Singapore
The polished 3-day city break — foodie heaven, immaculate transport, family-friendly.
Quick facts
- Capital: Singapore
- Main airport: Changi Airport (SIN), one of the world's best
- Languages: English, Mandarin, Malay, Tamil
- Currency: Singapore Dollar (SGD). 1 SGD ≈ 2.75 AED
- Best flight time from Dubai: 3.5 hours direct on Emirates, Flydubai, or Singapore Airlines
Visa for UAE residents
UAE passport holders get 30 days on arrival with no advance visa needed. Indian, Pakistani, and Filipino passport holders typically require an eVisa or can apply online via Singapore's ICA website. British passport holders don't need a visa for up to 6 months. Check the specific requirement for your passport before booking.
When to visit
February to April and July to September offer the driest weather. Avoid November to January if you dislike rain, and skip Chinese New Year (January or February) unless you want to experience the celebrations but expect crowds and higher prices. The island stays warm year-round (25-35 degrees Celsius).
Rough budget in AED (7 days, per person)
| Tier | Daily | 7-day total |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | 300-400 AED | 2,100-2,800 AED |
| Mid-range | 500-700 AED | 3,500-4,900 AED |
| Premium | 1,000+ AED | 7,000+ AED |
Budget covers hawker meals (20-30 AED), hostels, and public transport. Mid-range adds casual restaurants and decent hotels. Premium is hotels, fine dining, and tours.
Highlights
- Marina Bay Sands rooftop observation deck at sunset, then dinner in the surrounding quarter
- Gardens by the Bay's Supertree light show (free to watch from outside, paid entry for conservatories)
- Chinatown's temple alleys, street food, and vintage shops between Outram and Tanjong Pagar
- Sentosa Island for beaches, Universal Studios Singapore, and the S.E.A. Aquarium
- Kampong Glam's Arab Street for textiles, spices, and Middle Eastern food (familiar comfort for UAE residents)
- Singapore Zoo and Night Safari for wildlife without the heat of a full-day trek
Local etiquette
Dress modestly in religious spaces (temples, mosques, churches). Tipping isn't expected but a 10% service charge is often added to bills. Chewing gum in public is frowned upon. Alcohol is available and legal but expensive due to high taxes. Smoking is banned in most indoor spaces.
Safety notes
Singapore is one of the world's safest cities. Petty theft in crowded areas (MRT, markets) happens occasionally, so watch your bag. The main practical risk is the humid heat, so stay hydrated.
Getting around
The MRT (metro) is fast, clean, and cheap (single trips around 1.50-3 SGD or 4-8 AED). Buy a reloadable card at Changi or any station. Taxis are metered and reliable, though Grab (the app) is often faster and more transparent on pricing. Walking is viable in most districts, but the heat means short hops by MRT make sense.
Best combined trip
Add Kuala Lumpur (2.5 hours by budget airline or train) or Phuket (2 hours by flight) to break up a city stay with nature or beach time.
Common questions about Singapore
How many days do I need in Singapore?
Four to five days is ideal. Two days covers Marina Bay, Gardens, and Chinatown. Add another day for Sentosa or the Zoo. A week lets you slow down, eat well, and catch a day trip to Malacca or Batam. Three days works if you're in transit, but you'll feel rushed.
Is Singapore family-friendly?
Very much so. The Zoo, Night Safari, Universal Studios, and S.E.A. Aquarium keep kids engaged. Hawker centres are safe and offer affordable meals. Public transport is clean and straightforward. The heat and crowds are the only friction points. Malaria isn't a concern, and tap water is drinkable.
Can I drink alcohol in Singapore, and is halal food easy to find?
Yes, alcohol is legal and widely available, though expensive (beer around 12-15 SGD in a bar or 4-5 AED in a shop). Halal food is everywhere. Kampong Glam has dedicated halal restaurants, and most hawker stalls are clearly marked. Malay, Indian, and Pakistani food dominates the affordable end, making it comfortable for many UAE residents.
What's the cheapest month to visit Singapore?
June and September typically see fewer tourists and lower hotel rates compared to February and December. You'll face more rain, but it's warm rain for short bursts. Avoid Chinese New Year (late January/early February) and school holidays (June and December) unless you're targeting those events. Booking mid-week flights from Dubai saves 500-1,000 AED compared to weekends.
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