Tourist numbers at Singapore’s National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) have stabilized following the implementation of visitor management measures, addressing previous concerns about overcrowding and safety.
Visitor Management Measures Effective
Both NUS and NTU have reported the success of measures designed to regulate footfall on their campuses. NUS students have also indicated an improved daily campus experience.
NUS stated that measures implemented over the past two years to manage visitor traffic to its Kent Ridge campus have been effective and well-received by staff, students, and visitors.
The current situation marks a significant improvement from 2024, when students experienced crowding on shuttle buses and in canteens during peak travel seasons. The influx of visitors previously led to complaints about disruptions to academic activities and safety risks due to tourists disregarding traffic rules or entering restricted areas.
NUS Implements Registration and Guided Tours
In December 2024, NUS mandated that all visitors planning to tour the campus between January 13 and February 21, 2025, must register and book a tour group slot. Visitors not accompanied by a student ambassador or docent during this period were asked to leave the campus. Approximately 400 tour slots were booked between January 13 and February 7, 2025, with 74 students trained to lead these groups. On the first day of the program, student ambassadors conducted tours for 271 tourists at University Town (UTown).
In total, 1,200 tour bookings were made during peak visitor periods in January to February and August to September in 2025. Around 150 students applied to serve as student ambassadors during the same period.
Additional measures included prioritized access for students, staff, and invited guests to UTown foodcourts and NUS’ internal shuttle bus during peak times. All buses entering UTown were required to be registered, and student associates were deployed to assist security officers at canteens and bus stops to ensure compliance. NUS plans to adjust these measures based on visitor volumes and patterns, and has informed tour operators and travel agents of the university’s guidelines and restrictions.
Positive Student Feedback and Shuttle Bus Improvements
A November NUS survey found that nine in ten students were satisfied with the internal shuttle bus experience. Ongoing enhancements to the shuttle bus service include increased frequency during peak hours, examinations, and major campus events, as well as the introduction of new routes. NUS is also collaborating with the Land Transport Authority to manage student commuting traffic during examination periods.
NTU Sees Similar Success
NTU has also seen positive results from its management measures, which include requiring travel agencies to obtain prior approval for tours. These measures have “stabilized tourist numbers over the past two years.” The university has deployed security personnel and student guides to ensure visitors remain in public areas and avoid restricted zones. Organized tours are not permitted during key university events, such as convocation.
On February 5, groups of tourists were observed arriving at UTown. Campus tours, available through Eventbrite, cost around $53, with February dates in high demand or sold out.
Student ambassadors described their tour-leading experience as challenging but meaningful, navigating language barriers and managing expectations. Student ambassadors also reported gaining a deeper understanding of the campus and strengthening their communication skills.
Students noted that the measures have allowed them to go about their daily routines with less interference. One student recalled previous issues with tourists taking food intended for students during a residential college orientation. Current canteen checks are now “done quite thoroughly,” improving the lunchtime experience.
A Year 1 student reported having “zero issue” with tourists since enrolling in August, stating that crowds in busy areas primarily consist of students.
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