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Saarbrücken introduces bed tax: tourists should pay!
Saarbrücken is planning a bed tax for overnight stays from April 2026. Critics point out possible negative effects.
Saarbrücken introduces bed tax: tourists should pay!
In Saarbrücken, the planned introduction of a bed tax from April 1, 2026 is causing lively discussions. The finance committee has already given its okay, now the city council has to decide on it next week. The city administration expects additional income of around 1.5 million euros, which will flow into marketing and tourist infrastructure tagesschau.de reported.
The tax applies to overnight stays in hotels, guesthouses and private providers such as Airbnb. The issue was already on the city council's agenda a year ago, but did not receive the necessary majority. Mayor Barbara Meyer has now specified the plans for a tax increase and its introduction in mid-2024.
The criticism from the industry
The Dehoga hotel and restaurant association expresses concerns about the bed tax. Managing director Frank Hohrath describes it as an unsuitable means of financing tourism. He believes the tax could not only put a financial burden on the industry but also deter tourists. Dehoga President Michael Buchna also emphasizes that the situation in the hospitality industry has not improved since last year sr.de reported.
Another issue that is under debate is the levying of the tax on private providers. There is some uncertainty here because the city cannot reliably determine these overnight stays. There are also concerns about additional bureaucratic effort, which is perceived as a burden in the already tense situation in the hospitality industry.
The need for a municipal financing strategy
The concept of bed tax is not only discussed locally, but also in the larger context of municipal tourism financing. Many cities and municipalities, which are struggling with a record deficit of probably 13.2 billion euros, see tax and fee adjustments as an opportunity to rehabilitate their finances. The pressure on municipal coffers is growing, which is why some municipalities are considering a more precise solution such as a dedicated guest contribution destination-thinking.de shows.
It remains to be seen whether a bed tax will actually have the desired effect or whether it will put more of a burden on tourism. Dialogue between cities, accommodation providers and citizens is essential to find a solution that meets both the financial future of municipalities and the needs of tourists.