Arab Street District

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Singapore Tourism Board
Photo provided by Singapore Tourism Board
Arab Street District featuring shopping, signage and a city
Arab Street District which includes interior views
Arab Street District which includes interior views and markets

Head to this area for a taste of the Middle East, to shop for a bargain in the shophouses and to marvel at the mosques.

Arab Street, also known as Kampong Glam, forms the heart of Singapore's Muslim community. In particular, this was where Arab traders came in the early days of the colony. These days, you're just as likely to see tourists here. As one of them, enjoy delicious Arabic cuisine, sensuous perfumes and enchanting Middle Eastern architecture.

Sir Stamford Raffles designated Arab Street in Singapore's Town Plan of 1822. Today, it is still inhabited by many from that region, but also possesses an international vibe. If possible, visit Arab Street during the day – this is when the district throngs with merchants and visitors. Even if you're not planning to buy anything, it's well worth window shopping for countless carpets, perfumes and foodstuffs. If you do find something you want, don't be afraid to barter – it's all part of the fun.

Arab Street's defining landmark is the Sultan Mosque, or Masjid Sultan. It's hard to miss, owing to its grand golden dome. Built in the 19th century, the mosque has changed little since, and is in constant use by the community. It makes a superb photo opportunity, especially aglow in the mid-morning sun. Istana Kampong Glam, the former Malay palace, should also be on your itinerary.

Arab Street is packed with high-quality eateries, making it one of Singapore's finest foodie districts. The choice is wide and varied, and in no way limited to Middle Eastern. Choose from Moroccan tagines, Chinese noodles, Lebanese mezze, Japanese sushi and much more.

While in the Arab Street district, also make sure that you visit some of the surrounding streets, including Bussorah Street, Muscat Street and Baghdad Street.

The Arab Street district is close to the downtown centre of Singapore. If your accommodation is in this area, it's easy to get here by foot. If using public transport, take the East-West MRT line.

Where to stay in Arab Street District

Bugis Street Shopping District featuring shopping and food

Bugis Village

If you're spending time in Bugis Village, you might enjoy attractions like Bugis Street Shopping District and Bugis+ Shopping Center. You might also enjoy the neighbourhood's ample dining options before hopping on the metro at Bugis Station to see more of the city.

Bugis Village
Haji Lane showing a city, night scenes and signage

Kampong Glam

4.5/5(91 area reviews)

Travellers love Kampong Glam for its popular shops, and you can see more of Arab Street District by jumping on the metro at Bugis Station or Lavender Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Sultan Mosque and Haji Lane.

Kampong Glam
Hotel Boss
Hotel Boss
3.5 out of 5
500 Jalan Sultan Road, Singapore
The price is S$118 per night from 3 Jul to 4 Jul
S$118
3 Jul - 4 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star hotel in Singapore. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our ...
7.4/10 Good! (1,003 reviews)
"Walking distance to MRT station and bus stops. Very convenient with shops and dining restaurants at the surrounding area."

Reviewed on 29 Jun, 2025

Hotel Boss
ANDAZ SINGAPORE, BY HYATT
ANDAZ SINGAPORE, BY HYATT
5 out of 5
5 Fraser Street, Singapore
The price is S$417 per night from 12 Jul to 13 Jul
S$417
12 Jul - 13 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Singapore. Enjoy free WiFi, 3 restaurants, and 2 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,000 reviews)
"Property was a fair price for a Singapore hotel - boutique hotwl"

Reviewed on 17 Jun, 2025

ANDAZ SINGAPORE, BY HYATT
Hotel Traveltine
Hotel Traveltine
4 out of 5
700 Beach Rd, Singapore
The price is S$238 per night from 4 Jul to 5 Jul
S$238
4 Jul - 5 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Singapore. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff in ...
8/10 Very Good! (285 reviews)
"Did not want a full buffet and could not get a coffee without buffet. Coffee and snack capability would be good"

Reviewed on 26 Jun, 2025

Hotel Traveltine
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Weave Suites - Midtown
Weave Suites - Midtown
2 out of 5
33 Jln Sultan, Singapore
Stay at this aparthotel in Singapore. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and rainfall showerheads. Popular attractions Marina Bay Sands Casino and Gardens ...
Weave Suites - Midtown
Ascott Raffles Place Singapore
Ascott Raffles Place Singapore
5 out of 5
No 2 Finlayson Green, Singapore
Stay at this 5-star luxury aparthotel in Singapore. Enjoy free WiFi, a rooftop terrace, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (456 reviews)
"Great location. Old hotel. Needs modernization and updating. (Housekeeping was helpful. )."

Reviewed on 26 Jun, 2025

Ascott Raffles Place Singapore
Citadines Raffles Place Singapore
Citadines Raffles Place Singapore
3.5 out of 5
88 Market Street, Level 9, Singapore
Stay at this 3.5-star hotel in Singapore. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9/10 Wonderful! (380 reviews)
"Enjoy our stay very much. The employees were very helpful and cordial."

Reviewed on 29 Jun, 2025

Citadines Raffles Place Singapore
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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