Singapore’s Tourism Boom: 2024 Set to Break Records

SINGAPORE – Tourism in Singapore is on course to hit a historic high in 2024, with spending projected to exceed the pre-pandemic record of $27.7 billion from 2019, according to the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) on Feb 4.

Tourism revenue for the year is anticipated to reach the upper range of STB’s forecast of $27.5 billion to $29 billion, having already recorded $22.4 billion from January to September 2024—a 10% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The full-year figures will be available in the second quarter of 2025.

Visitor Arrivals on the Rise

International arrivals continued their steady growth, reaching 16.5 million in 2024—a 21% increase from 2023. While still below the pre-pandemic peak of 19.1 million in 2019, the recovery remains strong.

The top three markets contributing to this surge were:

  • China – 3.08 million visitors
  • Indonesia – 2.49 million visitors
  • India – 1.2 million visitors

Additionally, visitor numbers from Japan, Taiwan, the UK, and the US saw robust year-on-year growth. STB credited the increase to key factors such as the implementation of a 30-day mutual visa exemption between Singapore and China in February 2024 and enhanced global air connectivity.

Air Travel and Tourism Spending at Record Levels

Changi Airport reported a near-complete recovery, handling 67.7 million passengers in 2024—99.1% of pre-pandemic levels.

Tourist spending grew across all key categories:

  • Sightseeing, entertainment, and gaming – up 25%
  • Accommodation – up 17%
  • Food & beverage – up 6%
  • Shopping – up 5%

Other sectors, including business travel and airfares, also contributed significantly to the overall tourism revenue.

Entertainment, Attractions, and Major Events Boost Tourism

Singapore’s vibrant lineup of events and entertainment was a major driver of tourism growth. Mega concerts by Coldplay, Ed Sheeran, and Taylor Swift not only boosted the economy but also enhanced Singapore’s reputation as a global entertainment hub.

Key attractions and events that drew significant visitor traffic included:

  • Disney & Pixar topiaries at Gardens by the Bay
  • Sensoryscape at Sentosa
  • Studio Ghibli exhibition at Marina Bay Sands’ ArtScience Museum
  • Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix 2024
  • Singapore Art Week

“2024 has been a landmark year for global entertainment in Singapore,” STB stated, emphasizing its continued efforts to attract a diverse array of events spanning lifestyle, arts, and sports. With record-breaking tourism revenue, strong visitor numbers, and a thriving entertainment scene, Singapore’s tourism sector is poised for sustained success in the years ahead.