Aug 10, 2025 03:37:59 AM

Accessible Singapore

Accessible Shopping: Malls That Got It Right

For many, shopping is more than just running errands. In Singapore, malls are social hubs where people gather to eat, relax, shop, and attend events. But for individuals with mobility, sensory, or visual impairments, not every mall offers a comfortable experience. Thankfully, several malls in Singapore have stepped up to meet the challenge, incorporating thoughtful design and inclusive features that make shopping truly accessible for all.


This guide explores some of the top malls that have gotten it right, combining universal design, clear signage, smart layouts, and helpful staff to create a barrier-free experience. Whether you’re a wheelchair user, a parent pushing a stroller, or a senior seeking comfort and safety, these malls are designed to welcome everyone.


1. Jewel Changi Airport


Overview:


First began with the need to expand the capacity of Changi Airport’s Terminal 1 as well as its open-air car park. This led to a strategic vision, with the conception of Jewel as a gem of a destination, to augment Changi Airport’s position as a leading global air hub and boost its appeal as a stopover destination for travelers. The stunning result is a mixed-use development with gardens, attractions, retail, dining, a hotel, and facilities to support airport operations. This integration of nature with engineering marvels housed under a striking glass and steel dome is poised to make headlines:


  • Connected to T1, T2 and T3
  • Hotel facilities
  • 2,500 car park spaces
  • Accessible from Changi Airport MRT station


Image source: jewelchangiairport.com


Opening hours:


Jewel is open 24 hours. 

Most shops operate between 10 am to 10 pm. 

Selected shops have extended operating hours.

*Please check the directory listing for specific operating hours.


Address:


Jewel Changi Airport

78 Airport Boulevard

Singapore 819666


Accessibility Highlights:


  • Step-free entrances and wide, barrier-free walkways throughout
  • Elevators serving all floors, with Braille buttons and audio announcements
  • Wheelchair rental available at Level 1 (near the Concierge)
  • Family-friendly and accessible toilets on every level
  • Clear, high-contrast directional signage


Why It Works:


Jewel’s layout is circular, making navigation intuitive. Attractions like the Canopy Bridge and Hedge Maze have wheelchair-friendly access points, and staff are trained to assist guests with special needs.


2. VivoCity


Overview:


An iconic retail, entertainment & lifestyle destination that constantly surprises and stimulates visitors with its vibrant mix of retail and entertainment concepts. It features wide, open spaces for waterfront relaxation and entertainment, and a full calendar of exciting festivals and events that will draw both locals and foreign visitors. The design for VivoCity was inspired by the HarbourFront location of the development, which evokes images of waves in the sea. Each space leads intuitively into the next, creating an enjoyable shopping experience.


Image source: vivocity.com.sg


Opening hours: Open 10 am - 10 pm daily. Customer Service Hotline: 6377 6870


Address: 1 HarbourFront Walk, Singapore 098585


Accessibility Highlights:


  • Extra-wide corridors and automatic sliding doors at major entrances
  • Reserved parking spaces near the lifts
  • Multiple elevators with tactile indicators
  • Level 1 features barrier-free drop-off zones
  • Accessible toilets with adult-sized changing facilities


Bonus:


The open-air Promenade area is wheelchair-accessible and provides excellent sunset views. It also links directly to the Sentosa Boardwalk, which is fully accessible.


3. Funan


Overview:


With a total gross floor area of approximately 887,000 sq ft, the Funan integrated development comprises a retail component, two office blocks, and lyf Funan Singapore – the Singapore flagship of The Ascott Limited’s lyf coliving serviced residence that is designed by millennials for millennials. Located right in the heart of the Civic District with excellent connectivity, including a direct underpass linking to the City Hall MRT interchange station. As a new paradigm for live, work, and play in Singapore’s city centre, Funan offers a synergistic combination of retail, office, and serviced residence components that is designed to appeal to savvy consumers pursuing quality of life in a socially-conscious and creative environment.


Image source: capitaland.com/sg/malls/funan


Opening hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM


Address: 107 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179105


Accessibility Highlights:


  • Smart lifts and seamless escalator connections
  • Wheelchair-friendly coworking spaces and seating zones
  • Braille tactile signage in lifts
  • Free wheelchair rental at the Concierge
  • Guide paths for the visually impaired


Extra Touch:


Smart directories with voice output help navigate the mall. Some stores also offer QR codes linking to audio product guides.


4. Plaza Singapura


Overview:


Located along Orchard Road, Singapore’s main shopping belt, and in the Civic and Cultural District, the mall enjoys a direct Basement 2 link to the Dhoby Ghaut MRT interchange station, which connects three MRT lines – the North South Line, the North East Line, and the Circle Line. The mall’s broad-based positioning, coupled with its wide range of retail offerings to cater to the needs of families and friends, allows it to attract a wide range of shoppers from all over Singapore. Plaza Singapura is seamlessly connected to the retail podium of The Atrium@Orchard via internal walkways on levels 1, 3, and 4.


Image source: capitaland.com/sg/en/lease/mall-listing/plaza-singapura


Opening hours: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm


Address: Located along Orchard Road, Singapore’s main shopping belt, and in the Civic and Cultural District. Super convenient too, it has a direct Basement 2 link to Dhoby Ghaut MRT interchange station.


Accessibility Highlights:


  • Step-free entrances and tactile flooring
  • Wide walkways and lift access on every level
  • Accessible toilets near food courts and cinemas
  • Clear mall maps with icon-based navigation


Getting There:


The mall is directly connected to Dhoby Ghaut MRT, which is equipped with lifts, wide fare gates, and tactile guides, making your journey seamless from train to mall.


5. NEX Mall (Serangoon)


Overview:


The biggest mall in the North-East region of Singapore. This 7-storey mall is fully integrated with the Serangoon Bus Interchange and the Serangoon Interchange Station, where the North-East Line and the Circle Line intersect.


Positioned to be the vibrant, social and recreational hub for the North-East community, nex features a comprehensive and eclectic mix of retail, entertainment and dining options, including perennial favourites such as Isetan, Cold Storage 24 hr, FairPrice Xtra 24 hr, Anytime Fitness 24 hr, Shaw Theatres NEX and the Serangoon Public Library. You can shop for your latest fashion fix at H&M, Uniqlo, Cotton On, Sephora, Swarovski, M.A.C, Kiehl’s and Laneige.


Located on the rooftop of NEX is SkyGarden, a fun-filled children's playground incorporating dry and wet interactive play equipment.


Owners can bring their pets to visit The Pet Safari via designated lifts (1 and 2).  Dogs are not allowed in other areas of the mall.


NEX is a great place for families and friends to come together!


Image source: facebook.com/NEX.sg


Opening hours: Daily 10.30 am - 10.30 pm


Address: 23 Serangoon Central, Singapore 556083


Accessibility Highlights:


  • Reserved parking bays close to entrances
  • Barrier-free entrances and corridors
  • Tactile floor indicators throughout major paths
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating in food courts and the cinema
  • Accessible changing rooms in fashion outlets


Community Feature:


NEX’s inclusive playground on the rooftop garden includes wheelchair-friendly play equipment and shaded rest zones.


Tips for a Better Shopping Experience


  • Visit during off-peak hours (weekday mornings or late evenings) to avoid crowds.
  • Use mall concierge services; most offer free wheelchair rental or assistance upon request.
  • Download the mall’s mobile app, if available, to access navigation maps, store directories, and assistance hotlines.
  • Don’t hesitate to ask, mall staff are usually trained in basic disability awareness and are happy to help.


What to Look For in an Accessible Mall


Even if you’re exploring beyond the major malls listed above, here’s a quick checklist:


  • Are there automatic or push-button doors?
  • Are restrooms equipped with emergency pull cords and accessible sinks?
  • Is signage clear, multilingual, and easy to understand?
  • Are there seats or rest areas along long corridors?
  • Do digital directories offer audio or tactile feedback?


Inclusive design isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about creating spaces where everyone feels welcome. In Singapore, the malls that get it right aren’t just functional, they’re delightful to navigate. They turn errands into experiences and remove the stress from outings.


Whether you’re catching a movie, grabbing a bite, or simply window shopping, these malls show that accessibility can, and should, be a natural part of everyday life.


Visit www.accessible-singapore.com for more detailed precinct guides, accessibility maps, and reviews from real users navigating the city.


Singapore is making shopping inclusive and better for all.