Marina Bay reimagined: A new chapter in Singapore's urban legacy
The precinct is being reimagined as a dynamic, mixed-use urban node – catalysed by IOI Properties’ developments and supported by enhanced public infrastructure, green linkages, and connections to the Greater Southern Waterfront and other key corridors.
Marina Bay is transforming from Singapore’s premier financial district to a work and play address with new residential developments being built.
The development of Marina Bay from reclaimed land to Singapore's financial district is among the country's most successful urban renewal projects. The Government’s commitment to the district’s continued evolution is underscored in the Draft Master Plan 2025, which identifies Marina South as one of the areas planned for new homes in more central locations. This reflects the ongoing vision to transform Marina Bay beyond its commercial beginnings, underlining the district’s importance to Singapore’s economic future and its role in setting new standards for integrated urban living.
Its role as Singapore's Central Business District (CBD) continues to expand, with Grade A offices maintaining high occupancy despite changing work patterns. The area remains highly sought after, particularly by companies that view prime office location as the key to attracting and retaining talent. This reflects a “recentralisation trend” where employees and businesses continue to prefer the CBD, drawn by its prestigious address, connectivity and accessibility.
Couple with the Singapore Government’s plan to extend and refine the Central Business District Incentive (CBDI) and Strategic Development Incentive (SDI) schemes, there is no doubt that Marina Bay is poised for even greater transformation. These initiatives encourage mixed-use and sustainable redevelopment, ensuring the district remains a dynamic hub for business, living and leisure.
The business landscape of Marina Bay continues to evolve, drawing tech firms and government agencies seeking strategic locations near partners and talent.
While banks remain key occupiers, the mix of businesses in Marina Bay is experiencing a transformation. Tech firms, government agencies and consumer product companies are setting up their headquarters next to those of traditional financial institutions, bringing a new pulse of energy to the district.
The area’s draw for global firms goes beyond its modern offices. Its strategic location puts companies close to regulators, business partners and talent, making it an ideal base for firms expanding their Asian operations.
While office demand remains strong, Marina Bay's next phase of development looks beyond commercial activity. New residential developments, public spaces and lifestyle amenities will create a work-play-live environment that operates beyond business hours.
Beyond its prime office spaces, Marina Bay is home to a range of dining, retail, and cultural attractions, including Gardens by the Bay and Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, reinforcing its appeal.
A district in transformation
One of the key developments for Marina Bay’s transformation is IOI Properties’ multi-billion dollar investment in major projects within Marina Bay. Combining premium office spaces at IOI Central Boulevard Towers (ICBT) with luxury homes at Marina View, along with lifestyle amenities across both developments, these projects will add buzz and vibrancy to the area around the clock.
At the heart of this vision, ICBT has not only added Grade A office spaces to the CBD but also introduced new public spaces and a variety of dining and retail options.
The project’s thoughtfully designed communal areas have become natural gathering spots for both office workers and visitors. ICBT anchor tenants include tech giant Amazon and New York-based bank Morgan Stanley.
IOI Properties Singapore leading Marina Bay’s revitalisation with multi-billion dollar investments in three major projects, including IOI Central Boulevard Towers (above).
IOI’s W Residences Marina View - Singapore brings hotel-managed living to Marina Bay. With 683 residences beginning on Level 15 of the 51-story tower, integrated with W Singapore – Marina View and 50 amenities, the development is built so professionals can live, host and recover without leaving the core CBD.
W Residences Marina View - Singapore will add 683 luxury homes to the Marina Bay area.
IOI Properties’ recent acquisition of full ownership of South Beach further demonstrates the company’s strategic expansion in the downtown core. The development features Grade A offices, a 634-room JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach, as well as retail, food and beverage spaces.
Enhanced connectivity and community spaces
The transformation extends beyond individual developments. Marina Bay's integration into the extensive 120km southern coastline project will create new ways for residents, office workers and visitors to experience the district.
These developments ensure Marina Bay remains a dynamic symbol of Singapore’s progress while enhancing its appeal as a place to live, work, and play.
Plans for an 18-ha public space – equivalent to 25 football fields – around Marina One will further enhance the area's connectivity. The space will feature 2.5ha of lifestyle and dining venues, 3ha of community spaces above Marina Bay MRT station and 12ha dedicated to attractions and recreational facilities.
This way, people will be brought closer together through vibrant community hubs, reinforcing Singapore’s commitment to sustainable urban living.
Outdoor entertainment venues and sports facilities will bring new life to the urban landscape.
The upcoming wellness attraction near Marina Barrage will have therapeutic facilities and fitness spaces to position Singapore as a growing destination for health tourism.
Taking shape alongside these developments is a 4-ha wellness attraction near Marina Barrage which will further enhance the district's lifestyle offerings by 2030. Featuring therapeutic facilities and fitness spaces, it will position Singapore as a growing wellness destination.
The addition of NS Square and a Passion Wave outpost will further expand recreational offerings, while the Marina Bay Sands expansion will introduce new F&B, nightlife and entertainment options.
To improve access to these amenities, a new pedestrian bridge opening in 2028 will link Bay South Garden to Bay East Garden and the upcoming Founders' Memorial. The network will extend through waterfront promenades and park connectors, creating a seamless network of public spaces.
Beyond the waterfront, the development of Marina South will create a new residential neighbourhood with homes, shops and services. Designed as a self-sustainable community, it will bring essential amenities within walking and cycling distance for residents.
These new additions will mark another milestone in Marina Bay's transformation. With new homes, recreational facilities and community spaces, the area will continue to evolve beyond its commercial beginnings as it sets new standards for integrated urban living in Singapore.