Singapore Sees Record Growth in Luxury Tourism in 2025 with Indian Tourists Driving the Boom

Published on December 15, 2025

Singapore, long known for its vibrant tourism scene, has seen a significant increase in visitor numbers in 2025. Between January and October, the island nation welcomed 14.25 million visitors, a 2.5% increase from the previous year. Among the many factors driving this growth, luxury tourism has emerged as a standout, with affluent tourists from countries such as India leading the way. This increase in luxury spending, combined with a steady rise in the number of high-net-worth individuals, is changing the city’s tourism landscape.

Luxury Spending Growth in Singapore

One of the most striking trends in Singapore’s tourism industry for 2025 is the remarkable growth in luxury spending. According to Euromonitor International, Singapore is set to experience a 7-9% increase in luxury sales this year, reaching an estimated SGD 13.9 billion. This growth comes despite a global downturn in luxury spending, making Singapore a standout performer among major shopping destinations in Asia. The city-state is outperforming regional luxury hubs like China and Japan, cementing its position as a premium shopping destination in Southeast Asia.

The luxury sales boom is largely driven by affluent consumers, many of whom are seeking not just high-end products but also exclusive experiences that embody the essence of “quiet luxury”. These experiences, which emphasize understated elegance and sophistication, are resonating with a growing number of visitors, particularly those from India, China, and Indonesia. The spending trends signal a shift towards a more discerning and experience-driven market, as tourists seek to indulge in unique and premium offerings.

Indian Tourists as Major Contributors to Luxury Spending

Among the many international tourists flocking to Singapore, Indian visitors stand out as some of the most significant contributors to the country’s luxury market. The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) reports that Indian tourists spent approximately SGD 812.17 million in Singapore during the first half of 2025. This represents a 4.4% increase from the previous year, showcasing the growing affluence of India’s travel market. As one of the island nation’s most commercially valuable markets, Indian tourists are a vital driving force behind the sustained growth in luxury retail.

One of the key factors contributing to this growth is the longer-than-average duration of stays among Indian visitors. With an average stay of 6.3 days, Indian tourists are more likely to spend extensively across various sectors, including retail, dining, entertainment, and accommodation. This extended stay allows them to immerse themselves fully in Singapore’s offerings, from exclusive shopping at Orchard Road to enjoying world-class dining experiences. Moreover, many Indian visitors are increasingly seeking luxurious and personalized travel experiences, further fuelling their spending patterns.

Orchard Road: Singapore’s Luxury Shopping Hub

At the heart of Singapore’s luxury tourism experience is Orchard Road, the city’s most iconic shopping district. Known for its upscale boutiques, high-end department stores, and luxury brand showrooms, Orchard Road is a magnet for tourists seeking the finest products and experiences. It’s here that Singapore’s luxury retail boom is most evident, with global luxury brands such as Prada and Van Cleef & Arpels making their presence felt through impressive outdoor installations and seasonal displays.

During the festive season, Orchard Road transforms into a dazzling hub of activity, drawing millions of visitors who come to experience the city’s famous Christmas Light-Up. This annual event, ranked among the world’s top five light displays, features breathtaking decorations, snowfall shows, live performances, and a lively Christmas market. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with the proximity to luxury retail outlets, makes Orchard Road a prime destination for affluent tourists, especially those from India, looking to indulge in both shopping and festive entertainment.

The Growing Affluent Base in India and Its Impact on Singapore’s Tourism

India’s expanding affluent population is another key factor driving Singapore’s luxury tourism growth. As India’s middle and upper-middle class continues to grow, an increasing number of Indian consumers are seeking international luxury experiences, jewellery, and high-end fashion. This shift is a reflection of rising disposable incomes and changing aspirational lifestyles, with more Indians looking to travel abroad and splurge on premium products.

The Mastercard Economics Institute’s 2024 Travel Trends report highlights that India’s growing affluent base is becoming more discerning in its travel choices, with a clear preference for luxury experiences. The Indian market’s increasing appetite for high-end goods and services is expected to continue driving growth in Singapore’s luxury tourism sector for the foreseeable future. Singapore, with its world-class shopping and dining options, is well-positioned to cater to this demand, attracting more Indian visitors each year.

A Growing Number of High-Net-Worth Individuals in Singapore

Alongside the influx of international luxury tourists, Singapore itself is witnessing a rise in its population of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). According to a UBS wealth report released in December 2025, Singapore is home to 55 billionaires, contributing to the city’s growing reputation as a global financial and luxury hub. This rise in HNWIs further fuels the demand for premium products and services, ensuring that Singapore remains a top destination for those seeking exclusivity and sophistication.

The growing presence of HNWIs also supports the city’s thriving luxury retail scene. As more wealth accumulates in Singapore, local retailers and international brands are increasingly catering to this elite clientele by offering bespoke experiences, limited-edition products, and VIP services. This shift towards tailored luxury is helping to solidify Singapore’s reputation as a hub for both local and international wealth.

The Future of Luxury Tourism in Singapore

Singapore’s luxury tourism sector is expected to grow further in 2025 and beyond, driven by affluent visitors from India, China, and Indonesia. Extended stays, increased discretionary spending, and a growing demand for exclusive experiences are propelling Singapore to the forefront of luxury tourism worldwide. With Orchard Road serving as the epicentre of this boom, Singapore is poised to remain a top destination for high-end retail and experiential tourism. As the city adapts to the changing needs of luxury consumers, it will most likely continue to outperform other regional shopping centres, cementing its position as one of the world’s premier luxury destinations.