Mactan, Cebu – Singapore is accelerating investments in hotels, MICE infrastructure, and cruise facilities to drive its next phase of tourism growth, targeting high-value visitors and global events. This was highlighted by Kwan Su Min, Director of Communications and Marketing, Singapore Tourism Board, during the ASEAN Tourism Forum NTO Media Briefing on January 29 in Cebu.
From January to November 2025, Singapore welcomed a 3% year-on-year growth in international visitor arrivals, with full-year numbers projected at 17–18.5 million. Tourism receipts reached SGD 15.7 billion in the first half of the year, marking roughly 5% growth.
“So far, we have been quite pleased with the results. Despite challenges, we are performing steadily, achieving 3% growth year-on-year. Our focus remains on quality tourism, prioritizing quality over volume,” Kwan said.
Hotel supply expands for high-value visitors
Singapore maintains a stable inventory of around 74,000 hotel rooms, adding over 800 new keys in 2025, with further openings planned through 2027.
“We are introducing new hotel concepts to meet evolving visitor expectations. Travelers are spending more on accommodations, and we are ensuring our offerings remain appealing,” Kwan noted.
Recent and upcoming developments reflect a focus on luxury and experiential stays. The newly opened Raffles Sentosa Singapore, the country’s first all-villa resort, reinforces ultra-luxury positioning, while enhancements at Parkroyal Collection emphasize sustainability and wellness while expansion plans for Marina Bay Sands include a luxury hotel tower, public rooftop attraction, and additional premium MICE space. Lifestyle and premium hotels opening through 2026–2027 include Mandai Rainforest Resort, Mövenpick Singapore, Mövenpick Living, and new brands such as Mett Singapore, Mama Shelter, Colugo Camp at Mandai, and The Laurus at Sentosa.
Hotel demand remains robust, with average occupancy at 82.4%, consistent with 2024 levels, as travelers continue to spend more on accommodation.
MICE strengthens economic impact
Singapore continues to solidify its position as a leading MICE destination. Business events contribute significantly to tourism revenue, with MICE visitors spending nearly twice as much as leisure travelers.
The city-state has been Asia’s top meeting destination for over 20 years and continues to secure high-profile conventions and corporate gatherings. A new downtown MICE hub is underway to expand exhibition capacity, complementing existing venues such as Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre and Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre. Singapore aims to triple MICE tourism by 2040, reinforcing the sector as a pillar of quality growth.
Cruise sector boosts regional hub status
The expansion of the Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore in late 2025 strengthens Singapore’s role as a regional cruise hub. Major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruise Line’s upcoming Disney Adventure, are homeported in Singapore, with ultra-luxury brands like Explora and Cordelia also set to call in the coming years.
Aviation and transit traffic drive demand
The expansion of Changi Airport, including Terminal 5, is expected to significantly increase passenger capacity, positioning transit passengers as potential stopover visitors. This strategy will further boost hotel stays, meetings traffic, and cruise extensions.
Singapore’s Tourism 2040 roadmap targets tourism receipts of SGD 47–50 billion through high-value travel, business events, and premium experiences. By strengthening its hospitality ecosystem — from luxury resorts and convention hubs to cruise and aviation infrastructure — Singapore is positioning itself as a global gateway for business, leisure, and experiential travel.
