Welcome to Arendal! With a population estimated at 45,000, it is the second largest municipality in the Agder region. The city was established as a municipality on January 1, 1838.
Shipping, shipbuilding, and timber trade, as well as mining and ironworks, were important industries in the Arendal region for many centuries. Today, the city hosts small boat production, mechanical industry, electronics industry, as well as one of the world’s largest silicon carbide refineries. Additionally, the region’s largest battery factory is under construction in the municipality.
Arendal is also known as the inspiration city for the Disney animated film “Frozen.” “Arendelle” is the central location of the “Frozen” film series and the birthplace of the characters “Anna” and “Elsa.” Hidden in the film are some very clever and well-researched parts of Norwegian history and archaeology.
Living and Exploring
Pollen, shown at the top of the page, is known as the heart of the city center. Here, you can enjoy the harbor life and the bustling streets of Arendal all year round.
Arendal municipality’s website provides practical information for residents.
The city offers many exciting activities. At Kuben you will find exhibitions showcasing the history of Arendal and eastern Agder. The museum has a special exhibition designed for children.
Welcome Hub Agder
Welcome Hub Agder invites new residents to “become a local!” in Arendal.
Funded by local businesses, service organizations, and the municipality, WHA is positioned as an integral part of the community with over 100 network organizations – together providing information, networking opportunities, and support for both newly settled and established Norwegians and internationals.
WHA’s services are available to everyone, with a special focus on a diverse offering for newly arrived national and international families. Check their website for many exciting events or send an email to info@welcomehub.no.
The network behind WHA understands that moving to a new place affects the whole family. This important transition should be exciting and positive. Let them help you feel comfortable!
Arendalsuka
In August, a democratic meeting place is held for everyone engaged in society. Arendalsuka is the event for those who want to listen, debate, and solve today’s and tomorrow’s societal challenges.
Around 1,000 events and 200 stands fill the center of Arendal for five days each August.
Education
Children in Norway start school the year they turn 6. They are automatically enrolled in their local school based on their home address, but parents can apply for other schools within or outside the municipality, as well as private schools.
Everyone settling in Arendal can choose Norwegian- or English-language education. Here is a brief overview of options often chosen by international families:
The International School in Arendal offers high-quality international education. Teaching is conducted in English for children aged 6–16. More about the school here: Arendal International School
IB at Arendal Upper Secondary School offers high school education with almost all teaching in English (The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme).
University of Agder has its largest campus in Kristiansand. The other campus is in Grimstad. UiA has 13,000 students and 1,300 employees.
Arendal also offers Norwegian language classes for adults, both day and evening courses.
Transport
The nearest commercial airport is Kristiansand International Airport Kjevik. The airport has direct international flights to Amsterdam and Copenhagen. Seasonal direct flights are available to Spain, Greece, Cyprus, and a few other countries.
Transport to and from Kristiansand airport: see Avinor.
Taxi: Arendal & Grimstad Taxi at number 07000.
Local bus routes: check AKT.no/English. Here you can both plan your journey and buy tickets.
For bus or train travel outside Agder, please see Vy.
Local ferries in Arendal connect to the following destinations:
Tromøy – Arendal – Hisøy
Arendal – Merdø
Departures and routes, please check here.
Contact Information for Public Authorities
Emergency numbers
- Ambulance: 113
- Police: 112
- Fire: 110
- Emergency clinic: 116 117
Hospital and emergency clinic
Sørlandet Hospital Arendal, Sykehusveien 1, 4838 Arendal
Phone: +47 906 10 600
Police Station
Arendal and Froland police station, Åsbieveien 39, 4848 Arendal
Monday – Friday 09:00-14:30 (Thursday 16:30)
NAV (The Norwegian Labor and Welfare Administration)
NAV Arendal, Nedre Tyholms vei 13, 4836 Arendal
Monday – Friday: 12:00-15:00