Embarking on a journey to Singapore? Prepare to immerse yourself in a vibrant city where futuristic skyscrapers coexist with rich cultural heritage. Known for its cleanliness, safety, and efficiency, Singapore promises a unique travel experience.

However, before you pack your bags and set off for this pristine paradise, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the ten fundamental rules that will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

These guidelines not only preserve the city's immaculate charm but also help you dodge hefty fines and misunderstandings, leaving you to focus on capturing those picture-perfect Instagram moments. In Singapore, they don’t just wish you a pleasant day – they guarantee one!

1. No Smoking Zone

Singapore has stringent smoking regulations that extend to nearly all public areas, including parks, shopping malls, and bus stops. Smokers must seek out designated areas clearly marked with signage before lighting up.

The government enforces substantial fines for violations, sometimes reaching upwards of $1,000 for first offenses, and with patrol officers regularly monitoring these areas, it’s crucial to be aware of where smoking is permitted.

Notably, e-cigarettes and vaping devices are entirely banned in the country, contributing to Singapore’s commitment to public health and cleanliness.

2. Chewing Gum Ban

One of Singapore’s most infamous rules is the prohibition of chewing gum. Importing or selling gum is illegal unless it is prescribed for medical purposes, such as therapeutic dental gum. This regulation was instituted to prevent vandalism and maintenance issues, particularly with the MRT train doors, which were previously damaged by gum.

Customs officials actively monitor for gum at entry points, so it’s best to leave all gum products at home to avoid complications during immigration. This unique law underscores Singapore's dedication to maintaining public cleanliness and order.

3. Spotless Streets

The city’s commitment to cleanliness is evident in its strict anti-littering laws. Even minor infractions, like discarding a cigarette butt or candy wrapper, can lead to hefty fines—first-time offenders may face penalties up to $2,000, while repeat offenders could be assigned community service. Those performing corrective work must wear bright vests publicly identifying their offense, which serves as a visible reminder of the importance of maintaining cleanliness.

With conveniently placed trash bins throughout the city, proper disposal is easy and encouraged. This dedication to cleanliness is a core value in Singaporean society, reflecting a collective responsibility for public spaces.

4. Drug Laws

Singapore is known for its zero-tolerance approach to drugs, enforcing some of the strictest anti-drug laws globally. Trafficking certain quantities of illegal substances can lead to the death penalty, while even possession of small amounts carries severe penalties, including long prison sentences. Authorities can prosecute individuals based on drug traces found in their systems, regardless of where the consumption occurred.

For travelers, it’s crucial to be aware that prescription medications should be accompanied by appropriate documentation from your doctor. Random drug tests at entry points further highlight the government’s commitment to combating drug use.

5. Queuing Culture

Orderly queuing is a hallmark of Singaporean social behavior. Whether at bus stops, hawker centres, or taxi lines, everyone adheres to the principle of waiting their turn. Queue-jumping is not only frowned upon but can provoke public disapproval or confrontation. During peak times, attendants often manage queues at popular locations, reinforcing the importance of patience and respect in public spaces. This cultural norm reflects Singapore’s broader emphasis on social order and mutual respect, making it essential for visitors to embrace this practice.

6. Public Transport Etiquette

Eating and drinking are strictly prohibited on Singapore’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system, including all stations and trains. Violators face fines up to $500, as authorities utilize surveillance cameras and plain-cloaked officers to enforce this rule. To maintain the cleanliness of public transport, be sure to finish all food and drinks before entering. Additionally, it is essential to give up your seat to elderly or disabled passengers, reflecting the city’s commitment to respect and consideration for all.

7. Road Safety

Jaywalking laws are actively enforced in Singapore; pedestrians must use designated crossings at all times. Police officers issue on-the-spot tickets for violations, with fines increasing for repeat offenders. The city is equipped with pedestrian bridges, underpasses, and controlled crossings, ensuring safe passage for pedestrians.

Traffic signals often feature countdown timers to indicate the remaining crossing time, contributing to Singapore’s low pedestrian accident rate despite its bustling streets. Visitors should remain vigilant and always adhere to traffic rules to ensure their safety.

8. Tipping Customs

In contrast to many tourist destinations, tipping is not a common practice in Singapore. Most establishments include a 10% service charge in bills, which means additional gratuities are unnecessary. Leaving extra money may cause confusion or even offense, as service staff do not expect tips. This transparent pricing system simplifies dining and service experiences for visitors, allowing you to enjoy meals without worrying about calculating gratuities.

9. Public Displays of Affection

Although Singapore is a modern city, traditional values still influence acceptable public behavior. Holding hands is widely accepted, but more intimate displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, may attract disapproval, particularly in conservative areas. Visitors should remain mindful of their surroundings and local sensibilities, especially in areas with a strong cultural or religious presence. This guideline reflects Singapore’s unique blend of contemporary lifestyle and traditional Asian values.

10. Religious Respect

Singapore’s rich tapestry of religious diversity necessitates respectful behavior in places of worship. Modest attire covering shoulders and knees is required in mosques, temples, and churches, with many sites providing sarongs or coverings for those who may be underdressed. Visitors should also adhere to guidelines regarding photography and maintain silence within sacred spaces.

Being respectful of local customs and traditions not only enriches your experience but also acknowledges Singapore’s multicultural heritage and the importance of religious harmony in the nation.

Final Thoughts

While Singapore’s rules may seem strict compared to other vacation spots, they contribute to the city’s renowned cleanliness, efficiency, and safety. By following these ten essential commandments, you can avoid unexpected fines and fully enjoy your trip. After all, you don’t want to explain to friends back home how you spent your souvenir budget on a littering fine! So, keep your gum at home, smoke only in designated areas, and embrace the orderly charm of this remarkable city.

By respecting local customs and regulations, you’ll not only have a memorable vacation but also leave with a deeper appreciation for Singapore’s unique culture and values.

British Airways flight BA519 from Lisbon to London Heathrow declared an emergency on July 5, 2025, while entering British airspace due to a technical issue with the aircraft’s nose gear steering system. The Airbus A319 (registration G-EUPG) departed Lisbon Airport at 18:33 WEST, nearly two hours behind its scheduled departure time, and was originally expected to land at Heathrow at 19:10 BST.

As the flight began its approach to London Heathrow, pilots activated the emergency squawk code 7700, signaling the need for a priority landing because the nose gear servo was malfunctioning, preventing the aircraft from steering on the ground. This technical issue raised concerns about safe taxiing after touchdown, prompting emergency protocols at the airport.

Air traffic control initially switched landings from runway 27L to 27R at 20:50 BST to manage traffic and emergency response. However, BA519 returned to final approach on runway 27L by 20:58 BST. The aircraft safely landed on runway 27L at 21:05 BST, where it was immediately met by emergency vehicles including fire trucks. The plane vacated the runway by 21:07 BST and was inspected on the taxiway, escorted by fire services.

By 21:24 BST, the aircraft had been guided to stand A14 at Terminal 5 for further inspection and passenger disembarkation. Normal landing operations resumed on runway 27L shortly before this. There have been no reports of injuries or further complications, and the incident was managed efficiently with coordinated emergency response.

The delay in departure from Lisbon and the subsequent emergency landing caused a ripple effect on airport operations, temporarily halting runway 27L landings and drawing attention on social media and flight tracking platforms. The incident underscores the importance of rigorous aircraft maintenance and emergency preparedness, as well as the professionalism of flight crews and ground teams in handling in-flight technical difficulties safely.

British Airways and Heathrow Airport have not released detailed statements yet but confirmed the safe landing and ongoing investigation into the nose gear servo malfunction. Passengers on board were reported safe, and the aircraft is undergoing technical assessment to determine the cause and necessary repairs. This event adds to a series of operational challenges faced by the airline in recent months, highlighting the critical role of safety protocols in commercial aviation.

Abu Dhabi has achieved a major milestone in urban transportation by successfully conducting its first test flight of a flying taxi at Al Bateen Executive Airport, signaling the emirate’s rapid progress toward launching commercial air taxi services by early 2026. The test was carried out in partnership between US-based Archer Aviation and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (Adio), utilizing Archer’s fully electric, driverless Midnight eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft.

This aircraft is designed to carry four passengers and a pilot, reach speeds up to 241 km/h, and cover distances of about 150 km, making it ideal for short urban commutes such as airport-to-downtown routes.

The test flight is part of a broader strategy to establish Abu Dhabi as a regional leader in advanced air mobility. The initiative extends beyond simply operating air taxis; it aims to develop a comprehensive aviation ecosystem.

This includes pilot training, maintenance and repair operations (MROs), talent development, and manufacturing, with plans for Archer to set up a production facility in Al Ain that could eventually export aircraft across the region. There are also collaborations with local universities to create specialized curricula and short diploma programs, ensuring a skilled workforce for the sector’s future needs.

The ongoing testing phase will continue through the harsh UAE summer, focusing on the aircraft’s performance in extreme heat, humidity, and dust—conditions critical for ensuring reliability and safety in the local environment. According to officials, the tests are structured not just for demonstration but for commercial readiness, with the goal of integrating the air taxi service seamlessly into Abu Dhabi’s transportation infrastructure.

The project also includes the development of vertiports, with the first dual-use heliport expected to be operational at Mina Zayed Cruise Terminal by the end of 2025, close to major city landmarks. When commercial operations begin, customers will be able to book rides via a smartphone app, similar to current ride-hailing services, with pricing anticipated to be competitive with premium ride-sharing options—previous estimates suggest inner-city trips could cost around Dh300 to Dh350.

Archer Aviation and Abu Dhabi authorities emphasize that the service is intended for the general public, not just luxury travelers, and as the network expands, costs are expected to decrease, making flying taxis a practical daily transport option. Manufacturing is set to begin in 2027, with ambitions to export the technology regionally. This achievement places Abu Dhabi at the forefront of the global race to deploy sustainable, efficient, and futuristic urban air mobility solutions

The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) is advancing a comprehensive infrastructure development program to expand and modernize the country’s aviation network, focusing on new airports in Mirpur (Azad Kashmir), Dera Ismail Khan, and Hyderabad, alongside the reconstruction and expansion of Sukkur Airport. These projects aim to enhance regional connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and address long-standing accessibility challenges in underserved areas.

The feasibility report for the Mirpur Airport is in its final stages, signaling imminent progress on this key project that will improve air travel options for Azad Kashmir. In Dera Ismail Khan, land acquisition is actively underway, with authorities emphasizing that the new airport will resolve persistent connectivity issues affecting southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and neighboring regions. The strategic location of Sukkur Airport has prompted plans for its reconstruction and the development of a new terminal, intended to transform it into a regional aviation hub serving northern Sindh and adjacent areas.

At Hyderabad Airport, the government has directed the Pakistan Airports Authority to initiate commercial flight operations. In parallel, plans are moving forward to establish an aviation training school at Hyderabad, designed to boost technical education and professional skills development within the aviation sector, supporting workforce capacity building.

These infrastructure initiatives are part of a broader modernization effort by the PAA, which also includes the recent launch of an e-gates implementation project at major international airports in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. This project, expected to be completed within 24 months, will introduce automated passenger processing systems aligned with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, enhancing security and passenger experience.

Additionally, approvals have been granted for the construction of two new international airports in Sukkur and Muzaffarabad, with land acquisition and development activities underway. These airports are projected to be completed within five years, representing a significant investment in Pakistan’s aviation infrastructure.

The PAA’s ongoing runway upgrades, such as the 53% completion of the Runway 07L/25R upgrade at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport as of May 2025, further demonstrate the authority’s commitment to enhancing airport capacity and safety.

Collectively, these projects reflect Pakistan’s strategic vision to modernize its aviation facilities, improve regional and international connectivity, foster economic development, and create employment opportunities in underdeveloped regions. The involvement of international consultants and adherence to global standards underscore the commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure and services.

For the first time in years, UAE residents can enjoy affordable last-minute summer getaways, with airfares dropping to their lowest levels since before the pandemic. Traditionally, July and August see a surge in ticket prices, but this year, connecting economy flights from Dubai to London are available for as little as Dh1,300—a significant decrease from last year’s Dh2,500 for similar routes.

Travellers departing from Abu Dhabi are finding even better deals. For example, flights to Mumbai are currently listed at Dh708 for travel between July 15 and 31, making Abu Dhabi an attractive starting point for budget-conscious holidaymakers.

“We are seeing a much more manageable increase in airfares this July,” said Rashid Abbas, Managing Director at Arooha Travels. “Some fares to CIS and Indian destinations have dropped to between Dh610 and Dh800. These prices are certainly more attractive than what travellers have had to contend with in the last couple of years.”

Are these the lowest fares since 2020? According to Abbas, “Yes and no. While some destinations are seeing dramatic drops, others especially certain European cities still command higher prices, between Dh2,500 and Dh3,800 for last-minute bookings. However, these are still well below the peaks of 2022, when airfares soared to unprecedented levels.”

Direct flights to major European cities such as London, Stockholm, Lisbon, and Barcelona remain in the Dh2,500–Dh3,000 range. Yet, budget carriers are offering competitive alternatives; for example, Dubai to Paris on a low-cost airline is available for Dh2,815, and flights to Berlin can be found for Dh1,860.

Here are some of the best last-minute deals for travel between July 15 and 31:

From Dubai:

• Dubai to Tbilisi on flydubai: Dh1,300
• Dubai to Istanbul on AJet: Dh653
• Dubai to Chisinau, Moldova on Wizz Air Abu Dhabi: Dh538
• Dubai to Cairo on Air Arabia Express: Dh1,430
• Dubai to New York on United Airlines: Dh2,945

From Abu Dhabi:

• Abu Dhabi to Yerevan on Etihad: Dh618
• Abu Dhabi to Manama on Etihad: Dh415
• Abu Dhabi to Muscat on Etihad: Dh485
• Abu Dhabi to Istanbul on Etihad: Dh1,006
• Abu Dhabi to Athens on Etihad: Dh1,635

From Sharjah:

• Sharjah to Istanbul on AJet: Dh706
• Sharjah to Doha on Qatar Airways: Dh755
• Sharjah to Tbilisi on Air Arabia: Dh1,432

From Ras Al Khaimah:

• RAK to Mumbai on IndiGo: Dh742
• RAK to Istanbul on AJet: Dh653

Travel agents attribute the drop in fares to changing travel habits among UAE residents. “Couples and singles often travel home during off-peak months to save on fares,” said Sapna Aidasani, Head of Marketing at Pluto Travels. She noted a trend toward shorter trips, typically lasting one to two weeks, rather than extended summer holidays. Many are also exploring destinations closer to the UAE, such as Azerbaijan or Schengen countries, and Africa is gaining popularity.

Corporate leave policies also play a role, with most employees preferring to split their travel into multiple shorter trips throughout the year. Dubai residents usually return by early August and then plan additional holidays for winter or Diwali, breaking up their summer travel.

With schools closed and temperatures soaring, residents are encouraged to keep up with the latest events, deals, and safety tips through Summer Vibes in collaboration with Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS). There’s plenty happening across the Emirates this July and August, making it easier than ever to plan a memorable and affordable summer.

A routine international journey turned into a 42-hour test of patience for passengers on Qatar Airways Flight QR579, after a technical fault in Delhi triggered a domino effect of missed connections, late arrivals, and what travelers describe as “zero accountability” from the airline and regulators.

The trouble began on November 22, 2024, when Flight QR579 from Delhi to Doha was delayed by more than five hours due to technical issues, departing at 9:10 AM instead of the scheduled 3:40 AM. This delay caused passengers to miss their connecting flight to Cape Town, leaving them stranded in Doha. Rather than providing immediate rebooking, Qatar Airways rescheduled the group for a flight the following day, ultimately delivering them to Cape Town at 8 PM on November 23 over 26 hours behind schedule.

The extended delay upended travel plans and, according to one passenger, created a safety risk due to the late-night arrival. “We endured 42 hours of fatigue, disrupted plans, and a complete lack of accountability from the airline,” the passenger wrote in a widely shared online post. The airline’s response offering $200 non-refundable vouchers per person, valid only for future bookings was met with frustration. 

Multiple attempts to escalate the matter with Qatar Airways’ senior customer service staff yielded no further compensation, and a formal complaint to the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) was dismissed. The QCAA argued it could not intervene since Doha was only a transit point, a stance passengers say contradicts the Montreal Convention, which sets global standards for airline liability in cases of delay.

The Montreal Convention allows international travelers to claim damages for delays, including reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses up to a capped amount, regardless of where the delay occurs. However, as this case illustrates, enforcement can be inconsistent. “QCAA refuses to enforce it,” the passenger noted, after their claim was rejected. With few options left, the traveler is now considering whether to pursue the matter with India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) or in consumer court, though they question whether the effort will be worthwhile.

The story has resonated with many, drawing responses from others who report similar experiences with international flight delays and minimal accountability. As one commenter put it, “It’s when things go wrong airlines really show their true colours, and in this case Qatar were very poor”. With regulatory protections like the Montreal Convention often difficult to enforce, the burden of seeking redress continues to fall on the passengers themselves.