Singapore Emerges as Asia’s Luxury Shopping Powerhouse with Indian Tourists Leading Premium Spending Surge

Published on December 15, 2025

Singapore is emerging as a standout destination for luxury shopping, fueled by a growing influx of high-spending international visitors. Among these, travellers from India have become a particularly influential segment, significantly contributing to the city-state’s resilience in premium retail at a time when luxury markets in much of the world are experiencing slower growth.

Data from the first half of 2025 shows that Indian tourists spent over SGD 812 million in Singapore, representing a notable increase from the previous year. Their spending is concentrated not only in fashion and jewellery but also across fine dining, entertainment, and premium accommodation. This combination of retail and leisure activity has positioned Indian travellers as key drivers of Singapore’s luxury economy.

One factor behind the high spending levels is the length of stay. Indian visitors typically remain in Singapore for over six days, a pattern that encourages broader and higher-value expenditures. Extended visits provide ample opportunity to explore shopping districts, attend cultural or seasonal events, and experience high-end dining, resulting in more comprehensive economic contributions compared with shorter-stay tourists.

Orchard Road, Singapore’s premier shopping corridor, continues to benefit the most from this trend. Known for its concentration of luxury boutiques and flagship stores, the area attracts visitors seeking both variety and quality. The proximity of hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues further enhances the district’s appeal, allowing tourists to seamlessly integrate luxury shopping with broader leisure experiences.

Visitors from China and Indonesia are also contributing to the city’s premium retail growth, creating a diversified international customer base that buffers Singapore from global slowdowns affecting other major markets. The combination of multiple high-spending regions ensures that the city maintains robust retail performance despite fluctuating economic conditions elsewhere.

Consumer behaviour patterns in India are also influencing this trend. Rising disposable incomes and a growing affluent population are fueling a desire for luxury products that emphasise craftsmanship, quality, and unique experiences rather than conspicuous branding. Singapore’s reputation for authenticity, reliability, and curated high-end offerings aligns perfectly with these evolving preferences, making it an attractive destination for discerning shoppers.

Visitor arrival statistics further highlight Singapore’s appeal. Indian arrivals surpassed one million in the first ten months of 2025, contributing to total international visitor numbers of over 14 million. These figures illustrate both the city’s ongoing recovery in travel and its growing stature as a hub for premium leisure and shopping experiences.

Industry forecasts project continued growth for Singapore’s luxury sector, with expected increases of seven to nine percent in 2025, potentially reaching around SGD 14 billion in total sales. This projected performance positions Singapore ahead of several other leading Asian shopping destinations and reinforces its reputation as a regional luxury retail leader.

High-net-worth residents within Singapore also play a role in sustaining demand. The growing local market for premium products and services complements international tourism, encouraging retailers to expand offerings that emphasise understated elegance and personalised experiences. These trends reflect a shift toward “quiet luxury,” where quality and exclusivity are prioritised over overt branding.

Luxury brands have responded with significant investment in experiential retail. Flagship stores, interactive installations, and curated events are increasingly common, creating environments that engage visitors beyond traditional shopping. These initiatives are particularly impactful during peak periods, when tourism numbers surge.

Seasonal festivities further boost retail activity, transforming major shopping districts into lively destinations featuring decorative displays, markets, cultural performances, and immersive entertainment. Such events not only attract tourists but also encourage longer stays, benefiting both retail and hospitality sectors.

Singapore’s broader infrastructure supports these trends. Efficient transport, safety, world-class hotels, and diverse dining options make it simple for visitors to combine shopping with cultural, wellness, and leisure activities. This seamless integration enhances the overall visitor experience, driving higher spending and repeat visits.

With strong demand from Indian travellers, a diversified international visitor base, and continued investment in high-quality retail experiences, Singapore is solidifying its position as one of Asia’s most dynamic and resilient luxury shopping destinations. Its ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences and provide a seamless, high-end experience ensures that the city will remain a top choice for premium travellers in the years ahead.