DestinationsRelaxed hospitality development rules could see the city centre becoming even more vibrant.

Singapore lifts bans for new hotels in heritage precincts

Jun 08, 2026

Night-time view of Boat Quay, along the iconic Singapore River. Photo Credit: Singapore Tourism Board

Singapore’s iconic skyline could get more vibrant and animated light-ups at night, as authorities look to ease the restrictions on new hotels, backpacker’s hostels and serviced apartments at two heritage precincts at Boat Quay and Beach Road, which are known for their historic shophouses and mixed-use developments.

The move is aimed at giving developers and business owners with greater flexibility to provide more diverse offerings to visitors with “Singapore River right at their doorstep,” said minister for National Development, Chee Hong Tat.

Under existing planning rules, new hotels, serviced apartments and hostels are generally not permitted in heritage precincts such as the Singapore River “to avoid an over-proliferation of such uses which may alter the character of these areas", according to Singapore’s Urban Redevelopment Authority.

Speaking at the 5 June opening ceremony of i Light Singapore, an iconic event along the Marina Bay district, Chee noted that the move was “in response to industry feedback, and to provide developers and business owners with greater flexibility to provide more diverse offerings to visitors”.

Chee added that the government remains open to refining regulations and processes to help businesses and community partners respond to changing visitor expectations while strengthening the attractiveness of their neighbourhoods.

Discussions are also underway to pilot regulatory sandboxes that allow businesses and community partners greater flexibility to introduce unique events, activities and uses that reflect the distinct character and needs of their respective areas.

Injecting life after dark

Building on the success of events such as i Light Singapore, the city-state is considering more experiential lighting installations and greater flexibility for creative proposals that enhance the evening visitor experience.

Chee pointed to cities such as Sydney, Seoul and London, which have adopted more flexible approaches to support arts, culture and recreational activities after dark.

These initiatives will complement a pipeline of new attractions planned for Marina Bay, including sports and recreation facilities, expanded arts offerings and additional green spaces.

A string of other entertainment, arts, retail and hospitality concepts were also announced at Singapore Tourism Board’s (STB) annual Tourism Industry Conference 2026 in May – all designed to drive footfall and inject new vibrancy into the district.