The announcement by Minister of State for Trade and Industry Alvin Tan outlines plans to develop and market new products, rejuvenate existing offerings, and support local businesses in creating new intellectual properties.
The fund has already contributed to attractions like Trifecta in October 2023 and the year-round exclusive home-porting of Disney Cruise Line’s latest cruise ship, Disney Adventure, in Singapore starting from 2025. On the other hand, the fund also goes towards workforce development, innovation, sustainability and collaboration with the tourism sector, the initiative aims to create a pipeline of high-quality, and unique experiences to maintain Singapore's international appeal.
The latest launched projects include Sensoryscape, a thoroughfare connecting Resorts World Sentosa and Sentosa's beaches, featuring multisensorial gardens and digital light art displays. Resorts World Sentosa will introduce the Singapore Oceanarium in 2025, as an extension of the S.E.A. Aquarium with also three times the size. The drive to boost tourism aligns with the ongoing recovery of international visitor arrivals. In 2023, Singapore recorded 13.6 million visitors, reaching 71% of 2019 levels. With expectations of 15-16 million visitors in 2024, the tourism sector anticipates contributing $26-27.5 billion in receipts.
The latest in Singapore's tourism scene is getting some thrilling updates at top attractions. While Resort World Sentosa is redefining its entertainment landscapes including Universal Studios's Minion Land and the refurbishment of Resorts World Convention Centre and other hotels. River Wonders also celebrates a decade of dedication, offering visitors a tapestry of special activities, including wildlife exploration, interactive section, and exclusive overnight camping experiences:
Universal Studios is currently undergoing the construction of Minion Land, set to open in 2024. The anticipated features the world's first-ever Minion ride exclusive to the Singapore Universal Studios, named "Despicable Me Minion Mayhem", meet-and-greets with beloved characters such as Bob and Kevin, themed restaurants and shops as well as a myriad of other mischief and madness adventures. Notably, the theme park will be powered by renewable energy and incorporate smart energy systems. This exciting addition is part of a broader $4.5 billion expansion of Resorts World Sentosa.
PHOTO: Universal Studios Singapore
The other parts of Resorts World Sentosa is undergoing other significant renovations, including the refurbishment of the Resorts World Convention Centre and three hotels, "Hard Rock Hotel Singapore", "Hotel Michael", and "Festive Hotel". These renovations are being carried out in phases and are scheduled to be completed by late 2024.
River Wonders celebrates its 10th anniversary with special activities from 28 February to 14 April 2024. Visitors can engage in wildlife exploration with the 'River Wonders Explorer Bingo Sheet', earns a commemorative pin after completing each row. The friendly keepers will also accompany with visitor in "Mekong Giant Catfish" and "Wild Amazonia Trail Keeper Talks". The Ranger Buddies Quest, which designed for kids, will let them conquer outposts with smart binoculars and a companion app. For camping enthusiasts, an exclusive overnight experience will include guided Amazon Flooded Forest tours, arapaima feeding, a buffet at Night Safari, and storytelling under the night sky.
