Kampong Glam

Historic Malay-Arab area with Sultan Mosque, cafes, and traditional shops. Safe and culturally interesting, with more subdued nightlife.

Kampong Glam is the historic Malay-Arab quarter. Sultan Mosque with its golden dome is the center, surrounded by old shophouses that now have cafes, Middle Eastern restaurants, and boutiques. Haji Lane is the colorful Instagram alley with murals and hip bars. Arab Street and Bussorah Street have more traditional carpet shops and Turkish restaurants. The mix works - Muslim bakeries next to cocktail bars, tourists photographing the mosque while locals go to pray. It's safe at all hours with good lighting. Solo dining works at both traditional halal places and modern cafes. Dress modestly near the mosque (cover shoulders and knees). The nightlife is more subdued than other areas - no loud clubs. English is widely spoken.