Heading to the Lion City? Here’s what you need to know about Singapore.

Singapore - where business happens

Singapore is home to 5.6 million people. The population is predominantly from Chinese, Malay and Indian cultures, though business is usually done in English.

Over 1.32 million foreign nationals work in the city, with most ex-pats settling into technology and IT fields to make the most of the high-speed internet and government incentives. Being part of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (11 countries) setting up shop in Singapore usually means business expansion is on the horizon.

Business in Singapore: 101

The range of languages, cultures, and climate make doing business a little different in Singapore. For example, the dress code can be a little more relaxed so that you don’t sweat through your suit every day. Typically, smart business shirts and pants or skirts will suffice. You can leave the blazer at home.

Here are some quick general facts to remember:

• In some offices and almost every private space, ditching your shoes at the door is the local custom.
• Tipping isn’t mandatory but is much appreciated.
• Bring a bottle of wine to social events as a gift, or chocolates if your hosts abstain from alcohol.
• Physical contact between people of the same sex is the norm. Men hold hands and walk with their arms around each other freely.
• Negotiations can be slow. Closing a deal relies more on personal relationships than the company you represent. Finalising a business agreement could take a few trips.

First impressions count

Different cultures within the country can have different ways of greeting, but you don’t need to take part unless that’s your heritage. For example, Malays will greet each other with a handshake and then a palm placed briefly over their own heart. 

While a simple handshake was appropriate pre-COVID-19, nowadays an elbow tap or no contact at all is probably the best way to go. Cleanliness is highly regarded in Singapore, so make sure you don’t touch anybody who doesn’t want to be touched - even if it’s just a handshake.

As with most Asian countries, business cards are key in Singapore. Bring yours to every first meeting, just in case. Offer the card with both hands, with the letters facing the recipient. Receive with two hands and take a moment to view it briefly, then leave it on the table face-up during the meeting. Don’t forget it at the end of the meeting or you could disrespect your new business partners.

When chatting with business contacts, some topics are safe, and some aren’t. Here’s a quick run down of what not to do.

What not to do

• Don’t compliment someone’s appearance. This can come across as insincere. Compliment their achievements instead.
• Don’t be late. It’s an insult to leave a Singaporean business executive waiting.
• Don’t publicly disagree. Avoid correcting or debating with an elder or superior. They’ll lose face, and you’ll lose respect.
• Don’t raise your voice or appear overly emotional. Dramatics aren’t appropriate in Singapore. Stay calm and composed.
• Don’t introduce people in the wrong order. Introduce the most important members of your group first, whether that’s by age or seniority.
• Don’t respond too quickly. Taking time to think is a good thing in Singapore. Mentally count to 10 before responding to show you’ve put thought into your response.
• Don’t touch someone’s head. The head is considered sacred by some Indians and Malays, so avoid the head or face.

Best. Airport. Ever.

Singapore is home to the airport to end all airports. Changi Airport is frequently named the Best Airport globally, and it won’t take you long to figure out why. With four terminals spread across 13 square kilometres of land (and a fifth terminal under construction), the sheer size of the Changi Airport is epic.

A flight either arrives or departs Changi Airport every 80 seconds. That’s roughly 7,200 flights making their way through the airport each week. If you’re connecting to a different flight through Changi, there is a free Skytrain that connects Terminals 1, 2, and 3, and a free Shuttle Bus that connects Terminals 2 and 4.

Luxury hotels in every skyscraper. Suite!

Singapore’s stunning skyscrapers are home to plenty of hotels and accommodation. Corporate Traveler works with over 100 accommodation providers within Singapore with great negotiated rates and add-ons. Here are three of our top picks:

Conrad Centennial Singapore by Hilton

Looking for luxury? The Conrad Centennial Singapore by Hilton is a stunning hotel minutes away from Marina Bay. Experience easy access to the city’s top attractions and on-site restaurants and lounges. If you have a client to impress, bring them here. With a beautiful contemporary design that exudes class, it’s an all-around winner for executive business trips.

Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy

If you’re after a place to entertain, then the Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy is a must. Only 15 minutes from Changi Airport and Marina Bay Cruise Centre, it’s located in historical Katong, a heritage suburb east of the city. A short walk from East Coast Park, this hotel is central to everything business travelers need. Host meetings and events in their impressive function rooms for a dash of ‘wow’.

Ibis Singapore on Bencoolen Hotel

Book a room at Ibis Singapore on Bencoolen Hotel for great amenities at an affordable price. Located a few minutes from Marina Bay, there are plenty of key destinations and entertainment precincts at your fingertips.

Where to go when you clock off.

Have some spare time up your sleeve? Ditch the briefcase and make the most of Singapore’s most popular experiences.

Gardens by the Bay

One of Singapore’s most iconic attractions is Gardens by the Bay. The famous supertree structures that are illuminated at night are a must-see for travelers. This huge colourful and futuristic park is great for both kids and adults, with free access to most of the park or full access for a fee.

Chinatown

If heritage and history are more your thing, head to Singapore’s Chinatown for a beautiful blend of culture and food. With historic temples and traditional medicinal halls sitting amongst new bars and restaurants, it’s a place where old meets new.

Singapore Night Safari

Love animals? Wildlife Reserves Singapore runs the Night Safari, the world’s first safari park for nocturnal animals. Go on a safari with a guide, join feeding sessions, or get up close to the animals on a walking trail. Don’t miss the popular Leopard Trail, featuring the largest collection of wildlife indigenous to Southeast Asia.