Singapore’s tourism industry is feeling the effects of the prolonged haze, with many tour operators experiencing a significant drop in bookings and a rise in cancellations, particularly since air quality took a turn for the worse on October 24. According to the National Environment Agency (NEA), the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reached levels of 108 to 151, surpassing the unhealthy threshold of 100.
Booking Declines Reported by Tour Operators
Six Stars Tours and Services reported booking declines of 30% to 80% from three overseas origin cities since September, while cancellations for upcoming bookings from those markets reached 30% to 50%.
Sherry Shen, director of business development at VTL Travel, estimated that ticket purchases had fallen by 20% to 30% since September. The company, which operates walking, cycling, and other activities through Rediscover Singapore, reduced its monthly tours from four to eight to just two in September and October. Cancellation requests affected approximately 10% to 20% of bookings, while 80% to 90% of customers asked about haze conditions in Singapore and neighboring countries.
In response, VTL Travel moved some outdoor activities indoors and offered complimentary date changes. Despite the downturn, the company has confirmed four tours for November, suggesting some recovery in forward bookings.
Not all tourism businesses have been equally affected. World Express, another Singapore travel agency, reported no significant reduction in bookings, though it has assisted customers in adjusting activities and taking precautions during the haze.
Visitors Adjust Their Plans Due to Poor Air Quality
International visitors to Singapore have altered their plans, particularly during periods of unhealthy air quality. The Straits Times spoke to travelers who reported wearing protective masks, reducing time outdoors, or experiencing physical discomfort. Margaryta Ruchko, a Ukrainian visitor who attended the Token2049 cryptocurrency conference on October 6-7, said the haze limited her ability to explore beyond the event and caused coughing after outdoor exposure. She plans to check haze conditions before returning.
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Taiwanese tourist Ted Zheng, who arrived on October 22, proceeded with his visit after air quality improved, though he remained prepared to wear a mask during outdoor sightseeing.
Hotels in Singapore have adapted by providing haze advisories, enhancing air filtration, and modifying access to outdoor facilities when necessary, according to the Singapore Tourism Board.
The board reported that Singapore welcomed 1.23 million international visitors in September, a 2.2% decline from the same month in 2025. However, this drop cannot be attributed solely to the haze, as economic uncertainty and higher fuel costs also influence tourist arrivals. October visitor statistics are expected in November.
Air Quality Deteriorates, but Improvement Is Forecast
The National Environment Agency observed smoke haze from Sumatra drifting toward Singapore, with additional haze over Kalimantan. On October 24, one-hour PM2.5 concentrations ranged from 33 to 97 micrograms per cubic meter at 5 p.m. local time. The agency forecasted PSI readings between 80 and 130 for October 25, indicating moderate to unhealthy air quality.
However, improvement may be possible. The NEA expects winds to shift southwest or west, potentially limiting haze transport into Singapore. Showers forecasted for the region could further aid air quality over the following days. Further improvement is possible on October 26 and 27 if the expected conditions develop.