Marina Bay Sands Expansion: Singapore’s Iconic Skyline Is Getting a New $8 Billion Tower

Singapore’s famous Marina Bay Sands is getting a major upgrade. A brand-new skyscraper is being added to the skyline in an $8 billion expansion, and it’s being designed by the original architect, Moshe Safdie. But this isn’t just another tower — it’s meant to stand out and fit in with the iconic look Singaporeans have come to love.

Here’s what you need to know about the city’s bold new project.

A New Tower for a Beloved Landmark

Since it opened in 2011, Marina Bay Sands has become one of Asia’s most recognizable landmarks. Its three towers are connected by a rooftop skybridge shaped like a ship, complete with an infinity pool that’s become a social media favorite.

Now, a fourth tower is on the way. It won’t be attached to the original three, but it will sit close by — and it’s designed to complement, not copy, what’s already there.

“The people of Singapore love this,” said architect Moshe Safdie, who’s now 87. “We wanted the new tower to have its own identity, but still feel like part of the family.”

Why the New Tower Matters

This expansion shows just how successful Marina Bay Sands has been. In 2023 alone, the resort brought in 38 million visitors and generated over $1.7 billion in business spending. That’s thanks to its mix of a luxury hotel, high-end shops, convention space, and one of Singapore’s only two casinos.

The new 55-story tower will add 570 more hotel suites, even more luxury shopping, and extra space for meetings and events. There’s also a large entertainment venue in the works — a 15,000-seat arena for concerts and shows.

Not Just a Copy-Paste Job

While some might expect the new tower to simply extend the existing skybridge, Safdie decided against it.

“It just didn’t feel right,” he said. “We didn’t want more of the same. We wanted to create something new.”

Originally, the arena was planned to be on the far side of the new tower. But during the pandemic delays, Safdie reworked the design, placing the venue between the old and new buildings instead. This not only opened up more space but also improved how people will move through the area.

The tower’s rooftop, called the “Skyloop,” will echo the boat-shaped design of the original skybridge. It will include restaurants, gardens, cabanas, and another infinity pool.

Mixed Feelings from the Public

Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong helped kick off construction with a ceremonial groundbreaking this week. He praised the project, saying the tower “will refresh our skyline.”

But not everyone is convinced. Some Singaporeans took to Reddit to complain that the new tower looks “out of place” and compared it to a “giant dehumidifier.” Others joked it looked like a “fourth person awkwardly joining a photo.”

Still, many believe the new tower will eventually fit right in.

“When it’s all said and done, people will feel it’s always been there,” Safdie said. “They’ll love it as much as the original — maybe even more.”

What’s Next

Construction is now underway, and in a few years, Singapore’s skyline will look a little different — but still familiar. With its blend of bold design and thoughtful planning, the Marina Bay Sands expansion is more than just a new building. It’s a symbol of Singapore’s growth, ambition, and love for smart, beautiful architecture.