Arab Street & Haji Lane Kampong Glam Singapore
A vibrant cultural enclave in Singapore, known for its colorful street art, independent boutiques, and lively atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch shops before closing
Arab Street & Haji Lane Kampong Glam Singapore
Best Time
Catch shops before closing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant cultural enclave in Singapore, known for its colorful street art, independent boutiques, and lively atmosphere.
"Haji Lane was definitely a vibe — colorful, energetic, and full of life!"
📸 Capture the Art
Wander and discover the vibrant murals; they're everywhere! Great for unique photos.
🛍️ Shop Small & Unique
Explore independent boutiques for handmade jewelry, keychains, and vintage finds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Street Art
Throughout Haji Lane and Arab Street
Discover a kaleidoscope of colorful murals and graffiti art adorning the walls, perfect for unique photos.
Boutique Shopping
Haji Lane
Explore independent boutiques offering vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, and unique trinkets.
Arab Street Bazaar
Arab Street
Immerse yourself in Middle Eastern culture with shops selling textiles, carpets, and perfumes.
Themed Photo Booths
Various locations on Haji Lane
Capture fun memories at unique, retro-themed photo booths scattered throughout the lane.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Vibe
Embrace the Wanderlust
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Art
Wander and discover the vibrant murals; they're everywhere! Great for unique photos.
🛍️ Shop Small & Unique
Explore independent boutiques for handmade jewelry, keychains, and vintage finds.
☕ Try Local Drinks
Don't miss Teh Tarik and Masala tea from Sarabat stalls, especially at night.
📸 Fun Photo Booths
Strike a pose at the themed photo booths for a fun, retro experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Art
Wander and discover the vibrant murals; they're everywhere! Great for unique photos.
🛍️ Shop Small & Unique
Explore independent boutiques for handmade jewelry, keychains, and vintage finds.
☕ Try Local Drinks
Don't miss Teh Tarik and Masala tea from Sarabat stalls, especially at night.
📸 Fun Photo Booths
Strike a pose at the themed photo booths for a fun, retro experience.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the colorful streets and shops.
⏰ Check Store Hours
Many shops close by early evening; check hours if you want to browse.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the vibrant, colorful atmosphere of Haji Lane and Arab Street, praising the unique street art, independent boutiques, and lively nightlife. The area is a visual feast, offering a blend of cultural heritage and contemporary creativity. However, some find it can get very crowded, especially in the evenings, and prices in some shops can be high.
"We arrived here pretty early and most if the stores were closed. We just enjoyed the painted walls on the way to the mosque."
Andreea Daniela Dinulescu
"Haji Lane was definitely a vibe — colorful, energetic, and full of life! I went at night, and it was super crowded, which made it a bit hard to enjoy fully. Great for nightlife and photos."
Aashika Dhakal
"An awesome precinct teeming with the Kampong Gelam heritage by day, textile, pop up, art, specialty shops, boutiques, cafes & lots more F&B restaurants day & night. And if you love wall murals, there are plenty - just look out for them in the precinct. The Sarabat stalls that offer Masala tea, Teh Halia, Teh Tarik opens till late along Baghdad street-must try (ask for less sugar if you’d like your beverage less sweet)."
Jessie Ching
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is by taxi or ride-sharing service, taking about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, take the MRT (East-West Line) to Tanah Merah, then transfer to the Downtown Line towards Bugis station. From Bugis, it's a short walk or a quick bus ride to Kampong Glam.
These streets are adjacent and best explored on foot. They are easily walkable from each other, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere of both areas.
Parking can be challenging in this popular area. There are several multi-storey car parks nearby, such as the Sultan Gate Car Park or the Bugis Street Car Park. However, public transport is often recommended.
Yes, absolutely! The nearest MRT station is Bugis (East-West Line and Downtown Line). From Bugis, it's a pleasant 10-15 minute walk through the Kampong Glam heritage district. Buses also serve the area frequently.
The closest MRT station is Bugis, which is a major interchange. From Bugis, you can easily walk to both Haji Lane and Arab Street.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Haji Lane and Arab Street is free. You can wander through the streets and admire the architecture and street art without any admission fee.
The streets themselves are always accessible, but individual shops and cafes have varying opening hours. Most shops open around 11 AM and close by 7-8 PM. Some cafes and restaurants stay open later for nightlife.
The street art and murals are part of the public spaces and are free to view and photograph. It's a dynamic outdoor gallery!
Most boutiques and shops on Haji Lane tend to close around 7 PM or 8 PM. It's advisable to visit earlier in the day if you plan to do a lot of shopping.
Yes, the Grand Sultan Mosque is a prominent landmark in the area and is open to visitors outside of prayer times. Modest dress is required.
📸 📸 Photography
Haji Lane is a photographer's dream! Look for the vibrant murals, colorful shopfronts, and unique street art. The entire lane is a canvas.
Yes, several businesses offer themed photo booths. Look out for places like PickyPic SG, Photomanner, and others that provide fun, retro backdrops for memorable photos.
Arab Street is great for capturing cultural elements, intricate textiles, and the bustling market atmosphere. The blend of heritage and modern life offers diverse photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! The street art is a major draw, and visitors are encouraged to take photos. Just be mindful of other visitors and the businesses in the area.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, while evenings provide a vibrant, energetic atmosphere for photos. However, it can be crowded at night.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Don't miss trying Teh Tarik, Masala tea, and Teh Halia from the Sarabat stalls along Baghdad Street, especially at night. Many cafes and restaurants offer diverse cuisines.
Yes, Haji Lane and its surrounding streets are dotted with charming cafes. Cafe Margaret is a popular Korean cafe, and you'll find many other spots offering coffee and pastries.
Arab Street and the wider Kampong Glam area offer a range of dining options, from traditional Middle Eastern cuisine to modern cafes and fusion restaurants.
Yes, Kampong Glam is a Muslim-majority area, so you'll find numerous Halal-certified restaurants and eateries throughout Haji Lane and Arab Street.
Yes, some cafes and restaurants, particularly along Baghdad Street, offer late-night dining and drinks, making it a lively spot after dark.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekday mornings or early afternoons when it's less crowded. This allows kids to explore the colorful streets and unique shops at their own pace. The availability of cafes offering snacks and drinks also makes it easier to manage a family outing. Some visitors have noted the presence of dog and cat cafes, which could be an added attraction for animal-loving families.
🛍️ Budget Travelers
For affordable eats, seek out the Sarabat stalls for local drinks like Teh Tarik, which are budget-friendly and authentic. Also, keep an eye out for pop-up stalls that sometimes offer unique items at lower price points. Visiting during off-peak hours might also lead to discovering less crowded shops with potentially better deals.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the art, the boutique storefronts on Haji Lane and the textile shops on Arab Street offer rich textures and vibrant colors. The themed photo booths are a fun addition for creative shots. For the best light, consider visiting during the golden hour in the late afternoon or embracing the energetic, albeit crowded, atmosphere at night.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vibrant Streets of Kampong Glam
Just a stone's throw away, Arab Street offers a different, yet equally captivating, experience. Historically a hub for traders from the Middle East, it still retains its charm with shops selling textiles, carpets, perfumes, and traditional crafts. The air here is filled with the scent of spices and the chatter of diverse languages, creating an immersive cultural experience. Together, these streets form a dynamic precinct that is a must-visit for anyone exploring Singapore's rich heritage and contemporary creative scene.
Many visitors highlight the transformative vibe of the area, noting how it shifts from a daytime shopping destination to a lively evening spot. While some find it crowded at night, others embrace the energy for its nightlife and photo opportunities. The presence of themed photo booths adds another layer of fun, making it a popular spot for dates and group outings.
Shopping for Unique Finds
Arab Street, on the other hand, caters to a different kind of shopper. Here, you can explore shops overflowing with Middle Eastern textiles, intricate carpets, aromatic perfumes, and traditional crafts. It's the perfect place to find unique souvenirs or to simply admire the rich cultural heritage on display. Redditors often mention the joy of discovering hidden gems and the satisfaction of supporting small businesses in this area.
While the shopping experience is generally positive, some visitors note that prices can be on the higher side, reflecting the unique nature of the goods and the prime location. However, the consensus is that the experience of browsing through these eclectic shops and finding something truly one-of-a-kind is well worth it.
Experiencing the Nightlife and Cafes
For those looking for a refreshing break, the Sarabat stalls along Baghdad Street are a must-visit. They serve traditional drinks like Masala tea, Teh Halia, and the ever-popular Teh Tarik, often with options to adjust sweetness levels. Several cafes, such as the Korean-inspired Cafe Margaret, offer aesthetic settings and delicious treats, making them perfect for a relaxed evening or a coffee break.
While the nighttime energy is a major draw, some visitors note that the streets can become quite crowded, which might make it challenging to fully enjoy the experience if you prefer a quieter setting. However, for those who enjoy a buzzing atmosphere, the combination of colorful streets, good food, and lively music makes for a memorable night out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit