which could be implemented by July 2026 if approved.