Singapore

Singapore is an amazing city-state located on islands in Southeast Asia, at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. It is a place where East meets West, creating a unique kaleidoscope of cultures, languages, and traditions. Its compact size is deceptive: Singapore impresses with its multifaceted character, offering travellers futuristic architecture, lush tropical gardens, and a rich historical heritage. The nation's capital, Singapore, is both the main city and the heart of the entire nation.

Singapore is often called the 'city of the future' thanks to its innovative technology, impeccable cleanliness, and well-planned urban environment. Despite its high-density development, great importance is placed on ecology; the famous Gardens by the Bay, with their giant supertrees and conservatories, are a vivid testament to this. The climate in Singapore is equatorial—hot and humid all year round, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate warm weather and tropical greenery. One of its most recognisable landmarks is the Marina Bay Sands complex, with its famous rooftop infinity pool.

The general atmosphere of Singapore is a harmonious blend of metropolitan energy and the tranquillity of well-kept parks. Here, you can enjoy a diverse culinary scene, from street food in UNESCO-recognised hawker centres to fine-dining restaurants. For Muslim travellers, finding halal food is convenient, with many certified eateries available, including in popular food courts and the historic Kampong Glam district. The country is a safe, welcoming, and incredibly interesting place that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who visits, whether strolling through the futuristic Changi Airport or visiting the Universal Studios Singapore theme park.

The official currency of Singapore is the Singapore dollar, which has the international code SGD. Banknotes often feature a portrait of Yusof bin Ishak, the country's first president, alongside symbolic images that reflect Singapore's culture, history, and achievements. It is worth noting that many banknotes are made from polymer materials, which increases their durability. Coins of various denominations are also in circulation.

When exchanging currency, such as your UAE Dirhams (AED) for Singapore Dollars (SGD), it is best to use official banks or licensed money changers. These are easy to find at the airport, in shopping centres, and in tourist areas. Try to avoid exchange offers from private individuals or unauthorised locations. For cashless payments, credit and debit cards (especially Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted and can be used in most hotels, restaurants, shops, and even taxis. The ATM network is also well-developed, making it easy to withdraw cash if needed.

When planning a trip to Singapore, it's essential to understand the visa requirements in advance. For citizens of the United Arab Emirates, tourist and business travel is straightforward as they are entitled to visa-free entry for up to 30 days. However, residents in the UAE holding other nationalities may need to apply for a visa before travelling. For those who require a visa, it is often an electronic visa (e-Visa) that can be arranged online through authorised agents or Singapore's official immigration services.

Regardless of your visa status, all travellers entering Singapore must hold a passport with at least six months' validity from the date of entry. You will also need a confirmed return ticket or an onward ticket to a third country, and you may be asked for proof of hotel reservations and sufficient funds for your stay. As visa regulations can change, it is highly recommended to verify the latest information on the official website of Singapore's Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) before your trip.

When planning a trip to Singapore, you will not have to worry about changing time zones within the country. The entire nation observes a single time zone – Singapore Standard Time (SGT), which is UTC+8. This means the time is the same in every corner of the island nation, which makes planning your movements and activities much simpler. For travellers from the UAE, it is useful to know that Singapore is four hours ahead of Gulf Standard Time (GST).

As one of the world's leading transport hubs, Singapore is exceptionally well-connected by air. The primary gateway to the nation is the renowned Changi International Airport, consistently voted among the best in the world. For travellers from the UAE, major airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Singapore Airlines offer direct flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with an approximate flight time of seven to eight hours. Convenient connecting flights are also available from most major cities across Asia, Europe, North America, and Australia.

It is also possible to reach Singapore by land when travelling from Malaysia. Bus services operate across two crossings (the Causeway and the Second Link), and you can also cross the border by car. Furthermore, Singapore is a popular port of call for cruise liners on Southeast Asian tours and offers ferry services to several nearby Indonesian islands.

Whichever way you choose to travel, it is advisable to book your tickets to Singapore well in advance, particularly if your trip coincides with the peak tourist season or major public holidays. This will help you not only to save money but also to guarantee availability.

For your reference, here is some information on the country's main international airport:

Singapore is a unique city-state where all the main tourist attractions are concentrated in one incredibly dynamic metropolis. Instead of numerous separate cities or remote resort areas, it is Singapore itself that offers travellers a concentrated variety of experiences: from futuristic business districts and luxury shopping to colourful ethnic enclaves and tropical leisure parks, all within a single urban landscape.

This amazing city-state, which is also its own capital, attracts visitors with its ultra-modern architecture, the world-famous Gardens by the Bay, and the iconic Orchard Road with its countless shops. Immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of Chinatown or Little India, and enjoy the vast gastronomic diversity, with an abundance of halal-certified options available across the city. Do not forget to visit Sentosa Island – a popular entertainment hub with beaches, theme parks, and a casino, which is effectively part of greater Singapore. With mosques and prayer facilities conveniently located throughout the island, it is a welcoming destination for Muslim travellers. Here, everyone will find something to their liking as they discover the multifaceted character of this Asian marvel.

Singapore is a city-state that captures the imagination with its futuristic architecture, lush tropical gardens, and an incredible fusion of cultures. Everyone can find something to enjoy here, from thrilling attractions to serene natural oases. Let's explore some of the most spectacular attractions in this amazing destination.

One of Singapore's most iconic landmarks is undoubtedly Gardens by the Bay. This vast, futuristic park is famous for its giant ‘Supertrees’ – vertical gardens that are particularly spectacular in the evening when the Garden Rhapsody light and sound show begins. The park also features two enormous conservatories: the Flower Dome, with its collection of plants from around the world, and the Cloud Forest, which houses a magnificent indoor waterfall.

Nearby stands another symbol of modern Singapore: the Marina Bay Sands hotel and entertainment complex. Its three towers are topped by a massive cantilevered platform, home to the famous infinity pool and the SkyPark Observation Deck. It offers breathtaking views of the city and the bay. The complex also houses a casino, luxury retail stores, world-class restaurants, and a theatre.

For thrill-seekers and entertainment lovers, a visit to Universal Studios Singapore on Sentosa Island is an absolute must. Here, you will discover thrilling rides and attractions based on famous films and animations, spectacular live shows, and opportunities to meet your favourite characters. It is a place where fun is guaranteed for children and adults alike.

If you prefer to connect with nature, head to the Singapore Zoo, widely regarded as one of the best in the world. Its uniqueness lies in its 'open concept' design, where animals roam in spacious, naturalistic enclosures that simulate their natural habitats. Here, you can see rare and exotic animals from across the globe and also experience the famous Night Safari, the world's first nocturnal zoo. For the comfort of visitors, the zoo is wheelchair-friendly and provides facilities such as prayer rooms.

With its equatorial climate, Singapore welcomes visitors all year round. The weather is consistently warm and humid, with daytime air temperatures typically ranging between 28-32°C. However, to make your trip as comfortable and eventful as possible, it's worth considering some seasonal variations and key events.

High season in Singapore is generally from February to April. During this period, there is less rainfall and slightly lower humidity, making the weather more favourable for long walks and exploring the city's many attractions. Peak periods also coincide with major international events and festivals, such as Chinese New Year (January-February), the famous Formula 1 Grand Prix (typically held in September or October), and the Christmas and New Year holidays. For travellers from the UAE, it's useful to know that Singapore is a hub for Halal-certified cuisine and offers numerous prayer facilities in malls and public areas. The advantages of visiting during high season are the more pleasant weather and the vibrant festive atmosphere. However, be prepared for a large influx of tourists and consequently higher prices for accommodation and flights.

The low season, or off-season, can be considered the months affected by the monsoons: the northeast monsoon (from November to January), which brings the most rainfall, and the southwest monsoon (from June to September), which is known for its morning thunderstorms called "Sumatran squalls". The inter-monsoon periods (such as May and October) can also feature high humidity and frequent, though usually brief, downpours. Another major draw during this time is the Great Singapore Sale, which typically runs from June to August, offering massive discounts across the city. There are generally fewer tourists during these months, which can lead to lower travel costs and the opportunity to enjoy attractions without the crowds. Despite the rain, Singapore remains an evergreen garden city, and the showers only add to the freshness of its lush vegetation. Given the country's compact size, the climate is quite uniform, so there is no need to research weather for different regions separately.

Singapore is a remarkable fusion of Asian and European cultures, and knowing the local customs will help you feel more confident and show respect to its residents. A light handshake is customary when meeting and greeting people, especially with members of the older generation. Eye contact is important, but you should avoid staring. If you are invited to someone's home, a small token gift, such as fruit or sweets, will be gratefully accepted; it is a thoughtful gesture to ensure any food items are halal. However, you should avoid giving clocks, knives, or handkerchiefs, as these can be associated with negative superstitions. Overall, Singaporeans greatly value politeness and tact.

Pay special attention to your clothing when visiting religious sites such as temples, mosques, or monasteries. Here, modest attire that covers the shoulders and knees is required. Always remove your shoes before entering a private home or a place of worship. At the dining table, if you are using chopsticks, never stick them upright in a bowl of rice – this is considered bad manners as it resembles incense sticks used at funerals. Tipping is not generally expected in Singapore, as a service charge is often already included in the bill. Avoid pointing at anyone or anything with your index finger; it is better to use an open palm or the thumb of a clenched fist instead.

Among the important aspects of behaviour, do not touch another person's head, as the head is often considered sacred in Asian cultures. It is also worth remembering the strict rules about cleanliness: littering or smoking in non-designated areas can result in significant fines. Avoid public displays of strong emotion and loud conversations. Key festivals that reflect the country's cultural diversity include Chinese New Year, with its vibrant decorations and the tradition of giving red "ang bao" packets for good luck, and Hari Raya Puasa, which marks the end of the month of Ramadan. Respect for these traditions will make your journey through Singapore even more enriching and pleasant.

Singapore offers travellers an incredible variety of entertainment to suit every taste, harmoniously blending ultra-modern achievements with natural oases and a rich cultural heritage. Despite its reputation as a high-tech metropolis, there are also activities for lovers of the great outdoors: from leisurely strolls and cycling through picturesque parks, such as the famous Gardens by the Bay, to various water sports along the coast. Singapore's cultural life is rich and multifaceted, with numerous world-class museums, art galleries, theatres, and concert halls offering programmes that reflect a unique fusion of Asian and European traditions.

As evening falls, Singapore transforms, revealing a vibrant evening scene. Guests can enjoy stylish rooftop lounges with breathtaking panoramic city views, especially in the Marina Bay Sands area, lively clubs with music for all tastes, and cosy restaurants. These establishments offer everything from exquisite fine dining to authentic local delicacies, with a wide array of halal options available throughout the city to cater to Muslim visitors. For shoppers, Singapore is a true paradise. In addition to world-renowned shopping streets like Orchard Road, you can find unique souvenirs that reflect the country's culture, quality electronics, designer clothing, and crafts by local artisans.

Families with children will also find plenty to do in Singapore, as the city-state provides all the conditions for an unforgettable holiday. It prides itself on its world-class theme parks, such as Universal Studios Singapore on Sentosa Island, which is also home to the Resorts World Sentosa entertainment complex. A must-see on any itinerary is a visit to one of the world's best zoos, the Singapore Zoo, as well as numerous interactive museums and water parks that promise a wealth of positive emotions for both young and adult travellers. Many attractions and shopping centres also provide dedicated prayer rooms and family-friendly facilities.

Planning a trip? Wonderful! To ensure the financial aspects of your journey don’t come as a surprise, it’s important to remember that currency exchange rates are constantly changing. Therefore, we strongly advise you to monitor the latest rates both before your departure and throughout your trip. To do this, you can use the data provided below — we monitor currency rates 24/7 and strive to provide the most up-to-date information.