After 23 years of operations, HabourFront Centre will be closing for redevelopment in the second half of 2026.
This landmark complex, formerly known as Singapore’s World Trade Center, was first established in 1978 and linked to an international cruise center and VivoCity—Singapore’s largest retail and lifestyle destination. Some of the most iconic events to occur in the building were the Singapore International Motor Show in 1978, the first large-scale exhibition of its kind; the Miss Universe Pageant in 1987 which had at least 600 million viewers worldwide; and the 1990 Guinness World of Records Exhibition.
The closing is a result of a planned expansion led by real estate company Mapletree, transforming the three-story development into “a landmark that redefines Singapore’s southern skyline” over the course of five years.
The building has been a staple of Singapore’s waterfront district, and has housed the Singapore Cruise Centre since 1991. If you’re up for a nostalgic trip down memory lane before the HarbourFront Centre closes, then we have a few recommendations for you.
For foodies, grab a bite at Tuckshop for Hunan-style handmade noodles and kopi, or eat at Hoe Nam Prawn Noodles for the taste of soup that’s been perfected for the past 56 years. You can also grab a dessert at Nakanishi Cakes for banana cakes and other pastries. If you’re into movies then Poh Kim Video might be your speed, where you can rent out DVDs from almost any genre. For more specialized interests, Pitstop Collective is your one-stop shop for Formula One merchandise, while the Outpost offers bespoke cheongsams and evening dresses.
If you just want to spend time with friends, then the pool hall is the place to be, with its impressive array of 22 pool tables, 6 8-ball tables, and 6 dart machines. And if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, you can also visit The Escape Artist, V-Room and Lava Floor activities, which all share the same space.
While locals continue to enjoy their remaining time with the center, the redevelopment will begin some time after July 2026, turning the property into a 33-storey mixed-use building, with 26 floors of office spaces and 5 floors of curated retail spaces. The new complex is set to be completed by the 1st half of 2031.