Arab Street and Haji Lane: Singapore’s Bohemian Hub

Take in the ambiance and visit Singapore’s magnificent Sultan Mosque, the center of Muslim life in the city-state. Arab Street and the adjacent region of Kampong Glam have had a distinctly Arabic flavor ever since the district was handed to a Muslim monarch in 1819. Despite being the smallest ethnic enclave in Singapore, there is still a lot to see. The shops on Arab Street are very popular during the day as shopkeepers bargain over carpets, trinkets, Muslim clothing, and complex textiles.

It’s a good idea to pause at one of the Middle Eastern restaurants that line the street for a cup of potent, energizing mint tea. The area’s main draw is the Sultan Mosque, Singapore’s biggest mosque. The mosque, which is still in use, dominates the skyline with its golden domes and minarets. It was built in the 19th century by an Irishman named Denis Santry.

Visitors are welcome in the main hall, which can accommodate up to 5,000 people at once, save from when Friday prayers are being held. If you plan to enter, please dress modestly. Istana Kampong Glam, a former Malay royal home that is now a Malay cultural center that embraces history, culture, and the arts, is one of the fascinating historical places to visit in Singapore.

Architecture

The architecture of the palace, which was constructed in 1840, combines Palladian style with Malay themes. When night falls, lovers of Middle Eastern cuisine flock to Arab Street. Try some authentic Arabic cuisine while you observe individuals smoking flavored tobacco from shishas by the side of the road. There are restaurants serving food from Morocco, Lebanon, Iran, and Turkey.

Haji Lane lies directly parallel to Arab Street and offers a more contemporary option. This street stands in dramatic contrast to its neighbor and is a popular local hangout because of its hip nightlife, stylish shops, and excellent people-watching opportunities. The Arab Street neighborhood is close to the city’s center. Buses run nearby, and Bugis is the closest MRT station.

As Siloso Beach is Singapore’s hippie beach, Arab Street is one of the city’s hippie streets. It has elegant boutiques and charming cafes. There are entertaining activities available nearby as well. Learn all the things you can do in Singapore close to Arab Street here.

Visit the local street market

If your travel budget is limited, you cannot avoid shopping in Singapore. Therefore, the best course of action is to browse the neighborhood street markets and get the greatest goods for incredibly low costs. Your best option for saving money while delighting in shopping in Singapore is to shop on a budget.

To find the best items at the best prices, explore the Chinatown Street Market, Bugis Market, So Galem Market, and Little India Arcade. You may find everything in these Singaporean local markets, including fashionable clothing, handbags, accessories, footwear, and one-of-a-kind gifts.

Enjoy the unique food taste

Singapore’s Bugis Street Market is a heaven for foodies and offers a wide variety of delectable, reasonably priced foods. With Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, Indonesian, and other Asian delicacies, the options are unlimited. Some of these mouth-watering treats include crepes, pancakes, chicken chops, noodle soup, Hakka yam cake, and Kaya balls.

Thai Ice Milk Tea and Thai Ice Lemon Grass are must-tries after a long and exhausting day of shopping since they will provide you with much-needed refreshments. One of the highlights of Singapore tours will undoubtedly be your meal at one of the street food stalls in Bugis.

Explore Kampong Glam

It is a Malay area with some significant landmarks tucked away in its enclave that draws lots of tourists and guests. Admire the unique architecture of the structures that stand out from Singapore’s other structures. Small markets with handicrafts, Turkish and Arabic goods, restaurants, and cafes are available.

Haji Lane

Haji Lane, located in the center of Kampong Glam, is one of Singapore’s narrowest streets and a stylish passageway lined with vibrant independent boutiques, cafes, and quirky shops. The young demographic that frequents Haji Lane to shop at Singapore’s hip stores or just hang out with pals is drawn to the bohemian street’s yoga studios, tattoo parlors, and classic Egyptian restaurants. Another huge draw for indie-minded consumers trying to purchase trendy and reasonably priced items is the colorful graffiti splattered all over Haji Lane.

The tight-knit neighborhood of Haji Lane is notably dissimilar from its contemporary neighbors, Bugis Street or the sluggish Arab Street. Millions of people stroll along the charming street every day, even if it’s simply for the lively atmosphere, thanks to the lane’s historic rustic design blended with the current edgy hipster look and glimpses of Peranakan architecture. Haji Lane is one of the most explore places to visit in Singapore for all photographers because of the distinctive shops there and the vibrant ambiance that is further enhanced by the graffiti on the alley’s walls.

Good luck Beerhouse

Consider the Good Luck Beerhouse if you’re seeking a new hangout place. This place combines the functions of an izakaya, dim sum restaurant, taproom, and martini dive. Speak eclectic. There is something for everyone, whether you enjoy artisan beer, a classic cocktail, or even sake. Order some food to go with your drinks, don’t forget. For the ideal evening, order carrot cake, steamed dumplings, or crispy shrimp pasta karaage.

Beer and Friends

Let us let you in on a little secret: There is a candy store down the lane that we adore. High-quality fruit gummies are imported by Bears & Friends from Germany. They are not just vegetarian and vegan but also lactose- and gluten-free. So scoop away for these (mostly) guilt-free goodies with a cup in hand. We adore getting sour peach hearts and fruit juice bars as snacks.

Drunken Balloon

With orange and red balloon sculptures suspended over a striking blue window, this shop at the end of Haji Lane is difficult to miss (and ignore). From the outside, Drunken Balloon appears to be the perfect party shop, yet inside, it has a very different atmosphere. The store is overflowing with kooky novelty goods, board games, party games (the Harry Potter edition of Cards of Humanity caught our eye), and plenty of nostalgic memorabilia for you to take home. Do you require party supplies and entertainment? Your destination is obvious.

Crafune

At Crafune, you may make your own wallets, passport covers, key chains, money clips, and cardholders. This independent store, which is tucked away on the second floor, employs premium vegetable-tanned leathers in a range of colors that will age nicely over time. Visit a wallet-making workshop to design your own custom piece, or buy something already made.

The Nail Artelier

Here, the art takes center stage. In contrast to other manicure salons, there are no set designs, so nail technicians work to make your customized design a reality. Do make reservations in advance because this location is frequently crowded with energetic young people, a further indication of how well-liked its stunning nail art is.