The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) said Tuesday it expects Singapore to welcome between 17 million and 18.5 million visitor arrivals in 2025, bringing in SG$29.0 billion to SG$30.5 billion (US$21.5 billion to US$22.5 billion) in tourism receipts.
The forecast comes with Singapore having recorded 16.5 million visitor arrivals in 2024, while tourism receipts for the first nine months of the year reached SG$22.4 billion (US$16.6 billion). The FY24 tourism receipts figure will be available in 2Q25.
According to the STB, all spend categories showed year-on-year growth between January and September, led by Sightseeing, Entertainment & Gaming at 25%, followed by Accommodation at 17%. Food & Beverage recorded a 6% increase and Shopping a 5% increase.
Mainland China was the top market for visitor arrivals during the period with 3.08 million, generating tourism receipts of SG$3.58 billion (US$2.65 billion), followed by Indonesia with 2.49 million arrivals and SG$2.13 billion (US$1.58 billion) in receipts.
The STB noted that key factors contributing to the overall growth in visitor arrivals in 2024 include Singapore’s robust year-round calendar of lifestyle events and concerts, including those in and around integrated resorts Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa.
STB CEO Melissa Ow said, “As we look back at 2024, as well as our achievements over the last 60 years, tourism has contributed to the economy, reinforcing our international reputation and providing more lifestyle options for visitors and residents. Together with our industry partners, STB is committed to sustain our tourism growth, by increasing Singapore’s mind share and market share, maintaining a diversified market portfolio and strengthening destination vibrancy.
“Our Tourism 2040 roadmap will guide our efforts to drive the next phase of quality tourism growth for Singapore. This will ensure Singapore continues to thrive as a world-class destination that meets the needs of the evolving global traveller.”