Singapore's tourism industry is a cornerstone of its economy, blending urban sophistication, cultural diversity, and innovative attractions to draw millions of visitors annually. As a global hub for business, leisure, and events, it has shown strong recovery and growth post-pandemic, with a focus on sustainability, digital innovation, and high-value experiences. Below, I'll outline key aspects of the tourism business in Singapore, including economic impact, major sectors, prominent companies, top attractions, and recent developments as of late 2025.
Economic Impact
Tourism significantly contributes to Singapore's GDP, employment, and foreign exchange earnings. Key highlights for 2025 include:
Projected international visitor arrivals of nearly 16 million, a 9.6% increase over pre-pandemic 2019 levels. Other estimates suggest up to 17-19 million visitors for the year.
From January to May 2025, Singapore welcomed about 7.09 million visitors, up 2.3% from the prior year. January to April alone saw 5.71 million arrivals, a 1.08% rise.
The sector's market value is estimated at USD 30.6 billion in 2025, projected to grow to USD 47 billion by 2035 at a 4.4% CAGR, with domestic tourism dominating.
Employment in tourism reached 75,000 workers by June 2025, an 8% year-on-year increase, with aggressive hiring for future-ready roles like digital marketing and sustainable operations.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) aims to boost tourism receipts by over 60% in the next 15 years through targeted strategies.
Key Sectors
Singapore's tourism business spans several interconnected areas:
- Leisure and Sightseeing: Focuses on family-friendly and cultural experiences, including theme parks and heritage sites.
- Business and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions): A major driver, with Singapore hosting global events; business travelers are a priority for growth.
- Cruising and Stopovers: Emphasis on luxury cruises and short-haul visits, with new offerings like themed voyages.
- Live Events and Entertainment: Concerts, festivals, and sports events to attract younger demographics.
- Hospitality: Rapid expansion with new hotels and sustainable accommodations.
Major Tourism Companies and Operators
Singapore hosts a mix of local tour operators, global hospitality chains, and tech-driven travel firms. Here's a selection of prominent players:
Category | Key Companies | Description |
Tour Operators | Chan Brothers Travel | One of Singapore's largest agencies, offering group tours, cruises, and packages to Asia, Europe, and beyond; known for wide destination choices. |
| SA Tours | Comprehensive services for leisure and corporate travel, including customized itineraries and cruise packages. |
| Nam Ho Travel | Established since 1957, specializes in group tours, cruises, and leisure packages for all traveler types. |
| Monster Day Tours | Award-winning for unique, themed day tours with local guides; highly rated for experiential activities. |
| Intriq Journey | Luxury-focused agency for personalized high-end tours and adventures. |
Travel Tech & Platforms | Booking.com, Sabre Corporation | Global platforms with strong Singapore presence for bookings and travel management. |
| BeMyGuest - Tours & Activities | Marketplace for local experiences and activities. |
| utu global | Tech firm enhancing travel rewards and shopping experiences. |
Hospitality & Attractions | Resorts World Sentosa (Genting Singapore) | Operates Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium (rebranded as Singapore Oceanarium by 2025), and integrated resorts. |
| Marina Bay Sands (Las Vegas Sands) | Iconic hotel, casino, and entertainment complex. |
| Wildlife Reserves Singapore (Mandai Wildlife Group) | Manages Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, and new developments like Rainforest Wild Asia. |
These companies benefit from collaborations with STB and leverage Singapore's connectivity via Changi Airport.
Top Tourist Attractions
Singapore offers a diverse range of attractions, from futuristic gardens to cultural enclaves. Classic must-visits include:
Attraction | Description |
Gardens by the Bay | Supertrees, Cloud Forest, and Flower Dome; a top urban oasis with light shows. |
Marina Bay Sands | SkyPark, infinity pool, shopping, and skyline views; iconic for events and dining. |
Sentosa Island | Beaches, Universal Studios, adventure parks, and resorts. |
Singapore Botanic Gardens | UNESCO site with orchid gardens and rainforest trails. |
Singapore Zoo & Night Safari | Wildlife experiences with ethical animal encounters. |
New and upcoming attractions in 2025 enhance appeal:
- Minion Land at Universal Studios (themed zone expansion).
- Disney Adventure Cruise (homeported in Singapore for family voyages).
- Rainforest Wild Asia (new eco-adventure park at Mandai).
- IMBA Theatre and Kada (interactive media and cultural experiences).
Recent Developments and Opportunities
In 2025, the industry emphasizes empowerment for growth, as highlighted at the STB's Tourism Industry Conference.
Key trends include:
- Surge in live events, business travel, and cruising to drive receipts.
- New hotel openings and attraction revamps for post-pandemic appeal.
- Focus on sustainability, with eco-friendly initiatives and digital tools for personalized experiences.
- Business opportunities abound in startups for travel tech, sustainable tourism, and niche experiences like food tours or wellness retreats.
If you're interested in starting a tourism business in Singapore, consider registering with STB for licenses, targeting high-growth areas like MICE or eco-tourism, and leveraging grants for innovation. For more specifics, such as investment details, I recommend checking official STB resources.
Based on recent data from app stores, travel guides, and user recommendations as of late 2025, here are the top 10 travel apps particularly useful for tourists and travelers in Singapore. These focus on navigation, bookings, payments, and local experiences, with a mix of global and Singapore-specific tools. I've prioritized apps based on popularity, user ratings (e.g., from Google Play and App Store), frequency of mentions in travel resources, and relevance for seamless trips. Ratings are approximate averages across stores.
Rank | App Name | Key Features | Why It's Top for Singapore |
1 | Grab | Ride-hailing (taxis, private cars, bikes), food delivery, payments, and even event tickets; supports cashless transactions and multi-services in one app. | Ubiquitous in Singapore for quick, affordable transport; integrates with local services like GrabFood for hawker stalls and island-wide delivery. Often cited as essential for avoiding traffic hassles. |
2 | Google Maps | Real-time navigation, public transport routes (MRT, buses), walking directions, traffic updates, and offline maps. | Best for MRT and bus integration with live timings; invaluable for tourists navigating Singapore's efficient but complex public system without needing multiple apps. |
3 | Klook | Booking attractions (e.g., Gardens by the Bay, Universal Studios), tours, transport passes, and exclusive deals; includes reviews and instant confirmations. | Popular for discounted Singapore experiences like themed tours and cruises; great for first-timers seeking bundled activities. |
4 | Visit Singapore (YourSingapore Guide) | Curated itineraries, event calendars, attraction info, maps, and AR experiences; official app from Singapore Tourism Board. | Provides insider tips on cultural events, hidden gems, and real-time updates; ideal for planning personalized trips with mascot-guided fun. |
5 | MyTransport.SG | Public transport planning, live bus/MRT arrivals, traffic cams, parking availability, and route optimization. | Essential for budget travelers using Singapore's world-class MRT and buses; includes alerts for disruptions and EZ-Link card integration. |
6 | YouTrip | Multi-currency wallet for payments, ATM withdrawals, and forex; no conversion fees on overseas spends. | Tailored for tourists with competitive rates on SGD and global currencies; seamless for shopping, dining, and avoiding bank fees in Singapore. |
7 | Zig (formerly CDG Zig) | Taxi and private hire bookings, ride-sharing, and promotions; integrated with ComfortDelGro fleet. | Reliable alternative to Grab for taxis; offers promo codes for tourists and covers airport transfers efficiently. |
8 | Chope | Restaurant reservations, deals, vouchers, and reviews; covers over 2,000 eateries with guides for local cuisine. | Great for booking tables at popular spots like hawker centers or fine dining; saves money on meals during peak tourist hours. |
9 | MyENV | Weather forecasts, rain alerts, air quality (PSI), dengue hotspots, and UV index; from National Environment Agency. | Crucial for outdoor plans in tropical Singapore; prevents surprises from sudden showers or haze, especially for Gardens by the Bay visits. |
10 | Citymapper | Multi-modal transport planning (MRT, bus, bike, walk), real-time updates, and offline access; compares options for speed/cost. | User-friendly for complex routes; favored by urban explorers for its detailed guidance in Singapore's dense city layout. |
These apps are mostly free, with optional in-app purchases for premium features. For iOS/Android compatibility, check the respective stores—most are available on both. If you're focusing on specific needs (e.g., buses only), alternatives like SG BusLeh or Explore Singapore MRT Map could swap in. Always download from official sources and enable notifications for real-time perks.
Top Airports in Singapore in tabular form
Rank | Airport Name | IATA Code | Type | Location | Key Notes |
1 | Singapore Changi Airport | SIN | Public (Commercial) | Changi | World's best airport in 2025 per Skytrax; handled ~67.7 million passengers in 2024, projected ~70 million in 2025. |
2 | Seletar Airport | XSP | Public (General Aviation/Reliever) | Seletar | Focuses on regional flights, charters, and business aviation; capacity for ~700,000 passengers annually, but actual traffic much lower (no recent exact figures available). |
Singapore's aviation is dominated by Changi for international travel, with Seletar serving niche roles. Other facilities are primarily military air bases (e.g., Paya Lebar, Tengah) and not open for commercial passenger use. If you're looking for global rankings or specific metrics, Changi consistently tops lists for efficiency and amenities.
Tourist Arrivals in Singapore (2025)
Singapore's tourism sector continued its post-pandemic recovery in 2025, with international visitor arrivals (IVA) showing steady growth driven by leisure, business, and events. As of October 31, 2025, data is available up to September 2025. The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) projects full-year arrivals between 17.0 and 18.5 million, with tourism receipts of S$29.0 to S$30.5 billion. This would represent a 3-12% increase over 2024's 16.5 million arrivals. Year-to-date (YTD) arrivals through September reached approximately 12.88 million, up about 7.6% from the same period in 2024 (calculated from monthly data).
Monthly Arrivals and Year-over-Year (YoY) Growth
Below is a breakdown of monthly IVA for 2025 (up to September), including YoY comparisons to 2024 where available.
Month | Arrivals | YoY Growth vs. 2024 | Notes |
January | 1,633,485 | +15.1% | Peak month, boosted by Chinese New Year events. |
February | 1,377,513 | -2.8% | Slight dip, possibly due to post-holiday lull. |
March | 1,296,605 | -11.5% | Continued decline from March 2024 highs. |
April | 1,403,644 | +4.5% | Recovery with Easter and school holidays. |
May | 1,374,170 | +7.6% | Strong growth from Asian markets. |
June | 1,245,946 | -0.3% | Stable, with summer travel offset by regional factors. |
July | 1,680,767 | +4.9% | High due to mid-year holidays and events. |
August | 1,609,312 | +4.5% | Continued momentum from leisure travel. |
September | 1,254,344 | -1.3% | Minor decline; overnight visitors ~71% (883,130). |
YTD (Jan-Sep) | ~12,875,786 | ~+7.6% | On track for projections; October data pending release. |
Growth was supported by enhanced air connectivity, new attractions (e.g., Minion Land at Universal Studios, Rainforest Wild Asia), and events like the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix and concerts. Challenges included global uncertainties like geopolitical tensions.
Tourist Profiles in Singapore (2025)
Visitor profiles for 2025 are based on available monthly data up to August (demographics) and partial-year trends, supplemented by 2024 profiles as a proxy where 2025-specific details are limited (e.g., purpose, spending). STB's annual visitor profile survey for 2024 provides deeper insights, with trends expected to hold in 2025 amid similar market dynamics. Key themes include a focus on sustainable, wellness, and culinary experiences, targeting families, "Culinary Explorers," and business travelers.
Demographics (Age and Gender)
Based on January-August 2025 data, visitors skewed slightly female (average 51.3% female, 48.7% male across months). Age groups show a working-age dominance, with 25-44-year-olds comprising ~40-45% of arrivals, reflecting leisure and business travel. Below is an average percentage breakdown (derived from monthly data; totals may not sum to 100% due to minor unspecified categories).
Age Group | Average % of Arrivals (Jan-Aug 2025) | Key Insights |
Under 15 | 11.5% | Family travel peaks in holidays (e.g., July: 14.5%). |
15-19 | 5.5% | Student/youth groups, lower in non-holiday months. |
20-24 | 7.2% | Young adults, often for events/shopping. |
25-34 | 21.8% | Largest group; millennials for leisure/business. |
35-44 | 21.5% | Professionals/families; steady across months. |
45-54 | 16.0% | Mid-career travelers; business/MICE focus. |
55-64 | 11.8% | Seniors; wellness/cruise segments. |
65+ (implied/residual) | ~4.7% | Not explicitly broken out; growing with wellness trends. |
No significant YoY shifts from 2024, though family-oriented arrivals (under 15) increased in peak months.
Top Source Markets (Origins)
For 2025, top markets mirror 2024 patterns, with Asia dominating. Partial 2025 data (e.g., May: China, India, Indonesia) and full 2024 figures indicate:
Rank | Country/Region | 2025 Insights (Partial Year) | 2024 Arrivals (for Context) |
1 | China | Leads arrivals and spending; strong recovery post-reopening. | 3.08 million |
2 | Indonesia | Consistent short-haul leader; family/leisure focus. | 2.49 million |
3 | India | Growing mid-haul; events and MICE. | 1.20 million |
4 | Australia | Top long-haul spender; wellness/cruises. | ~1.0 million (est. based on trends) |
5 | Malaysia | Regional feeder; day trips/short stays. | Significant, though land arrivals excluded in some stats. |
Other notables: Japan, Taiwan, UK, USA (healthy growth); Southeast Asia ~30-35% of total, Greater China ~25%. Mix includes short-haul (e.g., Indonesia), mid-haul (e.g., India), and long-haul (e.g., Australia/USA).
Purpose of Visit
- Leisure/Holiday: Majority (~60-70% based on 2023/2024 trends); attractions, events, food, and family experiences.
- Business/MICE: ~20-25%; Singapore ranked #2 globally for MICE in 2023, with events like the Singapore Airshow.
- Others (e.g., Cruise, Transit, VFR - Visiting Friends/Relatives): ~10-15%; 1.8 million cruise passengers in 2024, expected to be similar in 2025. Trends: Rising interest in sustainable/wellness (e.g., Wellness Festival) and culinary exploration.
Length of Stay and Spending
- Average Length of Stay: 3.47 days (Jan-Apr 2025 average); similar to 2024's ~3.5-3.8 days. Overnight visitors ~70-72% of total.
- Average Spending per Visitor: Projected ~S$1,600-1,800 (based on 2024's S$1,806 and 2025 receipts/arrivals forecasts). 2024 breakdown: Shopping (31%), Accommodation (17%), Food & Beverage (14%), Sightseeing/Entertainment/Gaming (17%), Other (20%). Growth in high-value segments like SEG (+20-25% YoY). Affluent travelers (e.g., at F1 events) boosted spending by 45% above average.
For the latest full-year data or October updates, refer to STB's STAN portal or official releases.
Popular Destinations and Attractions in Singapore (2025)
Singapore in 2025 offers a vibrant mix of timeless classics and innovative new experiences, drawing millions of visitors with its blend of urban innovation, cultural heritage, natural beauty, and family-friendly entertainment. Based on recent rankings from sources like TripAdvisor, Lonely Planet, and Time Out, the city's attractions emphasize sustainability, immersive tech, and diverse activities. Visitor numbers have surged, with highlights including eco-parks, themed zones, and cultural neighborhoods. Below, I've categorized the most popular ones into classics (enduring favorites) and new/upcoming for 2025, with brief descriptions, key features, and why they're popular. Rankings are composite based on user reviews, awards, and mentions across sources.
Top Classic Attractions
These are perennial favorites, consistently ranking high in 2025 polls for their accessibility and appeal.
Rank | Attraction | Description | Key Features & Why Popular |
1 | Gardens by the Bay | Futuristic gardens with massive Supertrees, domed conservatories, and outdoor spaces; a UNESCO-inscribed highlight. | Cloud Forest, Flower Dome, nightly light shows; eco-friendly urban oasis attracting nature lovers and families (over 10 million visitors annually). |
2 | Marina Bay Sands | Iconic integrated resort with skyline views, shopping, and entertainment; symbolizes modern Singapore. | Infinity pool (hotel guests only), SkyPark observation deck, light/water shows; postcard views and luxury appeal. |
3 | Sentosa Island | Resort island with beaches, theme parks, and adventures; easy escape from the city. | Universal Studios, S.E.A. Aquarium (rebranded as Singapore Oceanarium in 2025), beaches; family fun and relaxation. |
4 | Singapore Zoo & Night Safari | Ethical wildlife park with open enclosures; Night Safari offers nocturnal animal viewing. | Tram rides, animal shows, River Wonders nearby; educational and immersive for all ages. |
5 | Singapore Botanic Gardens | Lush tropical gardens with the world's largest orchid display; free entry except for orchid garden. | UNESCO site, walking trails, National Orchid Garden; peaceful strolls and biodiversity. |
6 | Chinatown | Historic ethnic enclave with temples, street food, and shophouses; vibrant cultural hub. | Hawker centers, temples like Buddha Tooth Relic, street art; affordable dining and heritage exploration. |
7 | Little India | Colorful neighborhood with Indian influences, spices, and temples; bustling weekend markets. | Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Mustafa Centre shopping; authentic cuisine and cultural immersion. |
8 | Clarke Quay & Boat Quay | Riverside nightlife districts with converted warehouses; historic trading spots turned entertainment zones. | Bars, clubs, river cruises; evening vibes and dining with waterfront views. |
9 | Jewel Changi Airport | Airport hub turned attraction with indoor waterfall, gardens, and retail; transit highlight. | HSBC Rain Vortex, Shiseido Forest Valley; unique for layovers and architecture fans. |
10 | Haw Par Villa | Eccentric park with Chinese mythology statues and dioramas; quirky cultural site. | Over 1,000 sculptures, Ten Courts of Hell exhibit; free, offbeat history and folklore. |
New and Upcoming Attractions in 2025
2025 brings fresh openings focusing on immersion, nature, and themed entertainment, boosting Singapore's appeal for repeat visitors. Many emphasize sustainability and tech. Highlights include expansions at existing sites.
Attraction | Description | Key Features & Opening Details |
Rainforest Wild Asia (Mandai Wildlife Reserve) | Immersive 13-hectare park inspired by Southeast Asian rainforests; trekking and wildlife spotting. | Rainforest trails, animal encounters, 7,000 native plants; opened March 2025; eco-adventure for nature enthusiasts. |
Minion Land (Universal Studios Singapore, Sentosa) | Themed zone based on Despicable Me; rides, shops, and dining. | Buggie Boogie carousel, Minion-inspired treats; opened early 2025; family-friendly fun for kids. |
IMBA Theatre (Gardens by the Bay) | Multi-sensory interactive space with projections, art, and dining. | 20,000 sq ft zone, 12.5m projection wall; opened 2025; futuristic experiences blending art and tech. |
Singapore Oceanarium (Revamped S.E.A. Aquarium, Sentosa) | Expanded marine exhibit triple the original size; focuses on ocean evolution and conservation. | Multi-sensory displays, Singapore coastal ecosystems; reopened 2025; educational marine adventures. |
Kada (Maxwell) | Wellness and lifestyle hub in a historic building; coffee, studios, and rooftop. | Pilates, hydrotherapy, co-living, art jamming; opened 2025; urban wellness retreat near food centers. |
Mandai Rainforest Resort (Mandai Wildlife Reserve) | Eco-luxury resort amid nature; treehouse rooms and suites. | 338 rooms, animal access; opened April 2025; tranquil stays with sustainability focus. |
Disney Adventure Cruise (Homeported in Singapore) | Themed cruise ship with Disney experiences; family voyages from Marina Bay. | Character meets, shows, themed dining; launched 2025; short-haul cruises for all ages. |
Haven XR Cinemas | VR-based immersive cinema with interactive plots, scents, and temperatures. | Customizable stories; opened 2025; cutting-edge entertainment for tech-savvy visitors. |
Escape Singapore | Retro-eco adventure park with low-tech, nature-based rides. | Waterslides through rainforest (inspired by Escape Penang); opened 2025; adrenaline and eco-fun. |
These attractions cater to diverse profiles: families (e.g., Sentosa, Minion Land), nature seekers (e.g., Botanic Gardens, Rainforest Wild Asia), and culture enthusiasts (e.g., ethnic neighborhoods). For 2025, trends show increased interest in sustainable and wellness-focused spots, with events like the Singapore Grand Prix enhancing appeal. Tips: Use apps like Klook for tickets and discounts; visit during weekdays to avoid crowds. For more, check the Singapore Tourism Board for updates.
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