If current trends continue, Indian tourists are likely to remain a vital driver of Singapore’s tourism receipts and luxury retail performance in the years ahead
Indian tourists are emerging as one of the most influential visitor segments in Singapore, particularly when it comes to high-value spending. Fresh data from the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) shows that travellers from India spent SGD 812.17 million in the first half of 2025, marking a 4.4 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. This steady growth comes at a time when luxury spending has softened in several major global markets, highlighting the resilience of Singapore’s tourism-led retail economy.
Industry representatives say Indian visitors are playing a key role in sustaining demand for premium goods, especially in iconic shopping districts such as Orchard Road. According to the Orchard Road Business Association (ORBA), Indian travellers are among the top contributors to luxury retail sales, helping high-end brands and malls counter a broader global slowdown in discretionary spending. Alongside tourists from China and Indonesia, Indian visitors are keeping foot traffic and sales buoyant across Singapore’s prime retail zones.
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One factor driving this trend is the longer average stay of Indian tourists
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With an average trip length of about 6.3 days, Indian travellers typically spend more across multiple categories, including shopping, dining, entertainment, attractions and accommodation
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Industry experts note that longer stays naturally translate into higher discretionary spending, particularly on luxury fashion, jewellery and premium lifestyle experiences
The impact of this spending has been especially visible during Singapore’s year-end festive season. ORBA reported increased visitor numbers at Orchard Road’s Christmas Market and Christmas Village, where Indian tourists featured prominently among international shoppers and diners. These seasonal events have become important touchpoints for retailers looking to attract high-spending travellers seeking both experiences and exclusive products.
Broader economic trends also support this shift. The Mastercard Economics Institute’s 2024 Travel Trends report highlighted the rapid expansion of India’s affluent and upper-middle-class population. Rising disposable incomes, greater global exposure and aspirational lifestyles are encouraging Indian consumers to seek luxury experiences abroad, including high-end shopping and premium travel offerings.
For Singapore, this growing appetite aligns well with its positioning as a safe, well-connected and luxury-friendly destination. As international travel continues to normalise, tourism authorities and retailers are expected to further tailor experiences and offerings to Indian visitors.
