There's a wide range of clubs and societies in Singapore catering to every kind of expat. There are various options available to expats looking for sports, social, cultural and recreational clubs in Singapore, as well as societies organised by nationality. For many expats, these social groups become a sort of home away from home. New arrivals can expect to live a busy social life.

Club membership in Singapore

Friends celebrating by Cottonbro Studio from Pexels

American Women's Association of Singapore (AWA)

Open to women of all nationalities, AWA is a volunteer-run social organisation whose mission is to bring together women with common interests through activities and events. It organises social and special interest activities and events, as well as sports and tours.

Website: www.awasingapore.org

American Association of Singapore (AAS)

As the oldest American organisation in Singapore with more than a century of history, AAS is focused on enhancing the experience of expats and other community members by bringing them together through social events and activities. Every two months, it publishes Living in Singapore, a magazine about travel, food and dining, and events in the city-state.

Website: www.aasingapore.com

The Australian and New Zealand Association (ANZA)

ANZA offers support to its members by hosting events and exercising social responsibility. Social meet-ups, charity work, sporting events and more make up the society's diverse calendar. Its members hail from all over the world.

Website: www.anza.org.sg

The British Association of Singapore (BA)

All nationalities are welcome at the BA, and can enjoy access to various activities and special interest groups. There are also opportunities to take part in fundraising and volunteering for local charities.

Website: www.britishassociation.org.sg

PrimeTime

Founded in 1997, the PrimeTime community is a network for women seeking to expand their professional and social circles. This active club offers a variety of activities, including speakers, discussion groups, community outreach opportunities, and social gatherings.

Website: www.primetime.org.sg

Singapore International Foundation (SIF)

This non-profit organisation focuses on building relationships between expats and local Singaporeans through dialogue and exchange programmes. From sending volunteers into developing communities to effect positive change to enriching lives through events and showcases, SIF's ultimate mission is to build a better world.

Website: www.sif.org.sg

The Singapore Recreation Club (SRC)

Founded in 1883, the SRC is one of Singapore's oldest social clubs and has a strong sporting tradition. Facilities include a ballroom, bowling alley, tennis courts, pools and a number of eateries.

Website: www.src.org.sg

The Tanglin Club

Another of Singapore's established social clubs, this inclusive club has a diverse membership, with over 4,000 members from more than 70 countries. Facilities are excellent, with numerous restaurants and bars on the premises, and the events calendar is lively.

Website: www.tanglinclub.org.sg

What advice do expats give about meeting people in Singapore?

"When we first moved here, I met many people through my kid's school. Later, I made friends by volunteering at a local charity and through work. I am a fiction writer, and joining a writers group has put me in touch with many other authors...

"The best way to make local friends is through a common interest. Either work, volunteering, or joining a ‘hobby’ group like a book club or walking club."

Karien shares her experience as a Dutch expat living in Singapore in her interview.

Further reading

►See Local Culture in Singapore for more information on how to adjust to life on the Little Red Dot

Photo credit: Friends celebrating by Cottonbro Studio from Pexels.

Are you an expat living in Singapore?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Singapore. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.