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A legendary name in Singapore’s Korean culinary scene is preparing to scale new heights. On March 15, 2026, the team behind the long-running Seoul Restaurant will unveil its sister concept, Seoul & So, a sophisticated modern steakhouse located on the fifth floor of the National Gallery Singapore. This move transitions the brand from its famous buffet roots into a refined, à la carte dining experience set against the backdrop of the city’s most historic architecture.

A Legacy of Quality

For nearly three decades, Seoul Restaurant has been a cornerstone of local K-BBQ culture. Founded as a family business in 1997 at the Amara Hotel food court, it later found its rhythm at the Conrad Singapore Orchard (formerly the Regent Hotel). Its reputation for high-quality meats garnered international praise, most recently earning official recognition from the South Korean Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs as one of the city’s standout Korean dining destinations.

Now, the second generation of the Rhee family is taking the reins. While the original branch remains a go-to for indulgent value-for-money buffets, the siblings are steering Seoul & So toward a more curated, elevated approach to the Korean chophouse.

What to Expect at Seoul & So

Moving away from the all-you-can-eat model, Seoul & So will focus on premium tasting sets and sharing plates. The menu is a globe-trotting selection of elite proteins, featuring:

• Japanese and Australian Wagyu: Known for intense marbling and buttery texture.
• Hanwoo and Handon: Rare, recently approved Korean beef and pork imports for an authentic taste of Seoul.
• Iberico Pork and USDA Prime Beef: Gold-standard cuts for the discerning carnivore.

The dining mechanics have also been reimagined for the Gallery’s sophisticated atmosphere. To ensure guests can enjoy their conversations without the intrusive heat or smoke of a tabletop grill, the restaurant will utilize dedicated grilling stations positioned near each table. This allows diners to witness the culinary technique of the chefs while maintaining a seamless, smoke-free social environment.

A Refreshing Addition to the Arts District

The opening of Seoul & So is a key pillar of the National Gallery’s ongoing culinary transformation. The museum has recently aggressively expanded its F&B portfolio, welcoming diverse concepts like Gilmore & Damian D’Silva to bolster its status as a lifestyle hub as much as an art institution.

For those looking to sample the new menu without the evening price tag, the restaurant is launching with a highly accessible weekday set lunch starting at $35. While dinner rates and specific operating hours are still under wraps, the combination of heritage expertise and a prime heritage location suggests this will be one of the year’s most anticipated openings.

Seoul & So
Location: 1 St Andrew’s Rd, National Gallery Singapore, Level 5, Singapore 178957.
Opening Date: March 15, 2026.

Caffeine enthusiasts have a new reason to head to the heartlands as the Weekend Brew Club launches its inaugural event at Keat Hong Shopping Centre on March 7 and 8. Blending high-energy community vibes with a love for the bean, this two-day festival introduces Singapore’s first-ever free-flow coffee buffet, offering a mix of traditional Nanyang brews and modern Western-style pours. Organized as a lifestyle activation, the event aims to transform the typical “grab-and-go” coffee run into an immersive experience featuring retro nostalgia, interactive games, and live music.

How to Access the All-You-Can-Drink Buffet

Entry to the heart of the festival is tied to supporting the local business ecosystem. To secure a ticket, visitors need to spend a minimum of $5 at any of the 17 participating merchants within Keat Hong Shopping Centre. Once a ticket is redeemed, guests receive an exclusive Weekend Brew Club mug, which serves as their official pass to the free-flow coffee stations.

To encourage sustainability and keep the caffeine flowing, the organizers have installed public rinsing stations. Attendees are encouraged to rinse their mugs and return for refills as often as they like throughout the day, while stocks last.

Beyond the Brew: Zones and Activities

The festival is strategically divided into four distinct zones, ensuring that the experience appeals to more than just the “coffee purists.”

• Weekend Brew Games: For those with a competitive streak, this zone features high-stakes fun including Espresso Pong, darts, and Nintendo Switch challenges. Top performers can walk away with vouchers redeemable at the mall’s merchant outlets.
• Weekend Brew Clinics: These coffee-themed workshops offer a hands-on experience for adults and children alike. Participants can get creative and craft their own unique coffee-inspired souvenirs to take home.
• Weekend DJ Counters: Setting the mood is a lineup of seven DJs spinning a curated mix of 2000s hits and Mandopop favorites, ensuring the energy remains high from morning to evening.
• The Digital Photobooth: Guests can document their experience at the dedicated photo station, which features limited-edition event frames designed for social media.

A Community-Centric Lifestyle Event

The Weekend Brew Club represents a shift in how neighborhood shopping centers engage with residents. By combining retail incentives with experiential entertainment, the event fosters community spirit while supporting local vendors. While walk-in visitors can browse the area and soak in the atmosphere, full participation in the workshops and the coffee buffet is reserved exclusively for ticket holders.

For those planning to attend, it is recommended to arrive early, as the free-flow coffee is subject to availability. Residents and visitors can find the latest updates on participating merchants and redemption mechanics by following the official Instagram page at @weekendbrewclub or visiting the event’s dedicated website. Whether you are a fan of a robust kopi-o or a smooth latte, this March weekend promises a unique blend of flavors and festivities in the heart of Keat Hong.

Swap the air-conditioned gym for the shoreline this March as the Sentosa Development Corporation debuts the first-ever Sentosa Beach Fest. Taking place from March 14 to 22, 2026, this nine-day extravaganza transforms the island’s coast into a high-energy carnival featuring beachfront fitness challenges, world-class workshops, and neon-lit evening entertainment. Designed to bridge the gap between elite athleticism and family fun, the festival offers a diverse itinerary that transitions from sun-drenched obstacle heats to late-night DJ sets.

Conquer Singapore’s Only Beachfront Ninja Course

The festival’s crown jewel is a massive obstacle arena designed by Ninja Lab, the island’s premier ninja-style gym. For the first time, enthusiasts can test their grip strength and agility on a professional-grade rig set directly on the sand. The course features two distinct lanes: a beginner-friendly path for those new to the sport and a specialized gauntlet for seasoned competitors looking to shave seconds off their time.

As twilight falls, the arena undergoes a high-stakes transformation into Ninja Shadow Tag. In this nocturnal version of the sport, participants must navigate the illuminated course while evading live “ninjas” in a fast-paced game of pursuit.

Masterclasses with Global Fitness Icons

The Sentosa Beach Fest is leaning heavily into professional sports development, bringing in heavyweights from the international fitness community. Attendees can sharpen their skills through exclusive workshops hosted by:

• Dominic Di Tommaso: An Australian freerunning and parkour sensation known for his gravity-defying stunts.
• William Yoong: A decorated SEA Games medalist specializing in obstacle course racing.

Beyond the workshops, those with a competitive streak can sign up for the Battle Rope Challenge. Partnering with calisthenics festival Defy Gravity, the event offers a lucrative incentive for top performers, with $1,000 cash prizes up for grabs in multiple categories.

Family Playgrounds and After-Hours Entertainment

While the fitness programming caters to the “weekend warrior” crowd, the festival maintains a traditional carnival atmosphere through Adventure Land, an expansive zone filled with inflatable playgrounds. Casual visitors can join pick-up games of beach volleyball and ultimate frisbee, or browse the various food bazaars lining the shore.

Once the physical trials conclude, the vibe shifts to a beach party. Neon-themed nights featuring local and international DJs will keep the energy high until the gates close at 10pm.

Plan Your Visit

Sentosa Beach Fest runs daily from 8am to 10pm. While several zones are free to the public, primary attractions and workshops require tickets.

• Booking: Reservations can be made via the official Sentosa website.
• Perks: Mastercard holders enjoy a 10 per cent discount on ticketed activities.
• Rewards: Sentosa Islander members can earn loyalty points on all festival purchases.

Whether you are looking to secure a podium finish in the calisthenics arena or simply enjoy a gourmet bite by the sea, the festival marks a significant new addition to Singapore’s outdoor event calendar.

Singapore’s competitive dining landscape is set for a high-profile shakeup this spring. On March 26, 2026, the acclaimed Tokyo-based restaurant sio Aoyama—a mainstay of the Michelin Guide Tokyo for six consecutive years—will launch its first international venture, sio pasta, at Raffles City Shopping Centre. This casual offshoot aims to bridge the gap between fine-dining craftsmanship and everyday accessibility, offering artisanal Italian-Japanese fusion at a price point rarely seen from Michelin-tier pedigree.

High-End Precision Meets Casual Dining

The philosophy behind sio pasta is deceptively simple: deliver the meticulous standards of a Tokyo kitchen in a format designed for daily life. Unlike the exclusive, splurge-worthy experience of the flagship Aoyama location, this new outpost focuses on speed and affordability. Diners can expect a curated menu of over 10 varieties of fresh, handcrafted pasta, with prices starting at an accessible $13.80.

While the specific menu remains under wraps, the brand has teased signature creations like Japanese-style Pasta with Crispy Pancetta and Spinach, signaling a commitment to the “Wafu” style—a harmonious blend of traditional Italian techniques and Japanese flavor profiles.

From the Football Pitch to the Michelin Guide

The driving force behind the brand is Chef Shusaku Toba, whose unconventional journey into gastronomy has informed his unique culinary perspective. Before finding his calling in the kitchen, Toba was a J-League football trainee and an elementary school teacher. He did not begin his professional cooking career until the age of 31, eventually honing his craft at elite Tokyo establishments such as Florilège and Aria di Tacubo before launching sio in 2018.

Toba’s signature style, which he calls “Italian of points,” emphasizes extreme restraint and technical balance. The approach avoids culinary excess, focusing instead on:

• Aromatics: Precisely calibrated scents that enhance the dining experience.
• Texture: Sauces engineered to compliment, rather than drown, the noodle.
• Seasoning: A focus on clarity, where salt and spice elevate the natural ingredients.

Tailored for the Singaporean Palate

To ensure consistency, the Singapore launch is not a mere carbon copy of the Japanese original. Chef Toba and his team conducted rigorous on-site research and development to adjust for local variables, including Singapore’s high humidity and water mineral composition, both of which significantly affect pasta dough and boiling points.

Quality control is further bolstered by a rigorous training program. The Singapore kitchen will be managed by a local head chef who completed a month of intensive mentorship under Toba in Japan. To maintain these standards, Chef Toba will personally visit the Raffle City outlet every two months throughout its inaugural year.

As the city prepares for this opening, sio pasta stands to become a formidable player in the mid-range dining sector, proving that Michelin-standard precision doesn’t always have to come with a triple-digit price tag. For the latest menu reveals and opening day updates, foodies can follow the brand’s official Instagram.

Singapore’s vibrant dining scene welcomes a unique newcomer, Barrel: Story of Hibiki, an upscale Japanese concept backed by Suntory that represents the first Hibiki-focused restaurant outside of Japan. Located on Cecil Street, Barrel reimagines the traditional izakaya experience by infusing high-end Japanese whisky culture with refined, modernized dishes, challenging patrons’ expectations of casual dining and cocktail pairings. It offers a stylish escape, bridging heritage Japanese comfort food with cosmopolitan elegance in a dynamic setting that ranges from moody private vaults to a breezy outdoor terrace.

Ambiance: Where Whisky Casks Meet City Elegance

Barrel occupies a historic space previously home to prominent F&B concepts, retaining the architectural grandeur of high ceilings while introducing bespoke design elements. The interiors evoke a sleek, composed atmosphere, featuring dark wood and reclaimed cask wood panels sourced directly from Suntory’s distilleries—a subtle nod to the restaurant’s whisky provenance.

The heart of the dining room features a striking ten-seater counter encircling an open woodfire. Chefs utilize wood from decommissioned Hibiki barrels, offering diners a theatrical and aromatic close-up view of the cooking process. For a more intimate affair, The Vault, a former bank safe, has been transformed into a meditative, eight-seater private dining room. Lined entirely with Suntory cask wood, it provides a dimly lit, fragrant setting perfect for deep conversation and slow sips of aged spirits, available strictly by separate booking and minimum spend.

Meanwhile, the spacious terrace provides a relaxed, ambient alternative, particularly appealing during the daily 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Happy Hour, featuring affordable $9 highballs.

Culinary Ventures Beyond the Izakaya

Helmed by chef-partner Sho Naganuma, also known for Torasho Ramen & Charcoal Bar, Barrel’s menu ventures far beyond standard grilled fare. While classic (and familiar) ramen dishes are present, the focus shifts to elevated otsumami (food pairings for drinks) and ambitious main courses.

Creative starters abound, such as the prosciutto and cream cheese-wrapped maki ($18 for four) featuring seasonal fruit like Shine Muscat grapes, and the Uni-Corn Croquette ($24 for two), a golden bite stuffed with sweet creamed corn, butter sauce, and topped with sea-rich uni. Another highlight is the decadent Suckling Pig Belly ($22) served with crispy skin and balanced with Japanese mustard.

The menu’s most discussed item, however, is the $46 Chicken Rice. This dramatically priced dish uses free-range French chicken, poached and served atop chicken stock-infused Japanese pearl rice, finished with Oscietra caviar and a Hibiki whisky-laced oyster sauce. While highly experimental, early reviews suggest the subtle whisky note adds a sweetness but the dish lacks the traditional gelatinous chicken skin texture expected in a definitive rendition. It is best framed as a novel, one-time indulgence.

Conversely, the Aburi Wagyu Donabe ($68) is praised as a worthy centerpiece. Featuring melt-in-your-mouth A5 wagyu over pearl rice combined with cured egg yolk, green onions, and nori, the dish delivers rich, buttery, and addictive textural complexity. It requires a 40-minute preparation time but is deemed superior value compared to its contentious poultry counterpart.

Exploring the Spectrum of Hibiki Whisky

As the city’s first Hibiki-focused concept, Barrel is a haven for whisky enthusiasts. The drinks menu showcases an extensive selection of Suntory whiskies, from the accessible Japanese Harmony to rare 21- and 30-year expressions. Beyond standard offerings, the establishment features eight signature Hibiki-based cocktails, including the light and crisp Hibiki Highball ($18) and the intricate Hibiki Sling ($28).

For dedicated connoisseurs, whisky flights offer an unparalleled tasting experience. Options range from the accessible “Story of Hibiki” flight ($38), presenting Japanese Harmony in highball, on the rocks, and mizuwari formats, to the ultra-premium, “The Barrel” flight, priced at a staggering $988. These flights offer a structured journey through Suntory’s distinct flavor profiles and the aging process central to the brand’s identity.

Barrel: Story of Hibiki, located at 19 Cecil St, provides a distinctive proposition: an elegant culinary destination where the ritual of fine Japanese dining and the world of premium whisky intersect, offering a sophisticated retreat from Singapore’s urban bustle.

Barrel: Story of Hibiki

• Location: 19 Cecil St, Singapore 049704
• Hours: Mondays to Saturdays, Noon to 11 p.m.
• Pro-Tip: Reservations are recommended, especially for evening dining and private room bookings. Visitors seeking a casual experience should utilize the early afternoon Happy Hour on the terrace.

The National Heritage Board (NHB) is inviting the public to step directly into Singapore’s wartime history this spring through its annual Battle for Singapore programme. Running from February 21 to March 8, 2026, the comprehensive event offers more than 30 immersive experiences designed to move beyond traditional textbooks, allowing participants to explore the actual locations and circumstances faced by Singapore residents during the pivotal 1942 conflict. The 2026 iteration places a special focus on the brutal maritime evacuations that unfolded during the Japanese bombing campaign.

Experiencing the 1942 Sea Escape

The flagship event, “Passages at Last Light: Singapore’s WWII Maritime Evacuation Routes,” provides a visceral, unforgettable experience by retracing the arduous sea journeys undertaken by civilians and personnel fleeing the island in February 1942.

Participants will embark from the Singapore Maritime Gallery, sailing past historically significant landmarks, including St. John’s and Sisters’ Islands. Disembarking at the larger Sisters’ Island allows attendees to fully absorb narratives of desperation, survival, and naval encounters that permeated these waters during the final, terrifying days of the Battle for Singapore. This signature programme aims to capture the unimaginable horror and bravery of those who took to the sea to escape the attacks.

The NHB designed the overall initiative to uncover lesser-known sites and perspectives, offering a richer, more humanized understanding of the war’s impact. By bringing history to the places where it occurred, the programme seeks to foster a deeper connection between modern residents and the island’s heritage.

Exploring Hidden Battle Sites on Land

While the maritime escape is the highlight, the Battle for Singapore also provides rich historical experiences on the mainland. Land-based offerings allow visitors to delve into key defensive and strategic locations that played crucial roles in the conflict.

One notable activity is “Exploring Pasir Panjang: A Heritage Trail,” which guides participants through significant battlegrounds, including secret military installations. A highlight of this trail is a visit to the Faber Fire Command, a previously hidden bunker tucked away within Mount Faber, offering a rare glimpse into the wartime command structure.

Further accessible options cater to various age groups. For younger participants and families, the Changi Chapel and Museum is hosting a unique workshop where children can reconstruct iconic WWII sites using popular Lego bricks, blending education with creative play.

Planning Your Historical Journey

The extensive lineup includes both free and paid programmes, ensuring accessibility for all residents. Several paid events are eligible for the use of SG Culture Pass credits, providing additional ways for the public to engage with their national heritage.

To explore the complete schedule of tours, trails, talks, and booking information, interested individuals should visit the official National Heritage Board webpage dedicated to the 2026 Battle for Singapore event. Early registration is advised, particularly for the signature sea passage tour, as these unique immersive experiences tend to garner high public interest.

The annual Battle for Singapore programme serves as a crucial reminder of the nation’s resilience and sacrifices, transforming historical facts into tangible, meaningful experiences for a contemporary audience.

Singapore’s vibrant dining scene has welcomed Barrel: Story of Hibiki, an unprecedented Japanese-inspired concept on Cecil Street that merges the casual atmosphere of an izakaya with high-end culinary artistry, all centered around Suntory’s revered Hibiki whisky. This marks the brand’s first dedicated concept restaurant outside of its native Japan, offering a refined space where sophisticated spirits meet elevated Japanese bar snacks and creative renditions of familiar regional dishes—including a provocative, $46 luxury plate of Singapore’s iconic chicken rice.

Whisky Meets Gastronomy in a Polished Setting

Backed by the formidable Suntory brand, Barrel elevates the conventional after-work drinking spot from simple beers and bar bites to a sleek, polished destination. Located in a historic space previously home to institutions like The Black Swan, the restaurant boasts reclaimed cask wood panels shipped directly from Suntory’s distilleries, creating a truly unique aesthetic.

The interior favors dark woods and textured stone, cultivating a moody, elegant atmosphere—a stark contrast to the often-raucous packed izakayas. The centerpiece of the main dining area is a captivating 10-seater counter surrounding an open woodfire, fueled by wood from Hibiki barrels, allowing diners to witness the chefs in action. For those seeking an intimate retreat, The Vault, a former bank vault in the basement, has been transformed into a Zen-like eight-seater private dining room, steeped in the faint aroma of aged whisky and lined entirely with reclaimed casks. This space requires separate bookings and a minimum spend.

Chef Sho Naganuma Pushes Culinary Boundaries

Chef-partner Sho Naganuma, also behind the popular Torasho Ramen & Charcoal Bar, steers the menu far beyond standard grilled fare. While classic staples like tonkotsu ramen are available, the focus here is on innovative “otsumami”—plates specifically designed to pair with drinks—and inventive mains.

Dishes feature whisky-infused sauces and unexpected flavor combinations. Highlights include the indulgent Uni-Corn Croquette ($24 for two pieces), a deep-fried parcel stuffed with sweet creamed corn, drizzled with butter sauce, and crowned with opulent uni. Another textural masterpiece is the Tonsoku Harumaki ($12 per piece), a crispy spring roll encasing rich, slow-braised pig’s trotter. Guests can also enjoy refined bites such as prosciutto and cream cheese maki ($18 for four pieces) wrapped around seasonal fruits.

The $46 Chicken Rice Debate

Barrel has sparked conversation with its ultra-premium rendition of chicken rice, served at a staggering $46. The dish features poached, free-range French chicken cooked in fat, Japanese pearl rice infused with chicken stock, a decadent topping of Oscietra caviar, and a finishing touch of Hibiki whisky-laced oyster sauce. While highly experimental, critical feedback suggests the dish, though tender, lacks the signature gelatinous skin layer essential to a great traditional version, and the caviar felt ornamental. It serves primarily as a novelty indulgence rather than a definitive take on the national dish.

More worthy of its price tag is the Aburi Wagyu Donabe ($68), which necessitates a 40-minute preparation time. The dish showcases stellar A5 aburi wagyu complemented by textured Japanese rice, cured egg yolk, and generous portions of green onions and nori, delivering a buttery, addictive depth of flavor.

A Destination for Suntory Whisky Aficionados

As a concept dedicated to Hibiki, Barrel boasts one of Asia’s most comprehensive selections of Suntory whiskies, ranging from the smooth Hibiki Japanese Harmony to the highly coveted 21- and 30-year limited expressions.

The bar specializes in whisky flights, offering experiences for every budget. The Story of Hibiki flight ($38) presents Japanese Harmony in three formats: highball, on the rocks, and mizuwari. For collectors, the menu features ultra-exclusive options, including a $188 Hibiki 100th Anniversary Edition flight and the extraordinary $988 The Barrel flight.

Cocktails cleverly integrate the whisky, such as the simple yet effective Hibiki highball ($18) and the complex, Japanese-inspired Hibiki Sling ($28). Beyond whisky, the menu features other Suntory spirits, including the refreshing Citrus Twist Sour ($22) and the Hakushu rice vodka-spiked Matcha Coco ($26), though some blended concoctions like the latter are noted to be overly syrupy.

Overall, Barrel: Story of Hibiki achieves its aim of delivering a sophisticated, design-forward dining experience that expertly marries Japanese spirit culture with culinary innovation, earning a strong 4/5 rating.

Barrel: Story of Hibiki is located at 19 Cecil St, Singapore 049704. Open Mondays to Saturdays from noon to 11 pm.

The National Heritage Board (NHB) is inviting the public to step beyond textbook narratives and immerse themselves in the visceral reality of Singapore’s World War II experience through its annual Battle for Singapore program, running from February 21 to March 8, 2026. This year, the two-week event places a critical focus on the often-overlooked and terrifying maritime evacuations of 1942, allowing participants to retrace the perilous sea journeys undertaken by civilians fleeing the devastating Japanese bombardment. With over 30 unique programs, the initiative promises to unlock submerged history and offer compelling, on-site perspectives of the island’s wartime legacy.

Sailing into a Dark History

The signature offering of this year’s program is “Passages at Last Light: Singapore’s WWII Maritime Evacuation Routes.” This moving experience transports attendees onto the water to chart the very paths taken by thousands of men, women, and children hastily seeking refuge by boat in February 1942.

The voyage begins at the Singapore Maritime Gallery and sails past significant landmarks like St. John’s Island before docking at the larger Sisters’ Island. While onboard, historians and storytellers recount dramatic tales of the chaotic evacuations, naval skirmishes, and the sheer desperation that defined those final weeks before the fall of Singapore. For many, this maritime perspective offers a profound, tangible connection to an unimaginable period of immense suffering and resilience.

Uncovering Hidden Front Lines on Land

While the sea takes center stage, the NHB ensures that key terrestrial battlefields and command centers are also accessible through guided experiences. History buffs can enroll in “Exploring Pasir Panjang: A Heritage Trail,” which navigates participants through critical battle sites, including the area where the Malay Regiment fought its last stand.

The trail also exposes secret wartime infrastructure, such as the secluded Faber Fire Command post hidden deep within Mount Faber. These explorations offer insight into the logistics and intense ground conflicts that occurred across the island, supplementing the understanding of the naval withdrawal. For younger participants, the Changi Chapel and Museum offers an engaging, age-appropriate activity where children can reconstruct iconic WWII buildings using Lego bricks, providing a creative entry point into history.

Accessing the Full Lineup

The Battle for Singapore program emphasizes accessibility, offering a mix of free and paid events. Several workshops and tours are eligible for redemption using SG Culture Pass credits, encouraging wide public participation.

The series aims to challenge conventional memorization of dates by providing a physical, emotional encounter with the past. By activating historical sites, the NHB hopes participants develop a deeper appreciation for the courage and tragedy inherent in Singapore’s wartime heritage.

Full detailed program schedules, registration information, and any associated fees are available on the official National Heritage Board website (https://www.nhb.gov.sg/what-we-do/our-work/sector-development/museum-roundtable/2026-battle-for-singapore). Given the unique nature of the specialized tours, interested individuals are advised to secure reservations promptly, particularly for popular programs like the maritime evacuation route retracement.

Singapore Airlines (SIA) is dramatically simplifying travel to the Middle East, confirming the launch of nonstop service between Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (RUH) starting in June 2026. This highly anticipated connection eliminates layovers, catering to growing business and leisure demand by offering direct and efficient access to the Saudi capital. Subject to regulatory approval, the flights represent a significant expansion of the SIA Group’s footprint in the Kingdom.

Nonstop Schedule and Aircraft Details

The new route, operating four times weekly, will utilize a medium-haul Airbus A350-900 aircraft, recognized for its efficiency and comfort on international routes. This configuration accommodates 303 passengers, including 40 seats in the premium Business Class cabin and 263 in Economy Class.

The outbound service, designated SQ498, will depart Singapore every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at 6:20 p.m. Singapore time. The projected flight duration is less than nine hours, arriving in Riyadh the same evening. The return flight, SQ499, is scheduled to depart Riyadh at 11:00 p.m. local time on the same operational days.

The swift, direct connection is poised to boost accessibility for both inbound and outbound travelers, slashing transit times previously experienced on connecting routes.

Tapping into a Dynamic Middle Eastern Hub

SIA views Riyadh not merely as an added destination but as a crucial gateway to one of the most rapidly developing regions in the Middle East. Lee Lik Hsin, Chief Commercial Officer for SIA, emphasized the capital’s strategic importance, citing its burgeoning commercial ecosystem and vibrant cultural landscape.

Riyadh is undergoing a significant transformation, attracting both investment and tourism. Travelers seeking a blend of history and modernity will find much to explore. Must-visit cultural sites, such as the historic mud-brick city of Diriyah and the Masmak Fortress, stand in contrast to the city’s sleek new districts, offering luxury hotels, world-class dining, and extensive retail options—ideal for a weekend getaway or an extended stay.

SIA Group’s Growing Presence in Saudi Arabia

The introduction of the Singapore-Riyadh route marks SIA Group’s second successful entry into the Saudi Arabian market. The new four-times-weekly service complements the existing flights offered by Scoot, the group’s low-cost carrier, which operates four weekly routes to Jeddah. This dual-city approach ensures comprehensive connectivity for travelers heading to economic, religious, or tourism centers across the Kingdom.

With tickets anticipated to roll out progressively across the airline’s standard booking platforms in the coming months, prospective travelers interested in securing seats for the inaugural services are advised to monitor the availability closely.

This new direct route underscores the broader industry trend of enhancing connectivity to dynamic, emerging metropolitan areas, positioning Singapore as a premier Southeast Asian hub for accessing the burgeoning opportunities in the Gulf region.

Looking for More Travel Insights?

• Exploring Southeast Asia: Discover emerging destinations and streamlined travel options from Singapore.
• Cultural Journeys: Tips for navigating new customs and experiencing unique historical landmarks in the Middle East.

Related: Stay informed about the upcoming Korea Travel Fair 2026 in Singapore, featuring travel deals, K-food, and celebrity appearances.

Singapore’s renowned Jumbo Group, the culinary force perpetually associated with iconic chili crab and black pepper crab, is redefining the local dining landscape with its audacious new concept: Jumboree. This expansive, 17,997-square-foot food hall, situated in the bustling Tai Seng district, unites over ten of the Group’s most popular F\&B brands under a single, fully air-conditioned roof, promising a centralized destination for diverse Asian comfort food and entertainment.

Jumbo’s Culinary Empire Under One Roof

Jumboree’s anchor tenant is the highly anticipated Jumbo 1987, a seafood dai pai dong concept. This space pays homage to the vibrant, open-air food stalls of Hong Kong, offering Jumbo Group’s signature seafood dishes at attractive nett prices, eliminating the guesswork of service charges and taxes. Pair these classics with draft beer, available for approximately $16 per pint, establishing a lively, communal atmosphere reminiscent of traditional street dining, but upgraded for Singapore’s professional dining standards.

Beyond the crustacean delights, Jumboree strategically curates a multi-brand experience drawing from the Jumbo Group’s diverse portfolio and esteemed partnerships. Among the highlights is Kok Kee Wonton Noodles, a long-standing favorite celebrated for its springy texture and plump pork wontons generously coated in a proprietary sauce. Diners can also indulge in the celebrated, peppery pork bone soup from Ng Ah Sio Bak Kut Teh, widely considered a benchmark for the dish locally.

The food hall expertly incorporates international flavors familiar to the Singapore palate. The lineup features rich, comforting dishes from the popular Hong Kong cha chaan teng chain Tsui Wah, including their famous condensed-milk buns. For those craving high-end rice dishes, Chao Ting Teochew Pao Fan, a firm favorite among the central business district’s office crowd, offers luxurious seafood pao fan (submerged rice).

Beyond Dining: A Hub for Evening Entertainment

Jumboree is designed to be more than just a quick meal stop; it is positioned as a late-night entertainment venue, integrating live music to elevate the dining experience.

The venue schedules live band performances from Monday through Saturday across three distinct evening slots:

• 8:00 PM to 8:45 PM
• 9:15 PM to 10:15 PM
• 10:45 PM to 11:30 PM

This strategic programming ensures a dynamic atmosphere, catering to patrons looking for dinner paired with live entertainment well into the night.

The advent of Jumboree signifies a strategic expansion by the Jumbo Group, moving beyond individual restaurant locations to dominate the large-format, experiential food hall segment. By consolidating established brands and ensuring climate-controlled comfort, the group is capitalizing on high-density commercial areas like Tai Seng to deliver efficiency and variety to Singapore’s discerning dining market. Visitors seeking more details on operating hours and specific brand listings are advised to check the official Jumboree webpage.