Arab Street: A Guide to Textiles and Heritage | Singapore Purple Travel Guide

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Arab Street is the artistic and soulful centerpiece of the Kampong Gelam district. Known for its eclectic mix of traditional heritage and trendy modernity, this street is a destination where the old-world charm of textile merchants and perfumers meets the contemporary energy of boutique cafes and street art. It serves as a vibrant gateway to Singapore’s Malay-Muslim heritage and is widely considered one of the most picturesque streets in the city.

Here at Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides, we promote self-guided walking tours.
But we realize that not everybody likes to walk by themselves in a foreign city. So, just in case that you rather go with ab guide: NO PROBLEM! Please see the GuruWalk and Viator tours below.

Why You Should Visit

This street is a paradise for those who love to discover local craftsmanship and unique aesthetics. It is the best place in Singapore to find premium quality fabrics, intricate handmade carpets, and customized perfumes. Beyond shopping, the atmosphere is deeply evocative, offering a distinct cultural experience that is both sophisticated and grounded in tradition.

What is Special About It?

• The Textile Haven: The street is legendary for its textile shops, where you can find everything from exquisite silk and lace to traditional batik prints from across Southeast Asia.
• Non-Alcoholic Perfumeries: Arab Street is home to several famous ‘attar’ (concentrated perfume oil) shops where experts can blend a custom fragrance for you using traditional methods.
• Cane and Rattan Ware: You can still find shops selling traditional woven baskets and furniture, reflecting the artisanal skills that have been passed down through generations.
• Gateway to Heritage: The street leads directly toward the golden domes of the Sultan Mosque, providing a stunning visual perspective that merges commerce with faith.

History and Facts

• A Trading Legacy: Since the early 19th century, this area has been a hub for the Arab and Muslim trading communities who dealt in items like precious stones, spices, and textiles.
• Namesake Origins: The street was officially named ‘Arab Street’ in the 1820s during the early colonial planning of the city, reflecting the ethnic enclave designated for the Arab community.
• Economic Shift: While it remains a textile center, recent years have seen the arrival of modern fashion labels and artisanal bakeries, turning it into a ‘hipster’ favorite without losing its historical soul.
• Architectural Beauty: The shophouses here are notable for their narrow ‘five-foot-ways’ and beautifully restored facades that date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Self-Guided Information

Traveler Tip

If you are looking for a unique souvenir, visit one of the traditional perfumeries like Sifr Aromatics or Jamal Kazura Aromatics. You can ask the staff to help you find a scent that matches your personality or even recreate a favorite fragrance into a long-lasting oil. Also, do not forget to look up at the intricate window shutters of the shophouses—many feature carvings and colors that are unique to this specific street.

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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel

Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.

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