2026 countdown: Marina Bay & Kallang Basin to be very crowded

Large crowds are expected to gather around Marina Bay and the Kallang Basin on New Year’s Eve, with the police implementing enhanced security, crowd control and traffic measures to keep revellers safe.

In a media release on Dec. 28, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) said the arrangements are part of its preparations for ONE Countdown 2026.

Heavy crowds expected at countdown locations

Large turnouts are anticipated at various event sites around Marina Bay and Kallang Basin throughout the evening of Dec. 31 and into the early hours of Jan. 1, according to SPF.

Members of the public heading to these areas are advised to expect congestion and longer waiting times, particularly closer to midnight, as crowd numbers peak.

To prevent overcrowding, police officers and security personnel will regulate the number of people entering areas, such as The Promontory, One Fullerton/ Merlion Park, Esplanade Park, Esplanade Waterfront Promenade and Marina Bay Sands Waterfront Promenade.

Similar measures will be implemented at Stadium Roar, Stadium Riverside Walk, Beach Volleyball Court, Lawn Bowl, Tanjong Rhu Promenade and the Water Sports Centre in the Kallang Basin.

These areas will be closed once crowd levels reach safety thresholds.

Enhanced security and crowd control measures

To ensure public safety, SPF added it will deploy additional police officers and auxiliary police officers in the affected areas.

These officers will carry out crowd control measures, conduct patrols and manage pedestrian flow at high-traffic locations.

Security checks may also be conducted, and the police warned that prohibited items will not be allowed into event areas.

Members of the public are advised to comply with officers on the ground and follow instructions issued throughout the night.

The police said the measures are meant to deter crime, prevent overcrowding and allow emergency services to respond quickly should the need arise.

Road closures and traffic arrangements

In addition to security measures, several roads around Marina Bay and Kallang Basin will be closed or restricted to traffic on New Year’s Eve to facilitate crowd movement and ensure safety.

Motorists are advised to plan their journeys early, expect diversions and consider using public transport where possible.

The open space car park along Bayfront Avenue will also be closed, with members of the public advised to take public transport as parking availability around Marina Bay will be limited.

Details of affected roads and timings have been published by the police ahead of the festivities.

Auxiliary police officers will be deployed to manage congestion and guide motorists at all affected road junctions.

Check crowd levels before heading down

To help the public make informed decisions, the police will also provide real-time crowd updates and photos of the Marina Bay and Kallang areas on the night itself.

Members of the public can check crowd levels online at Crowd@MarinaBay and Crowd@Kallang before heading down, and are encouraged to avoid overcrowded locations where possible.

These portals will be accessible via mobile devices on Dec. 31, from 7pm and 8:30pm respectively.

SPF advised revellers to remain patient, especially during dispersal after the countdown when crowd density is expected to be high.

The police added that these measures are in place to ensure that everyone can enjoy the New Year celebrations safely and are seeking the public’s cooperation for a smooth and incident-free countdown.

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