A trade centre since the 19th century, the district is home to the island's Arabic community. Traditional products and delicious food are available, and there are a number of prominent sites central to the areas heritage, including the Sultan Mosque.Stroll through the market area and enjoy the ambience among the busy vendors and customers – maybe even pick up some souvenirs! There is a wide choice of carpets, decorous clothing, lamps, perfume (alcohol-free, due to Muslim beliefs) and much more.The enormous and visually imposing Sultan Mosque is very popular – it can hold 5,000 people when full and is the centre of Islamic worship in the city. Istana Kampong Glam, a former Malay palace, offers an insight into the lives of the historical elite of that community here.In the evening time, the Arab Street District is a very popular choice with food lovers. Savour delectable Middle Eastern cuisine, from Lebanese to Moroccan to Turkish. As with most places in the city, Malay and Indian food is also available. And as you go for an after-dinner stroll, keep an eye – and a nose – out for men smoking aromatic, flavoured tobacco from hooka pipes on the street.Haji Lane sits parallel to Arab Street, but in many other respects, it is a world away. This chic street is lined with sophisticated bars filled with the cosmopolitan and stylish in-crowd.The Arab Street District is close to the city centre, and easily reachable on foot from there. Otherwise, you can take the East-West MRT line or the bus, and there is also a limited amount of on-street parking available.
Arab Street District
Where to stay in Arab Street District
Kampong Glam
Sultan Mosque and Haji Lane are top sights in Kampong Glam, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Bugis Station or Lavender Station to see more sights in the area.
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Things to do
Singapore: Private Welcome City Tour
- Bugis Street Shopping District
- Haji Lane
- Old Malay Cemetery
- Universal Studios Singapore
- Marina Bay Sands Casino
- Orchard Road
- Singapore Zoo
- Marina Bay Sands Skypark
- Gardens by the Bay
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