Pet Friendly Malls & Neighborhood in Singapore: A Practical Guide for Pet Owners

Pet-friendly malls are becoming a quiet lifesaver for Singapore pet owners who want to run errands, grab a meal or meet friends without leaving their dogs at home. But “pet-friendly” can mean very different things from one mall to another, from fully air-conditioned complexes that only allow small pets in enclosed strollers, to open-air lifestyle hubs with off‑leash dog gardens and outdoor dining.

Singapore has a growing list of pet-friendly malls, but most still require pets to be fully contained in a stroller or carrier and do not allow free walking on the floor in indoor common areas. The information below focuses on air-conditioned or partly air-conditioned malls where pets in strollers are generally allowed in the mall’s common areas, with access to individual shops subject to each tenant’s own rules.

"Fully Air-Conditioned Shopping Malls (Stroller/Carrier Usually Required)

In these malls, pets are allowed only if they are totally enclosed in a stroller or carrier in public areas. They are not allowed to walk on a leash ("no paws on ground")."

1. VivoCity (Harbour Front) VivoCity has a lively outdoor promenades and rooftop

spaces where dogs in carriers or strollers can comfortably join their humans for strolls and alfresco dining.

Vibe: VivoCity is one of Singapore’s best-known pet-friendly mega malls, with wide indoor walkways and outdoor waterfront areas.

Rules: Stroller/carrier is required indoors. Well-behaved leashed pets are permitted on rooftop garden and outdoor boardwalk. You must use designated "Pet Zones" or lifts.

2. 313@Somerset (Orchard Road) A vibrant, multi-level fashion and lifestyle hub

located directly above Somerset MRT. It is one of the most pet welcoming malls in the heart of the Orchard shopping belt. Vibe: High energy., youthful scene. Fashion mall

Rules: Stroller/carrier must be worn in indoor common areas.

3. Great World (River Valley) offers a more laid-back neighbourhood feel, with

quieter walkways and pet-related tenants nearby that make it convenient for short errands, coffee breaks, and relaxed visits with dogs in strollers Vibe: Contemporary, upmarket mall; location near the Singapore River.

Rules: Pets are required to be in strollers/carriers in the indoor common areas. Leashed dog walking is permitted on the outdoor riverside path.

4. Tiong Bahru Plaza has a charming, heritage meets hipster energy, so the mall and

its surroundings work well as a starting point for café hopping and strolling with pets, especially around the low-rise estate and alfresco nooks.

Vibe: Relaxed, local, and community-focused. It is a convenient "stop-and-go" mall for residents running errands or heading to the nearby park.

Rules: Pets are to be in strollers/carriers. Typically not to be brought to stores of restaurants and shops unless specified.

5. NEX (Serangoon) has a busy, heartland vibe and is popular with pawrents, thanks to

nearby pet services and retail, making it a practical everyday destination for grooming runs, food top-ups, and quick meals.

Vibe: Hyped suburban mall with an exclusive K9 Park on the roof.

Rules: Only Pet Safari and the Rooftop Park are accessible to pets. Only Pet Lifts 1 and 2 are available for the use of pets, and pets are not permitted inside other areas of this mall.

6. Paya Lebar Quarter (PLQ) feels modern and open, with its plaza-style outdoor

areas and office crowd creating a casual, after-work hangout atmosphere where pets in strollers can chill while owners grab coffee or dinner.

Vibe: Modern office/retail complex and a large outdoor park side area.

Rules: Indoor mall: Guide-dog friendly only, not pet friendly. Whereas the outdoor spaces such as PLQ Plaza and PLQ Parkside are pet-friendly.

7. Jem (Jurong East) has a bustling suburban energy, serving pawrents as

a convenient hub near transport links, with surrounding malls and open-air connectors making it easy to combine errands, dining, and doggy outings. Vibe: Modern, bustling, and high-energy. It’s a "utility" mall where you go to get things done, rather than a slow lifestyle stroll.

Rules: Guide-dog friendly, not pet-friendly

Important pet-in-stroller terms and conditions

Across these malls, common rules include:

• Pets must remain inside a secure stroller, pram, or carrier at all times in indoor, air-conditioned common areas; no walking on the floor. 

• Owners must clean up after their pets and ensure good behaviour (no excessive barking, aggression, or soiling of premises). 

• Access into individual shops, supermarkets, and F&B outlets is not guaranteed even if the mall is pet-friendly; always ask staff before entering. 
  

Because mall policies can change and some have very specific maps or zones for pets, it is always best to check the mall’s official website or customer service, and look out for signage at entrances and lifts before you start strolling with your pet

"Semi-Aircon / Naturally Ventilated Malls (Leash-Friendly). Such malls embrace “open-air” or “green” architecture, which permits more airflow and leeway for dogs on leash."

1. One Holland Village (Holland Village) One Holland Village is one of Singapore’s

most pet-friendly shopping destinations, offering a charming village-style layout with wide, easy walking paths, relaxed open spaces, and plenty of pet-friendly cafés where you can unwind with your fur kids.

Vibes: Well designed open areas, relaxed outdoor dining spots, and a generally welcoming atmosphere make it feel like a modern community nook where pet parents can hang out, stroll, and linger with their pups rather than just “pass through.”

Rules: Extremely Pet-Friendly. Allows leashed pets to walk around most communal areas. Offers pet-exclusive elevators, water spout systems, pet hooks, as well as a pet play area on Level 2.

2. The Star Vista (Buona Vista) The Star Vista in Buona Vista is a unique, naturally

cooled shopping mall known for its open-concept architecture and breezy atmosphere. It is widely considered one of the most pet-welcoming malls in the area due to its spacious outdoor layout.

Vibe: A "naturally cooled" mall that lacks central air-conditioning in public areas, so everything is quite breezy.

Rules: Pets on leash are allowed to walk in the open corridors. Most of the F& B establishments have alfresco dining that allows pets.

3. Tanglin Mall (Orchard) An upscale, community-focused lifestyle mall located at the

edge of the Orchard Road shopping district. It is widely recognized as one of Singapore's most pet-friendly indoor spaces, particularly catering to the residents and expats in the Tanglin and Nassim areas.

Vibe: Chill community-driven mall.

Rules: Known for the Pet Garden, an off-leash play area. Pets allowed leashed in outer areas.

4. SCAPE (Orchard) pet-inclusive youth hub in the heart of Orchard Road. Following its

major revamp in late 2025, it has shifted from a traditional retail space to a community focused destination that actively welcomes pet owners. Vibe: Young people friendly spot with massive outdoor plazas.

Rules: Reopened in 2025. Pets allowed. The patio areas have outdoor seating where leashed, permitted pets are welcome.

5. Valley Point (River Valley) a compact and relaxed neighborhood mall in the River

Valley area. It is well regarded by the local community as a convenient, less crowded spot for running errands or grabbing a quiet bite with a pet in tow. Vibe: It has a calm and functional vibe, making it much less overwhelming for pets compared to the larger Orchard Road malls.

Rules: It is known for a large outdoor “pet parking lot” and a rooftop “Sky Park” where pets are able to exercise.

"Outdoor/Riverside Destination Malls. These are not traditional "box" malls, but rather lifestyle precincts in which the "mall" becomes an extension of the outdoors.

1. CQ @ Clarke Quay A historic riverside landmark transformed into a vibrant day-to-

night lifestyle destination with heritage shophouses and dining. Vibe: Iconic historical area along the riverfront, recently refurbished with a strong pet emphasis.

Rules: Leash Friendly. Dogs are allowed on a leash in this park and are even allowed on a leash

New Amenities: Features pet hydrating stations, trash receptacles, "pet-parking" areas, as well as the Fort Canine Swimming Club. Many restaurants, such as Zorba the Greek or Chapters by Drinks & Co, have "pet-friendly" logos.

2. Northshore Plaza I & II (Punggol) Northshore Plaza I and Northshore Plaza II serve

as a unique seafront community hub designed with an open air, garden themed layout that seamlessly connects to the Punggol Park Connector. Vibe: Harbour Front mall with seafront, with Park Connector.

Rules: Leashed pets are allowed in outdoor areas and trails that lead to pet-friendly stores.

3. Waterway Point (Punggol) A major family-oriented waterfront mall in Punggol,

uniquely positioned right next to the scenic Punggol Waterway Park. Vibe: Lively and family-centric with a strong focus on community and outdoor connectivity; it offers a refreshing mix of retail therapy and nature-side strolls.

Rules: Provides pet walkways where leashed pets can access The Pet Safari. Mostly all areas are stroller/carrier-friendly, except for the outdoor riverside area which is ideal for walks.

"Quick Tip: Even in dog-friendly shopping malls, each store may have its personal policy. Keep an eye out for "Pets Welcome" stickers or ask the staff before entering the store!"

Most malls in Singapore do not publish a full pet policy for their malls or official list of individual pet‑friendly stores, and many leave it to each tenant to decide. Policies can also change, so it is always necessary to check signage at the shop entrance or ask staff directly. What is generally allowed, In almost all “pet‑friendly” malls, pets in fully enclosed strollers or carriers may move through common areas, but store entry is not automatically included. 

Examples of commonly pet‑friendly outlets Pet shops & grooming – e.g. The Pet Safari at VivoCity, Pet Lovers Centre branches, and similar pet retailers usually allow pets inside when in a stroller/carrier. 

• Pet‑themed cafés / Plain Meredith Cafe at One Holland Village and grocers – e.g. Surrey Hills Grocer at VivoCity and is highlighted as pet‑friendly, with specific pet zones and indoor areas where pets in strollers are welcome. 

• Some lifestyle / outdoor brands and selected cafés with alfresco zones may accept pets in strollers, especially in outdoor or semi‑outdoor sections; this is always on a case‑by‑case basis. 

Practical guidance for each mall

• VivoCity, Great World, Pasir Ris Mall, Star Vista, One Holland Village, Tanglin Mall, The Cathay and similar malls: pets in strollers are generally allowed in common indoor areas, but store access depends on each tenant. 

• Essential for fully indoor malls (Tiong Bahru Plaza). Ensure it is fully zippable as some malls require pets to be "completely enclosed"

• Community feedback from pawrent groups (including Dogs Singapore) confirms that some stores welcome strollers while others strictly refuse, even within the same mall, so prior positive experiences are not a guarantee. 

From January 1, 2025, Singapore's SFA rule change allows cafés and restaurants to let customers dine outdoors with pets in unenclosed Outdoor Refreshment Areas (ORAs) without needing a separate pet café licence, as long as no pet food is served. Pets remain banned from hawker centres, indoor areas, and halal premises.

"Pet friendly Neighborhood: Outdoor Riverside Alfresco Dining/Cafe. Robertson Quay is arguably Singapore’s most pet-friendly neighborhood, with a long riverside stretch of cafes that almost all welcome dogs in their alfresco (outdoor) areas."

Here are the top rated pet-friendly cafes at Robertson Quay, including their vibes and specific rules:

1. Good Boy George

Named after a local Golden Retriever, this bistro is a community project focusing on "good food, good drinks, and good vibes." It serves hearty Australian/European-style brunch like Duck Fat Rosti and Prawn Pasta.

Vibe: Relaxed, "Bohemian chic," and incredibly welcoming. It feels more like a community center where neighbors mingle than a stiff cafe.

Rules: Pets are welcome in the spacious alfresco area. It is one of the most inclusive spots in the area; they often provide water bowls without being asked.

2. BOTANY@ Robertson Quay

A botanical-themed restaurant offering a mix of East-West fusion, including vegan and gluten-free options. Famous for its aesthetic white-and-green decor.

Vibe: Calm, serene, and aesthetic. Perfect for a quiet morning coffee or a healthy weekend brunch.

Rules: Pets are allowed in the outdoor riverside seating area. It’s highly recommended to make a reservation for an outdoor bench if you are bringing your dog.

3. Kith Cafe (Robertson Quay)

One of the original pioneers of the Robertson Quay cafe scene, known for strong coffee and reliable big breakfasts.

Vibe: Bustling and high-energy, especially on weekend mornings. It's a prime spot for "people-watching" and "dog-watching" right by the river.

Rules: Pets are restricted to the outdoor seating. The staff is very experienced with dogs and can often whip up dog-safe orders (like plain scrambled eggs) upon request.

4. Toby’s Estate

A world-renowned Australian specialty coffee roaster. This is the place for serious coffee enthusiasts.

Vibe: Industrial-chic and professional yet cozy. It can get very crowded, so it’s better for well-socialized dogs who don’t mind tight spaces.

Rules: Leashed pets are welcome in the outdoor riverside seating. Water bowls are typically available for furry guests.

5. Carrotsticks and Cravings

An Aussie-inspired healthy cafe specializing in superfood bowls, smashed avocado toast, and keto-friendly treats.

Vibe: Bright, breezy, and coastal. It feels like a slice of Byron Bay in Singapore.

Rules: Very pet-friendly alfresco area with plenty of shade. The staff are known to be very attentive to pets and will provide water bowls.

6. Super Loco

A vibrant Mexican cocina and bar serving tacos, elotes, and margaritas.

Vibe: Festive, colorful, and loud. Great for a "doggy date night" or a lively brunch with friends. Rules: Pets are welcome at the outdoor tables. It is very common to see multiple dogs here during their weekend brunch hours (Lucha Loco brunch).

7. Common Man Coffee Roasters (Martin Road)

Award-winning coffee and high-quality brunch dishes like the "Common Man Full Veggie Breakfast."

Vibe: Sophisticated and trendy. It’s a bit further back from the river (on Martin Road) but stays very busy.

Rules: Pets are allowed at the limited outdoor seating area along the sidewalk. Since space is tight, it’s best for smaller or calmer dogs.

General Rules for Robertson Quay:

• Leash Policy: Pets must be kept on a leash at all times.

• Paws on Ground: According to NEA regulations, pets are generally not allowed on chairs or tables; they should stay on the ground.

• Water: Most cafes provide water, but on hot days, it’s always best to bring your own portable bowl just in case.

• Reservations: Always mention you are bringing a dog when booking so they can secure an alfresco table for you.

• Cinemas, many beauty/spa outlets, and some fashion or F&B brands typically do not allow pets inside even if they are in a stroller. 

Overall, for pet-friendly malls in Singapore, most still lack a clear and consistent policy on pets in strollers. As a result, pet owners often face uncertainty and must individually check with each mall or rely on ad-hoc security decisions at the entrance.

Disclaimer:

This is an AI-generated blog for informational or illustration purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy and quality, all information should be reviewed and used at your discretion. All information is subject to change without prior notice. Please independently verify any critical details. We’d love to hear your feedback and any updates.

*Last update. 2 Jan 2026 - PLQ, Rules: Indoor mall for guide-dog friendly only. - Jem, Rules: Indoor mall for guide-dog friendly only