Exploring Singapore: A Guide for UAE Travelers

Singapore, a dazzling city-state in Southeast Asia, is a perfect getaway from the UAE, offering a blend of modernity, cultural richness, and culinary delights. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a longer vacation, here’s a detailed guide to the best places to visit in Singapore from UAE, along with free attractions that won’t stretch your budget.

Practical Tips To Visit Singapore for UAE Travelers

  • Visa: UAE citizens can enter Singapore visa-free for up to 30 days. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. UAE expats may need singapore visa depending on their nationality.
  • Currency: The currency in Singapore is the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have cash for smaller vendors.
  • Weather: Singapore has a tropical climate with high humidity year-round. Pack light, breathable clothing and sunscreen.
  • Transport: Singapore has an efficient public transport system with MRT (subway) and buses. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are also available.
  • Language: English is widely spoken in Singapore, along with Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil, making communication easy for travelers.

Best Places To Visit in Singapore

1. Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands in Singapore is an iconic integrated resort known for its striking architecture, luxurious accommodations, world-class dining and shopping options, and captivating entertainment including the famous infinity pool overlooking the city skyline, offering visitors a premium hospitality experience and stunning views of Marina Bay and beyond.

Must-visit places in Marina Bay Sands:  Observation Deck for panoramic views, ArtScience Museum for interactive exhibitions, and Marina Bay Sands SkyPark for iconic cityscape vistas.

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2. Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay in Singapore is a stunning horticultural oasis featuring futuristic Supertree Grove, climate-controlled conservatories like the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest, mesmerizing light shows, and expansive outdoor gardens showcasing diverse plant species, offering visitors a captivating blend of nature, art, and sustainable architecture that has become an iconic symbol of Singapore’s commitment to environmental conservation and urban greening initiatives.

Must-visit places in Gardens by the Bay: Supertree Grove, Flower Dome, Cloud Forest, and OCBC Skyway for stunning gardens and breathtaking views.

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3. Sentosa Island

Sentosa Island in Singapore is a premier leisure destination offering a diverse range of attractions, including pristine beaches, luxurious resorts, family-friendly theme parks like Universal Studios Singapore and S.E.A. Aquarium, vibrant entertainment options, golf courses, and rejuvenating spas, making it an ideal getaway for tourists seeking relaxation, adventure, and entertainment in a picturesque island setting.

Must-visit places in Sentosa Island: Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and Siloso Beach for a variety of entertainment and relaxation options.

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4. Singapore Zoo and Night Safari

Singapore Zoo and Night Safari are world-class wildlife attractions offering unique experiences. Singapore Zoo provides spacious habitats for a wide variety of animals, emphasizing conservation and education, while Night Safari allows visitors to observe nocturnal creatures in their naturalistic habitats under dim lighting, both offering unforgettable encounters with wildlife and promoting awareness of conservation efforts.

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5. Chinatown and Little India

Chinatown and Little India are vibrant cultural enclaves in Singapore offering immersive experiences. Chinatown boasts historic temples, traditional shops, and bustling markets, while Little India delights with colorful streets, aromatic spices, and cultural landmarks like Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, providing rich insights into Singapore’s multicultural fabric and heritage.

Must-visit places in Chinatown: Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Chinatown Heritage Centre, Maxwell Food Centre for hawker delights, and Thian Hock Keng Temple for cultural immersion.

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6. Singapore Botanic Gardens

The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a serene and expansive green oasis renowned for its lush landscapes, diverse flora, and iconic attractions like the National Orchid Garden (free entry on weekdays), offering visitors a peaceful retreat, educational experiences, and cultural insights into Singapore’s botanical heritage, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Must-visit places in Singapore Botanic Gardens: National Orchid Garden for its stunning orchid displays, the serene Swan Lake, and the Healing Garden for its medicinal plants and herbs.

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7. Clarke Quay

Clarke Quay in Singapore is a vibrant riverside precinct renowned for its bustling nightlife, eclectic dining options, lively bars, and scenic river cruises, offering visitors a vibrant and energetic atmosphere with a mix of entertainment, shopping, and dining experiences set against the backdrop of historic shophouses and modern architecture.

Must-visit places in Clarke Quay: Riverside restaurants and bars, the vibrant nightlife scene, and the historic shophouses along the Singapore River.

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8. Merlion Park

Merlion Park in Singapore is an iconic waterfront attraction symbolizing the city-state’s heritage and maritime roots, featuring the iconic Merlion statue—a mythical creature with a lion’s head and a fish’s body—offering visitors picturesque views of Marina Bay Sands, the Esplanade, and the Marina Bay waterfront, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking a quintessential Singapore experience.

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9. Peranakan Culture

Peranakan culture in Singapore is a vibrant fusion of Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian influences. Discover the unique Peranakan heritage at places like the Peranakan Museum (free entry on Fridays for locals) and explore Katong for its colorful shophouses and authentic cuisine.

Must-visit places in Peranakan: Peranakan Museum, Katong’s vibrant shophouses, and Baba House for an immersive experience of Peranakan culture in Singapore.

10. Singapore Flyer

Enjoy panoramic views from the Singapore Flyer, one of the world’s largest observation wheels. While the ride is ticketed, the views are spectacular, especially at sunset. This giant observation wheel offers breathtaking views of Singapore’s skyline, Marina Bay, and iconic landmarks, providing a unique and memorable experience for visitors to enjoy panoramic vistas of the city and beyond.

11. Jurong Bird Park

One of the largest bird parks globally, housing over 5,000 birds from 400 species, providing a natural environment for rare birds and interactive experiences. It is renowned for its extensive collection of exotic birds, engaging exhibits, and immersive aviaries, offering visitors a captivating experience of avian diversity and conservation efforts.

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12. Orchard Road

The main shopping destination in Singapore, lined with luxury shopping malls and trendy boutiques, perfect for fashion enthusiasts. It is renowned for its upscale malls, diverse dining options, vibrant nightlife, and luxurious hotels, making it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.

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Places To Visit in Singapore For Free:

  • Gardens by the Bay (Outdoor Gardens): Explore the outdoor gardens and enjoy the Supertree Grove light show for free.
  • Merlion Park: Take photos with the Merlion statue against the backdrop of Marina Bay.
  • Singapore Botanic Gardens: Wander through the gardens and visit the National Orchid Garden for free on weekdays for non-residents.
  • Haji Lane and Kampong Glam: Explore vibrant street art and boutiques in Haji Lane and visit Sultan Mosque in Kampong Glam.
  • East Coast Park: Relax on the beach, cycle, or use public barbecue pits at this expansive coastal park.
  • Sentosa Boardwalk: Access Sentosa Island for free via the boardwalk and enjoy views as you walk to attractions like Siloso Beach.
  • ArtScience Museum (Free Admission Days): Visit the ArtScience Museum on selected days for free admission and explore its unique exhibitions.
  • Singapore Symphony Orchestra Concerts at Botanic Gardens: Enjoy free outdoor concerts by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra in the serene Botanic Gardens.
  • Chinatown and Little India: Wander through colorful streets, visit temples, and experience the vibrant cultural atmosphere.
  • Clarke Quay and Marina Bay Sands Promenade: Stroll along the riverfront at Clarke Quay and Marina Bay Sands, taking in the city’s skyline.

Best places to eat in Singapore:

  1. Maxwell Food Centre – Located in the heart of Chinatown, Maxwell Food Centre is a hawker center that offers a wide variety of local dishes at affordable prices. Don’t miss out on the famous Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice or the delicious Char Kway Teow.
  2. Labyrinth – For a more upscale dining experience, head to Labyrinth in Esplanade Mall. Chef Han Li Guang fuses traditional Singaporean flavors with modern cooking techniques to create innovative dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.
  3. Burnt Ends – Meat lovers will rejoice at Burnt Ends, a modern Australian barbecue restaurant in Chinatown. The mouthwatering smoked meats and inventive small plates make this a must-visit for foodies.

Top dishes to try in Singapore:

  1. Chili Crab – This iconic dish consists of crab cooked in a spicy and savory tomato-based sauce. Dip your fried mantou buns in the sauce for the ultimate culinary experience.
  2. Laksa – A rich and fragrant coconut curry noodle soup, laksa is a comforting dish that is packed full of flavor. Don’t forget to add a dollop of sambal chili for an extra kick of heat.
  3. Hainanese Chicken Rice – Tender poached chicken served on fragrant chicken-infused rice, this simple yet delicious dish is a staple in Singaporean cuisine. Be sure to drizzle the chicken with the accompanying ginger and chili sauces for added flavor.

Where to find the best traditional Singaporean food:

  1. Tiong Bahru Market – This historic hawker center in the Tiong Bahru neighborhood is home to a plethora of traditional Singaporean dishes, from Bak Kut Teh to Hokkien Mee. Be prepared to wait in line for some of the more popular stalls, but the delicious food is well worth it.
  2. East Coast Lagoon Food Village – Situated along the scenic East Coast Park, this hawker center offers a wide range of seafood dishes such as BBQ stingray and Satay. Grab a table by the beach and enjoy a meal while taking in the sea breeze.
  3. Peranakan Flavours – For a taste of Peranakan cuisine, head to restaurants like Candlenut or Violet Oon Singapore. These establishments serve up traditional dishes such as Ayam Buah Keluak and Babi Pongteh that are sure to delight your taste buds.

Conclusion:

Singapore offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers from the UAE, from futuristic attractions and cultural neighborhoods to serene gardens and stunning waterfronts. Whether you’re exploring free attractions or indulging in paid experiences, Singapore promises an unforgettable journey filled with adventure and discovery. Now we’ve got you covered with the best places to visit in Singapore. So, plan your trip, pack your essentials, and embark on a memorable adventure in the Lion City! Contact us for travel and visa assistance with your Singapore trip.

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