In the bustling city-state of Singapore, a new wellness attraction is set to open its doors in 2030, promising to bring a much-needed respite from the fast-paced, stressful life that many residents lead. This facility, located in Marina South, is not just another spa or wellness center; it's a bold attempt to 'democratize wellness' and make it accessible and affordable for all Singaporeans, not just the privileged few. The project, led by former Cabinet minister Mah Bow Tan, is a testament to the city's commitment to creating a 'liveable city' where people can feel truly connected and rejuvenated.
What makes this project particularly fascinating is the way it challenges the traditional notion of wellness as an escape from the city. Instead, it aims to bring wellness right into the heart of the city, making it an integral part of daily life. This is a significant shift from the outdated idea that one needs to escape the city to find relaxation and recovery. In my opinion, this is a bold and innovative approach that could revolutionize the way we think about wellness in urban environments.
The facility, designed by DP Architects and Therme Group's in-house architects, will span over 720,000 sq ft, equivalent to over nine football fields. It will feature over 20 pools and water features, as well as over 70 wellness treatment rooms. The aim is to provide a wide range of experiences, from thermal pools and saunas to water slides and wellness treatments, all under one roof. This diversity is crucial in creating a holistic wellness experience that caters to different needs and preferences.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this project is the focus on making it accessible and affordable. Mah Bow Tan, who now chairs Therme Group Asia and Therme Singapore, has emphasized that the ticket prices will be 'more than affordable', benchmarked against similar attractions such as spas and water parks. This is a significant departure from the expensive, exclusive nature of many wellness facilities, and it's a move that could make a real difference in the lives of everyday Singaporeans.
However, the project is not without its challenges. Finding land in land-scarce Singapore was a significant hurdle, and the opportunity to develop the wellness attraction in Marina South came when the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) called for a tender. Therme Group was awarded the tender in November 2025, and the company aims to hire about 400 people to run the facility, including a 'core group' of Singaporean managers and supervisory staff.
The project also has a strong focus on skills development and employment opportunities. Therme Group has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Institute of Technical Education and Republic Polytechnic to develop skills and provide employment opportunities for their graduates in the wellness sector. This is a crucial aspect of the project, as it not only creates jobs but also contributes to the development of a skilled workforce in the wellness industry.
In my view, this project is a significant step forward in the democratization of wellness. It challenges the notion that wellness is an exclusive, expensive luxury and instead promotes it as a fundamental part of daily life. The focus on accessibility and affordability, combined with the emphasis on skills development and employment, makes this project a truly transformative initiative.
However, the project is not without its controversies. A 2025 New York Times investigation reported that Therme Group's finances appeared to be 'shaky' and that it exaggerated its track record in securing a deal for a wellness facility in Ontario, Canada. These allegations raise important questions about the integrity of the project and the credibility of the company behind it. Nevertheless, Mah Bow Tan has emphasized that the Canadian authorities' validation of the project was 'very clear and very emphatic', and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has also reiterated the process in Singapore for the tender bid.
In conclusion, the new wellness attraction in Marina South is a significant and innovative project that has the potential to revolutionize the way we think about wellness in urban environments. It challenges the notion that wellness is an exclusive, expensive luxury and promotes it as a fundamental part of daily life. The focus on accessibility and affordability, combined with the emphasis on skills development and employment, makes this project a truly transformative initiative. As the city continues to evolve, this project will undoubtedly be a 'jewel in the crown' of Marina Bay, contributing to the transformation of the Southern coast and the overall liveability of the city.
