Source: Singapore Changi Airport.
Jewel Changi Airport Trustee (JCAT), a collaboration between Changi Airport Group (CAG) and CapitaMalls Asia (the shopping mall branch of CapitaLand), has initiated the construction of Jewel Changi Airport. This mixed-use development, situated in front of Terminal 1 (T1), will feature attractions, retail spaces, a hotel, and airport operational facilities.
Strategically placed at the airport’s core, Jewel aims to be a premier lifestyle destination enhancing Changi Airport’s global standing and solidifying Singapore’s attractiveness as a layover spot for travelers. Combining retail brands, unique dining, indoor gardens, and leisure activities, Jewel aspires to be a unique lifestyle destination offering diverse experiences under one roof.
This groundbreaking marks the simultaneous expansion of T1 alongside the Jewel complex. Redevelopment of this 3.5-hectare site, previously an outdoor parking area, will increase T1’s passenger capacity to 24 million annually.
Designed by a team led by renowned architect Moshe Safdie (Safdie Architects), along with Benoy and local firm RSP, Jewel will seamlessly blend lush greenery with attractions and amenities within its structure. This five-story complex (with five basement levels) will encompass 134,000 square meters and is expected to be completed by the end of 2018.
Reflecting Singapore’s Garden City reputation, Jewel will boast one of the most extensive indoor plant displays, dedicating 22,000 square meters to landscaping. The Forest Valley, a key attraction, will be a five-story indoor garden teeming with trees, plants, ferns, and shrubs. Visitors can enjoy nature’s tranquility amidst lush greenery and waterfalls in an air-conditioned environment, even taking a hike up the valley.
Jewel’s other highlight will be the Rain Vortex, anticipated to be the world’s tallest indoor waterfall at 40 meters high. Additionally, Jewel’s top level will feature a 13,000 square meter park space, offering gardens, walking paths, playgrounds, and dining options.
Strengthening Changi Airport’s status as a transit hub, Jewel will provide facilities that enhance passenger travel experiences. An integrated multi-modal transport lounge will offer services like ticketing, boarding pass issuance, and baggage transfer for fly-cruise and fly-coach passengers, allowing Changi to capitalize on opportunities like Singapore’s growing regional cruise center role. Additionally, early check-in facilities will allow passengers to check in and drop off baggage before standard times for added convenience.
Expanding accommodation options, Jewel will house a 130-room hotel operated by YOTEL, an internationally recognized hotel brand present in Europe and the United States. This addition caters to the needs of transit passengers.
The expanded T1 Arrival Hall will seamlessly connect with Jewel’s Level 1. The Baggage Claim Hall will have increased circulation space and new baggage belts operated by an upgraded baggage handling system. T1’s Departure Hall will be revamped with self-service kiosks at check-in counters for improved efficiency and space optimization.
Currently, only Terminals 2 and 3 have direct connections to the Changi Airport Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) station. To improve inter-terminal connection and accessibility, new pedestrian links connecting T1 and Jewel to the MRT station will be constructed.
Lee Seow Hiang, CAG’s Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Jewel Changi Airport Devt (JCAD), stated: “A significant hallmark of Changi Airport’s growth over the past three decades has been its consistent adaptation and innovation. In planning the airport’s future, this principle continues to drive our strategy. Facing increasing competition, we challenged ourselves to redefine the airport experience – not merely as a flight gateway, but as a standalone travel destination."
Philip Yim, Chief Executive Officer of JCAD, emphasized: “Beyond its striking design, Jewel will be pioneering with its unique blend of attractions, retail, and airport amenities, all woven together to deliver a diverse range of experiences in a single visit. Positioned at the doorstep of the award-winning Changi Airport, it will serve as a meeting point for Singapore and the world."
*Jewel Changi Airport Trustee, responsible for managing Jewel Changi Airport Trust, is a joint venture between Changi Airport Group (CAG) and CapitaMalls Asia (CMA), the shopping center arm of CapitaLand Group. CAG holds a 51% share and unit ownership, while CMA holds the remaining 49%.
**This reflects a 35% increase compared to the 17.7 million passengers T1 handled in 2013.
***This is comparable to the combined area of the two indoor conservatories at Gardens by the Bay.
****JCAD oversees the development and property management of Jewel.
*****Jewel Changi Airport Trust, jointly owned by Changi Airport Group (CAG) and CapitaMalls Asia (CMA), the shopping mall branch of CapitaLand, is established for the collective ownership of Jewel Changi Airport. The other two joint venture companies are Jewel Changi Airport Trustee, which manages Jewel Changi Airport Trust, and Jewel Changi Airport Devt, responsible for Jewel’s development and property management. CAG holds a majority 51% unit and share ownership in the joint venture trust and companies, while CMA holds the remaining 49%.