Singapore is planning two major infrastructure projects near Marina South to strengthen its position as a global hub. An integrated cruise and ferry terminal and a new exhibition hub are currently envisioned for development in the 2030s.
Speaking at the Tourism Industry Conference 2026, Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations Grace Fu stated that the government is assessing the feasibility of placing the cruise and ferry terminal next to the existing Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore. This move is part of the broader development of the Greater Southern Waterfront.
Expanding Maritime Capacity
The proposed terminal could support up to 10 ferry berths and three cruise berths. It is slated for construction in Straits View, a largely undeveloped 110-hectare area that includes the Marina South Pier and the existing cruise centre.
According to Minister Fu, the new facility will have a combined capacity that is twice that of the existing HarbourFront Passenger Terminal and 1.5 times that of the Marina Bay terminal’s 11,700 passengers. She noted that this “represents not only a significant increase in international cruise capacity, but also greater regional connectivity.”
The project will involve land reclamation as part of a wider plan to add approximately 213 hectares of land to Singapore’s southern coastline, a project revealed on April 8 by the Housing Board.
A New Downtown MICE Cluster
Authorities have also identified an area near the Marina Bay MRT station for a MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) hub. This integrated development is envisioned to offer accommodation, dining, retail, entertainment, attractions, and MICE facilities.
The hub is intended to complement existing venues such as Marina Bay Sands, Suntec City, and Raffles City. Minister Fu explained that placing these venues within 3km of one another could create “a vibrant MICE cluster that blends work and play.”
Delegates at the new hub may have access to nearby leisure offerings, including a redeveloped section of Gardens by the Bay and the upcoming Therme Singapore wellness facility. The hub could allow the city to host larger events downtown and run complementary events concurrently at other city-centre venues.
Economic Drivers and Future Timeline
Singapore Tourism Board (STB) chief executive Melissa Ow reported that MICE tourism receipts grew by more than 35 per cent from 2024, reaching $2.3 billion in 2025. In 2024, the sector received about 1.1 million visitors who generated $1.7 billion in receipts.
To support this growth, the STB intends to launch a request for proposal in 2027 to appoint a MICE operator and master developer for the downtown hub. A networking session for developers and MICE players is scheduled for May 15.
In the shorter term, the terminal at HarbourFront will be relocated to a new, purpose-built facility called the Singapore Cruise Centre (HarbourFront). This new facility, featuring an automated baggage-handling system and a dedicated VIP lounge, is set to open on July 15.
Strategic Partnerships
The government is also pursuing industry tie-ups to enhance competitiveness. This includes a two-year partnership with the Academy of Medicine Singapore to host professional development conferences for the medical community.
22 hotels—representing a quarter of the country’s hotel room stock—have launched the Singapore Hotels Incentives for Business Events initiative to offer attractive accommodation packages to meeting organisers.
What May Happen Next
Following the May 15 networking session, the government may further refine the requirements for the 2027 request for proposal. The successful master developer could be required to partner with established MICE players to ensure the hub’s operational viability.
As land reclamation progresses along the southern coastline, the government may announce further specific milestones for the 2030s completion of the Straits View projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where will the new cruise and ferry terminal be located?
It is planned for Straits View, a largely undeveloped area of about 110 hectares near Marina South, and may be located next to the existing Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore.
How will the new terminal’s capacity compare to existing facilities?
The new terminal is expected to have a combined capacity that is 1.5 times that of the Marina Bay terminal and twice that of the HarbourFront Passenger Terminal.
When will the Singapore Tourism Board seek a developer for the MICE hub?
The board intends to launch a request for proposal in 2027 to appoint a master developer and MICE operator.
Do you think the integration of business hubs and luxury leisure facilities will make Singapore more competitive for global events?
