onthaal

Onthaal is a Dutch term that encompasses the act of welcoming and the place where visitors are received. It denotes both the greeting as a social action and the physical front desk or reception area in organisations, public buildings, hotels and events. The term is often used interchangeably with receptie or balie, though onthaal emphasizes the welcoming and initial encounter rather than only the counter or staff.

In practice, the onthaal is staffed by receptionists or reception staff who greet visitors, provide information, register arrivals, issue badges or passes, make appointments, and direct people to the appropriate department. Security and visitor management are often part of onthaal duties, including checking IDs and signing in.

Contexts: In companies, schools, hospitals, municipalities and airports, the onthaal forms the first point of contact for clients, customers and guests. In hospitality, the onthaal is part of the guest experience, ensuring a friendly and efficient first impression. The term is used in both the Netherlands and Flanders, with similar functions but regional variations in phrasing.

Related terms include receptie (reception desk), balie (counter), ontvangst (reception/receipt) and welkom (welcome). In modern use, onthaal can also refer to an online or welcoming page for newcomers to an organization, or to onboarding processes that introduce new employees, clients or participants.