92 bars & clubs in Clarke Quay to extend liquor trading hours till 4am on Thursdays & Fridays

The Singapore Police Force approved 92 applications to extend liquor trading hours to 4am (the following day) on all Thursday and Friday nights within the Clarke Quay Conservation Area, Boat Quay Historic District and Upper Circular Road area.

In an Aug. 17 joint press release by the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the Ministry of National Development and the Ministry of Home Affairs, this was the result of a one-year pilot of revitalisation measures introduced on Aug. 18, 2025.

Following encouraging results and strong interest from businesses, the government will formalise the measures with effect from Aug. 18, 2026.

In a doorstop on Aug. 17, Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of National Development, Alvin Tan, said, “We think that these measures will help our tourism and nightlife offerings become more attractive. It will support business vibrancy and also create good jobs in the sector.”

“As we know, both Boat Quay and Clarke Quay behind me are prominent waterfront destinations for both locals and tourists alike.”

Revitalisation measures

According to the press release, the Boat Quay Historic District and Clarke Quay Conservation Area, both located within the historic Singapore River precinct, play an important role in Singapore’s lifestyle landscape.

The revitalisation measures in the area are as follows:

1. Allowing new Change of Use applications for new bars, pubs and nightclubs within the Boat Quay Historic District along the Boat Quay Waterfront, Circular Road, Lorong Telok and Canton Street, with approved proposals granted Temporary Permission for up to three years,
2. Extension of liquor trading hours to 4am (the following day) on all Thursday and Friday nights,
3. Resumption of road closures at Circular Road for events and pedestrian-friendly activities.

Results of pilot

Between August 2025 and June 2026, the Urban Redevelopment Authority has approved 37 applications for new nightlife uses in the Boat Quay Historic District where new applications can be considered.

The press release noted that the law-and-order situation in the precinct has remained stable throughout the pilot with support from local stakeholders in stepping up security patrols.

Businesses may continue to apply for the relevant approvals, such as Change of Use applications and extended liquor trading hours after the formalisation of revitalisation measures.

"The Government will continue to work with local stakeholders to facilitate nightlife vibrancy in the Boat Quay Historic District and neighbouring areas," added the press release.

"The respective agencies will continue to work with local stakeholders on security measures to ensure law and order as well as responsible management of the nightlife spaces and public areas at these locations."