When it comes to lifestyle, Scotland has all the essentials covered
Scotland boasts a vibrant culture with a strong identity that’s been shaped by our diverse background and history.
Innovation and creativity are at the heart of Scottish life with something new for everyone to enjoy and discover. With world-renowned festivals to captivating architecture set within thriving cities, Scotland makes a compelling case to visitors and investors from around the world.
Core to Scotland’s culture is it’s reputation for world-class higher education, featuring some of the world’s foremost universities. Investors can benefit from access to a deep talent pool of people looking to build their careers in Scotland through roles in exciting industries, fit for the future.
Reflecting the quality of life and scale of opportunity available in our cities, Glasgow tops the list of UK cities where students decided to stay post-graduation, closely followed by Edinburgh, as the only two UK cities with over a 50% graduate retention rate.
Our People
Scotland has long been a welcoming place for visitors and investors alike. We’re warm, down to earth, passionate, spirited and talented.
For investors, Scotland’s working culture has always maintained an international outlook, driven by the core characteristics of our people who are innovative, collaborative, curious, resilient, hardworking and community-oriented.
A 2023 Visitor Survey*, commissioned by Visit Scotland, found that 7 in 10 visitors felt that “Scotland is an open and welcoming destination” with the people playing a huge part in attracting interest in those coming to sample life in Scotland.
Scotland’s Landscape and Net Zero Ambitions
From our cities to our awe inducing landscapes and beautiful coastlines, Scotland provides a sense of escapism like no other. From the never-ending scenic roads of the NC500 in the North Highlands, to the introduction and launch of the Glasgow 2030 Tourism Strategy, which includes plans for bringing 20 hotels to the city with a focus on sustainability and inclusivity, there has never been a more exciting time to explore and invest in Scotland.
Intent on preserving the landscape for future generations, Scotland is also at the forefront of the journey to reach net zero emissions, backed by the Scottish Government’s Green Industrial Strategy, creating exciting opportunities for investors across sectors spanning Hydrogen, Carbon Capture, Financial services and Wind.
Tourism
Scotland’s tourism industry continues to thrive, consistently outperforming the rest of the UK in attracting visitors to its world-famous tourist attractions.
The sector is rife with opportunities for investors looking to benefit from our cities’ expertise in delivering world-class events and major infrastructure projects. From Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival generating an economic impact of £407 million in 2022** to Dundee’s £1 billion waterfront project, Scotland is a world-class destination for tourism development.
International visitors made a total of 4 million visits to Scotland, stayed for 34.4 million nights and spent £3,593 million
Visit Scotland, 2023
With Scotland now seen as a must-visit destination in terms of culture, tourism, sustainability and, of course, for its natural beauty, when it comes to choosing somewhere to visit, live, create and invest, Scotland has the whole package.
For further information on moving to Scotland, living and working in Scotland, and studying in Scotland, visit www.scotland.org
*Scotland Visitor Survey, 2023. **Edinburgh Festival City, 2023
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LHEES, area-wide plans for improving building energy efficiency and decarbonising heat, are crucial for Scotland’s energy transition. These strategies provide a framework for improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions in buildings by 2045. Cities are implementing LHEES to identify and prioritise areas for energy improvements, ensuring a coordinated approach to decarbonisation.
Efforts to decarbonise urban areas are gaining momentum. Initiatives like the Low Carbon Infrastructure Transition Programme (LCITP) support projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Cities are developing net zero neighbourhoods, focusing on energy efficiency, sustainable transport, and green spaces. These neighbourhoods aim to create healthier, more sustainable urban environments.
Scotland’s commitment to renewable energy is evident in its infrastructure. The country is a leader in wind energy, with numerous onshore and offshore wind farms. Cities are increasingly integrating renewable energy sources into their grids, supporting Scotland’s ambitious climate targets.
Transport infrastructure in Scotland’s cities is robust and continually improving. Scotland’s road network spans approximately 35,400 miles (56,959 km), with major road networks like the M8 connecting Glasgow and Edinburgh facilitating efficient travel and commerce. Rail connectivity is equally vital, with cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow serving as central hubs in the UK’s national rail network. The Caledonian Sleeper service, the overnight sleeper train service also provides a convenient connection between London and many of Scotland’s cities.
The rise of digital services has increased demand for data centres. Scotland’s cool climate and renewable energy resources make it an attractive location for green data centres. These facilities use energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources to minimise their environmental impact. Cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow are exploring opportunities to develop such centres, supporting the digital economy while aligning with sustainability goals.
Scotland is making significant strides in digital connectivity. The rollout of 5G and full-fibre broadband is transforming cities into digital hubs. CityFibre’s Gigabit City Investment Programme is a key initiative, aiming to provide full-fibre infrastructure to cities up and down Scotland and the wider UK. This programme supports the Scottish Government’s goal of ensuring superfast broadband access for all premises by 2027. Stirling became the UK’s first completed Gigabit City in 2020.