Singapore has seen a significant uptick in luxury spending, with Indian tourists at the forefront. In the first half of 2025, visitors from India contributed a staggering SGD 812 million to the city-state’s luxury goods market. This marks a 4.4% increase from the same period last year, as Indian travellers continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the demand for high-end products. Despite global declines in luxury spending, Singapore’s retail market remains buoyant, with Indian tourists emerging as one of the biggest contributors to the country’s luxury retail landscape.
Indian Tourists’ Impact on Singapore’s Retail Scene
Indian nationals have been frequenting Singapore for not only its cultural landmarks but also its bustling retail hubs. In particular, the famous Orchard Road area, known for its upscale malls and designer boutiques, has seen an influx of Indian shoppers. These tourists, often on high-end shopping sprees, have helped to bolster the city’s luxury spending, which stands in contrast to the global downturn in premium product purchases.
Indian shoppers have long been key players in Singapore’s luxury goods market. Whether it’s fashion, jewellery, or electronics, they continue to support the high-end retail sector in a major way. The recent tourism statistics reflect this sustained demand, signaling that the Indian market remains a top priority for retailers seeking to tap into a lucrative consumer base.
The Role of Singapore’s Tourism and Retail Associations
The rise in luxury spending by Indian tourists has been backed by Singapore’s robust tourism and retail infrastructure. The Singapore Tourism Board and the Orchard Road Business Association have been key facilitators, ensuring that the city remains an attractive shopping destination for international tourists. Through strategic promotions and exclusive offers, they have capitalized on the increasing interest from Indian travellers, particularly those visiting for leisure and business combined.
This surge in luxury spending also reflects broader trends in global tourism, where Indian tourists are becoming more discerning in their travel choices, prioritizing experiences that offer exclusive access to premium brands and services. Singapore, with its reputation for luxury, has become a natural extension of these evolving preferences.
Travel Tips for Luxury Shoppers in Singapore
For Indian tourists visiting Singapore and looking to indulge in luxury goods, here are some tips to maximize the experience:
Plan ahead for major shopping events: Singapore hosts various shopping festivals and sales events, like the Great Singapore Sale and special Orchard Road promotions. These events often offer discounts on luxury items, so keep an eye on the dates and promotions.
Explore diverse shopping destinations: While Orchard Road is the hub of luxury shopping, don’t overlook other high-end destinations like The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands and ION Orchard for a more exclusive selection of goods.
Take advantage of tax refunds: Singapore offers tax refunds for tourists on certain purchases. Be sure to check for eligibility at participating stores to enjoy this benefit.
Experience the retail ambiance: Luxury shopping in Singapore is not just about purchasing items—it’s also about enjoying the experience. Take the time to explore the elaborate store designs and personalized services that make shopping a true experience in itself.
Don’t forget the gourmet treats: After a long day of shopping, treat yourself to some fine dining at top restaurants in the city, many of which are located along Orchard Road and Marina Bay. These places offer a luxurious dining experience that complements the shopping journey.
Beyond Shopping: Indian Tourists Exploring Singapore’s Attractions
While luxury shopping is a major draw, Indian tourists are also embracing other facets of Singapore’s tourism scene. The city-state boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning parks like Gardens by the Bay, and iconic attractions such as Marina Bay Sands and the Singapore Flyer. For those looking for a balance of luxury shopping and cultural exploration, Singapore is the perfect blend.
In fact, many tourists extend their stay to explore the sights and sounds of Singapore beyond the shopping malls. Attractions such as Sentosa Island, the Singapore Zoo, and the Botanic Gardens make Singapore a well-rounded destination for tourists seeking both retail therapy and natural beauty.
The Future of Luxury Tourism in Singapore
Looking ahead, the future of luxury tourism in Singapore looks promising, with Indian tourists continuing to lead the way. As global tourism recovers and travel patterns shift, it is expected that Singapore’s luxury retail sector will remain resilient, bolstered by the spending power of Indian tourists.
The government and industry stakeholders will likely continue to invest in creating exclusive experiences for high-end shoppers, ensuring that Singapore retains its position as a top destination for global luxury spenders. For Indian travellers, the growing selection of luxury products, along with the vibrant tourism experiences, will only enhance the city’s appeal in the years to come.
Wrapping Up: A Hub for High-End Shoppers
The rise of luxury spending in Singapore is a clear indicator of the growing influence of Indian tourists on global tourism trends. With an increasing appetite for high-end products and exclusive experiences, Indian shoppers are helping Singapore defy global retail challenges. As the trend continues to flourish, both the tourism and retail sectors will likely benefit from the ongoing influx of affluent Indian travellers.
In a significant blow to air travel, three major Asian airlines—Shenzhen Airlines, Batik Air, and Pakistan Airlines—have been forced to cancel several flights across key domestic and international routes due to bad weather conditions. This disruption has affected a wide range of passengers, causing delays, cancellations, and massive inconvenience. The ripple effect of these cancellations is also expected to impact local tourism industries in the affected regions. In this article, we break down the details of these cancellations, the affected regions, and what you need to know if you’re planning to travel with these airlines.
Flight Cancellations Due to Bad Weather: How Many Flights Were Affected?
The disruption caused by bad weather has led to the cancellation of numerous flights from these three airlines, primarily affecting travelers within and outside Asia. Here is an overview of the affected flights:
Shenzhen Airlines
Total Flights Cancelled: 20
Aircraft Type: A320 and ATR
Regions Affected: Key routes including those connecting mainland China with other Asian countries have been disrupted. The flight cancellations have primarily occurred in areas prone to severe weather conditions, especially in airports like Beijing, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou.
Flight Number
Aircraft Type
Origin Airport
Destination Airport
Scheduled Departure Time
CSZ8696
B738
Nantong (NTG / ZSNT)
Guangzhou Baiyun Int’l (CAN / ZGGG)
Tue 07:25AM CST
CSZ8691
B738
Guangzhou Baiyun Int’l (CAN / ZGGG)
Nantong (NTG / ZSNT)
Tue 07:35AM CST
CSZ9821
B738
Guangzhou Baiyun Int’l (CAN / ZGGG)
Wuxi (WUX / ZSWX)
Tue 08:15AM CST
CSZ9373
B738
Nanning Wuxu Int’l (NNG / ZGNN)
Nanjing Lukou Int’l (NKG / ZSNJ)
Tue 08:15AM CST
CSZ9822
B738
Wuxi (WUX / ZSWX)
Guangzhou Baiyun Int’l (CAN / ZGGG)
Tue 11:20AM CST
CSZ9374
B738
Nanjing Lukou Int’l (NKG / ZSNJ)
Nanning Wuxu Int’l (NNG / ZGNN)
Tue 11:30AM CST
CSZ8166
B738
Wuxi (WUX / ZSWX)
Yuncheng (YCU / ZBYC)
Tue 01:55PM CST
CSZ8431
A320
Chengdu Tianfu Int’l (TFU / ZUTF)
Lanzhou Zhongchuan International (LHW / ZLLL)
Tue 03:00PM CST
CSZ9387
B738
Nanning Wuxu Int’l (NNG / ZGNN)
Zhengzhou Xinzheng Int’l (CGO / ZHCC)
Tue 03:10PM CST
CSZ8575
A320
Nanjing Lukou Int’l (NKG / ZSNJ)
Changsha Huanghua Int’l (CSX / ZGHA)
Tue 03:25PM CST
CSZ9275
A320
Xi’an Xianyang Int’l (XIY / ZLXY)
Huizhou Pingtan Airport (HUZ / ZGHZ)
Tue 03:55PM CST
CSZ9260
B738
Nantong (NTG / ZSNT)
Xi’an Xianyang Int’l (XIY / ZLXY)
Tue 04:25PM CST
CSZ8525
B738
Wuxi (WUX / ZSWX)
Guiyang Longdongbao (KWE / ZUGY)
Tue 04:35PM CST
CSZ8165
B738
Yuncheng (YCU / ZBYC)
Wuxi (WUX / ZSWX)
Tue 04:45PM CST
CSZ9547
B738
Wuxi (WUX / ZSWX)
Chengdu Shuangliu Int’l (CTU / ZUUU)
Tue 05:00PM CST
CSZ8432
A320
Lanzhou Zhongchuan International (LHW / ZLLL)
Chengdu Tianfu Int’l (TFU / ZUTF)
Tue 05:40PM CST
CSZ8576
A320
Changsha Huanghua Int’l (CSX / ZGHA)
Nanjing Lukou Int’l (NKG / ZSNJ)
Tue 06:00PM CST
CSZ9375
B738
Nanning Wuxu Int’l (NNG / ZGNN)
Nanjing Lukou Int’l (NKG / ZSNJ)
Tue 06:05PM CST
CSZ9388
B738
Zhengzhou Xinzheng Int’l (CGO / ZHCC)
Nanning Wuxu Int’l (NNG / ZGNN)
Tue 06:40PM CST
CSZ9172
B738
Nantong (NTG / ZSNT)
Beijing Capital Int’l (PEK / ZBAA)
Tue 06:45PM CST
Batik Air
Total Flights Cancelled: 3
Aircraft Type: A320
Regions Affected: Flights operating out of Jakarta-Soekarno-Hatta International Airport have been the most affected, particularly those heading to Yogyakarta and other popular tourist destinations in Indonesia.
Flight Number
Aircraft Type
Origin Airport
Destination Airport
Scheduled Departure Time
BTK6231
A320
Sultan Hasanuddin Int’l (UPG / WAAA)
Jakarta-Soekarno-Hatta Int’l (CGK / WIII)
Mon 09:15PM WITA
BTK7533
A320
Jakarta-Soekarno-Hatta Int’l (CGK / WIII)
Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA / WAHI)
Tue 08:10AM WIB
BTK7540
A320
Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA / WAHI)
Jakarta-Soekarno-Hatta Int’l (CGK / WIII)
Tue 10:00AM WIB
Pakistan Airlines
Total Flights Cancelled: 6
Aircraft Type: ATR and A320
Regions Affected: Multiple domestic routes were impacted, with Islamabad International Airport and Gilgit Airport facing operational slowdowns. The routes to Multan and Karachi were also disrupted.
Flight Number
Aircraft Type
Origin Airport
Destination Airport
Scheduled Departure Time
PIA601
ATR
Islamabad International Airport (ISB / OPIS)
Gilgit (GIL / OPGT)
Tue 07:10AM PKT
PIA602
ATR
Gilgit (GIL / OPGT)
Islamabad International Airport (ISB / OPIS)
Tue 09:15AM PKT
PIA330
A320
Jinnah Int’l (KHI / OPKC)
Multan Int’l (MUX / OPMT)
Tue 09:40AM PKT
PIA603
ATR
Islamabad International Airport (ISB / OPIS)
Gilgit (GIL / OPGT)
Tue 11:20AM PKT
PIA331
A320
Multan Int’l (MUX / OPMT)
Jinnah Int’l (KHI / OPKC)
Tue 12:50PM PKT
PIA604
ATR
Gilgit (GIL / OPGT)
Islamabad International Airport (ISB / OPIS)
Tue 01:25PM PKT
Key Airports Affected
The weather-related flight cancellations have led to disruptions at the following major airports:
Shenzhen Airlines
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK / ZBAA)
Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX / ZGSZ)
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN / ZGGG)
Batik Air
Jakarta-Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK / WIII)
Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA / WAHI)
Pakistan Airlines
Islamabad International Airport (ISB / OPIS)
Gilgit Airport (GIL / OPGT)
Multan International Airport (MUX / OPMT)
Key Regions Affected
Several regions across Asia have felt the impact of these flight cancellations, leading to inconvenience for both local passengers and tourists alike:
Shenzhen Airlines
Beijing: With significant cancellations affecting both domestic and international flights, Beijing is experiencing logistical difficulties, particularly during high travel seasons.
Shenzhen: A major hub for Shenzhen Airlines, flight cancellations here have impacted travelers connecting to other parts of China and Asia.
Guangzhou: As a busy hub, cancellations at Guangzhou Baiyun International have caused delays and disruptions for many inbound and outbound international flights.
Batik Air
Jakarta: With multiple cancellations from Jakarta-Soekarno-Hatta International, passengers traveling between Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and other major Indonesian cities have been affected.
Yogyakarta: A popular destination for both local and international tourists, Yogyakarta is seeing delays as flights from Jakarta and other areas are canceled or rerouted.
Pakistan Airlines
Islamabad: Major cancellations at Islamabad International Airport have caused delays on flights from Islamabad to multiple destinations across Pakistan.
Gilgit: Due to severe weather, flights to and from Gilgit have been canceled, affecting the northern region of Pakistan, a hotspot for adventure tourism.
Multan: Cancellations on domestic flights out of Multan have disrupted local business and tourism activities, particularly affecting those traveling for events and business purposes.
Affected Routes and Cities
Shenzhen Airlines
Beijing to Shenzhen: Affected by cancellations due to heavy rains and winds disrupting flight schedules.
Shenzhen to Guangzhou: Major disruptions were seen, with flight delays and cancellations impacting travelers between these major cities.
Guangzhou to Beijing: Weather-related cancellations have affected travelers commuting between these two key cities in China.
Batik Air
Jakarta to Yogyakarta: Frequent cancellations have disrupted flights between Jakarta, Indonesia’s capital, and Yogyakarta, a key cultural destination in Java.
Yogyakarta to Jakarta: The return route also faced cancellations, affecting inbound and outbound travel between these key tourism cities.
Pakistan Airlines
Islamabad to Gilgit: Flights between these two popular destinations for adventure tourism were canceled, leading to major inconvenience for tourists heading to the mountainous region.
Islamabad to Multan: Cancellations have impacted business and leisure travel, with numerous flights between Islamabad and Multan being delayed.
Karachi to Multan: This domestic route was also affected, with numerous passengers stranded due to adverse weather conditions.
Passenger Struggles: Navigating the Chaos of Flight Cancellations
For travelers caught in the whirlwind of flight cancellations, the impact has been nothing short of disruptive. Passengers are facing extreme delays, flight cancellations, and missed connections, with many left stranded in airports for hours, if not days. As weather conditions worsen, particularly in high-risk areas like Beijing, Jakarta, and Islamabad, communication from airlines has been sparse, leaving travelers scrambling for information on rebooking options.
Many passengers, whose plans were meticulously arranged months in advance, have found their vacations or business trips shattered by these cancellations. Without clear guidance or timely updates, frustration levels are at an all-time high. Airlines, despite their best efforts to accommodate affected travelers, are facing overwhelming demand, and seats on alternate flights are often unavailable or far out in the future.
What You Can Do: Practical Advice for Affected Passengers
Stay Proactive and Stay Informed: The first step in managing flight disruptions is to stay on top of your flight’s status. Use airline apps, official websites, and flight tracking services to get real-time updates. Don’t wait for airlines to contact you—take the initiative to rebook flights as soon as cancellations are announced.
Explore Flexible Travel Options: For those whose flights are canceled, flexibility can be the key to finding a way out. Consider alternative travel routes, whether by train, bus, or even renting a car. In some cases, nearby airports may have open flights that can get you to your destination.
Secure Accommodation and Keep Calm: If stranded, many airports provide designated rest areas for passengers. Check the airport for any services or lounges offering temporary refuge. If these are unavailable, look into last-minute hotel bookings near the airport or ask the airline for assistance in arranging accommodations. Keep calm and prioritize your well-being as you wait for the next available flight.
Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with passenger rights related to cancellations and delays. Airlines may offer compensation, such as meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, or refunds. It’s essential to know what’s available to you to reduce the financial strain of extended waiting times.
How Local Tourism Is Bearing the Brunt of the Disruption
The ripple effect of flight cancellations doesn’t end with inconvenienced passengers; the tourism industry in affected regions has also felt the heat. Destinations that rely heavily on air travel—such as Yogyakarta, Gilgit, and Guangzhou—are seeing a sharp decline in visitor numbers. These cities, known for their unique cultural experiences and adventure tourism opportunities, are suffering the consequences of these travel disruptions.
Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, are witnessing a dip in foot traffic and bookings. Seasonal travelers, particularly those in search of adventure or cultural enrichment, have been forced to cancel or postpone their plans. While the immediate impact is harsh, it also presents an opportunity for local tourism to adapt and recover.
What Local Businesses Can Do
Promote Alternative Attractions: Destinations affected by cancellations should promote off-the-beaten-path experiences to attract travelers who are still in the area. Diversifying tourism offerings—whether through virtual tours, discounted tickets, or last-minute packages—can keep local businesses afloat during these uncertain times.
Focus on Domestic Tourism: Given the uncertainty of international travel, many local businesses should turn their attention to domestic tourists who may be more inclined to explore nearby destinations. Domestic travelers may be more resilient in the face of cancellations, so providing attractive offers for them can help boost local tourism.
Strengthen Communication with Travelers: Businesses and tourism boards need to offer real-time updates on any operational changes. Clear, concise communication, whether through social media, email, or text alerts, will help alleviate passenger frustration and ensure that visitors are informed of any local changes.
Rebuilding with Resilience: How the Industry Can Bounce Back Stronger
While weather-related disruptions have thrown a wrench in travel plans, this is not the end of the road. The tourism and aviation industries, though temporarily shaken, can recover and come back stronger than ever. By learning from these disruptions, both airlines and local businesses can take proactive steps to minimize the impact of future cancellations and delays.
For Airlines: Streamlining Operations and Communication
Airlines must streamline their contingency plans to ensure passengers can be quickly rebooked on alternative flights. In addition, investing in better communication systems will provide real-time updates and transparency, helping to manage customer expectations during crisis situations. Clearer procedures for providing compensation and handling customer service can also go a long way in restoring trust.
For Local Tourism: Building a Resilient and Flexible Industry
Local tourism must focus on creating flexibility in its offerings. By diversifying tourism products and services—offering flexible booking policies, virtual experiences, or quick-response packages—businesses can remain competitive and retain tourist interest, even in times of uncertainty. Promoting alternative travel options within the region will also ensure that tourism remains dynamic.
Optimizing for the Future
The resilience of the tourism sector lies in its ability to adapt to changing circumstances. From offering enhanced customer service to diversifying the types of experiences available, the future of tourism will depend on how quickly industries can adjust to the evolving travel landscape. As the world adapts to the post-pandemic era and the impacts of climate change on travel, businesses that innovate, communicate well, and remain flexible will thrive.
Travel disruptions may be a short-term setback, but with the right mindset and strategic approach, the tourism industry can turn these challenges into opportunities for growth. With better infrastructure, smarter travel management, and a focus on customer care, both airlines and local tourism businesses can emerge from this crisis stronger and more prepared for future challenges. The key is resilience, adaptability, and a strong focus on enhancing the passenger experience.
Indian tourists are making their mark on Singapore’s retail scene in a big way, with their spending habits defying global trends and driving luxury sales. The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has reported an impressive SGD 812.17 million in spending by Indian tourists in the first half of 2025 alone, marking an increase of 4.40% compared to the same period last year. This surge reflects the growing significance of Indian travelers in Singapore’s economy, especially in the luxury sector, as their purchasing power continues to rise.
In a world where high-end retailers are grappling with a downturn in sales, Singapore stands as an exception, largely due to the strong spending power of tourists from countries like India, China, and Indonesia. The long stays of Indian visitors, averaging 6.3 days, have further fueled their spending across various sectors, including retail, dining, entertainment, and accommodations. For the city-state, these figures highlight a recovery and growth in its retail landscape, with a noticeable upswing in luxury product purchases.
Indian Tourists’ Spending Surge in Singapore
India continues to be one of Singapore’s most lucrative markets. In the first ten months of 2025, over 1.03 million Indian visitors traveled to the island, a 2.6% increase from the previous year. The cumulative number of tourists visiting Singapore in 2025 reached 14.25 million, with Indian visitors contributing significantly to this growth.
Indian travelers are increasingly drawn to Singapore for its luxury shopping experiences. Orchard Road, the city’s prime shopping district, has been a major beneficiary, attracting top global brands like Prada and Van Cleef & Arpels. These luxury retailers have made a concerted effort to bolster their presence, with eye-catching outdoor displays and seasonal offerings designed to appeal to affluent shoppers.
The Luxury Boom: How Indian Tourists Are Changing Singapore’s Retail Landscape
Singapore has long been known for its status as a luxury shopping hub, but recent trends suggest that it’s one of the few major destinations where luxury sales are seeing an upward trajectory in 2025. According to Euromonitor International, luxury spending in Singapore is expected to grow by 7-9%, reaching an estimated SGD 13.9 billion by year-end. This is an impressive growth rate, especially when compared to other shopping destinations in Asia, such as China and Japan, where luxury sales have stagnated.
The spending habits of Indian tourists are a major driving force behind this boom. With a rapidly expanding affluent middle class, Indian travelers are more eager to invest in premium products, from high-end fashion to luxury jewelry. This shift in consumer behavior is reshaping Singapore’s retail environment, which has traditionally been focused on mass-market consumer goods.
Why Are Indian Tourists Opting for Longer Stays?
What sets Indian tourists apart from other international visitors to Singapore is their preference for longer stays. With an average duration of 6.3 days, Indian visitors are staying nearly a day longer than tourists from other nations. This extended stay leads to higher spending across multiple sectors.
Longer stays provide Indian travelers with the opportunity to explore more of what Singapore has to offer. From indulgent shopping experiences in high-end malls to gourmet dining in the city’s world-class restaurants, tourists are making the most of their extended holidays. Moreover, family-friendly attractions and luxury hotels have seen a boost in bookings, providing Indian families with the perfect mix of comfort and leisure.
What Does This Mean for Travelers?
For those considering a visit to Singapore, there are several key takeaways from these trends. Indian tourists have significantly influenced the country’s tourism and retail sectors, which now offer more premium experiences than ever before. Here are some travel tips for anyone planning a visit to Singapore:
Explore Orchard Road: This iconic shopping street is home to luxury brands, seasonal light displays, and top-notch dining options.
Consider Staying Longer: The extended stay of Indian tourists suggests that the longer you stay, the more you’ll be able to enjoy all the high-end experiences Singapore has to offer.
Indulge in Unique Experiences: Singapore’s focus on “quiet luxury” means there are exclusive experiences waiting for those looking for a more private, premium experience—whether it’s in art galleries, private yacht charters, or fine dining.
The Future of Luxury Tourism in Singapore
As Singapore continues to invest in its tourism and retail sectors, the future of luxury tourism looks incredibly bright. The country is positioning itself as the go-to destination for high-end shoppers and travelers, with a range of options from boutique hotels to private tours of Marina Bay Sands and the Gardens by the Bay.
With the growing importance of Indian tourists and the influx of high-net-worth individuals, Singapore is set to remain a key player in the luxury travel market. As more Indian families look for luxurious, family-friendly holidays, Singapore’s tourism boards and businesses will continue to adapt to meet their needs.
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