Wednesday, February 5, 2025 Singapore experienced a remarkable surge in tourism in 2024, welcoming 16.5 million international visitors—an impressive 21% increase from the previous year. This rise in arrivals also drove tourism spending to new heights, with receipts reaching S$22.
4 billion (US$16.4 billion) from January to September 2024, establishing a fresh benchmark in visitor expenditure. Multiple elements contributed to this strong performance.
The introduction of a visa exemption for Chinese travelers in early 2024 significantly boosted visitor numbers from China. Improved air connectivity further supported growth, with Changi Airport reporting a 15% increase in international seat capacity, restoring levels to 98% of pre-pandemic figures. Singapore’s vibrant lineup of events also played a crucial role.
The city hosted a variety of major sporting events, international concerts, business conferences, and large-scale trade exhibitions, drawing visitors from across the globe. The majority of Singapore’s visitors in 2024 came from Asia, with China, Indonesia, and India leading the way: Tourism receipts from January to September 2024 recorded a 10% year-on-year increase. Chinese tourists led in spending, contributing S$3.
58 billion, followed by visitors from Indonesia (S$2.13 billion) and Australia (S$1.44 billion).
Sightseeing, entertainment, and gaming saw the highest growth at 25%, while accommodation spending rose by 17%, food and beverage by 6%, and shopping by 5%. .