Mustafa Centre

Mustafa Centre is a very large department store in Little India, Singapore. It sells almost everything, from rice, spices and snacks to electronics, luggage, watches, perfume and gold jewellery. It started in 1971 and has grown into one of the best-known shops in the city. Entry is free, and many visitors come just to look around.

This guide covers what to buy, how to get there and what to see nearby.

What is Mustafa Centre and why visit

Mustafa is a favourite with locals, expats and tourists alike. People come for the huge range of products and the good value. It is a useful place to stock up on travel items, snacks and gifts in one trip.

The store is known for opening 24 hours a day. Opening hours can change, so check the official Mustafa Centre website before you go. A visit here is also a chance to see everyday life in Little India.

What to buy at Mustafa Centre

• Spices and groceries: A wide range of spices, rice, lentils, tea and snacks from South Asia and beyond.
• Electronics: Phones, cameras, chargers, adaptors and small appliances.
• Luggage and travel items: Suitcases, bags and travel accessories.
• Gold jewellery: A large jewellery section, popular with families buying gold.
• Perfume and cosmetics: Many well-known brands under one roof.
• Household goods: Everyday clothes, kitchen items and home products.

Our guides to electronics and gadgets and souvenirs and gifts have more shopping ideas. You can also see our list of top attractions in Singapore.

How to get to Mustafa Centre

Mustafa Centre is on Syed Alwi Road in Little India. The nearest MRT station is Farrer Park on the North East Line, a few minutes' walk away. You can also walk from Little India MRT station along Serangoon Road. If you are new to the trains, read our guide on how to use the MRT in Singapore.

Tips for visiting Mustafa Centre

• Give yourself time. The store is large, and the layout takes a while to learn.
• Ask staff for help if you cannot find a section.
• Bring your passport if you plan to buy expensive items. You may be able to claim a tourist tax refund.
• Weekdays are usually calmer than weekends.
• Keep your receipts in case you need to check or return an item.

To learn more about claiming back sales tax, see our guide to tax-free shopping.

Food and things to do nearby

Little India is one of the best places in Singapore for Indian food. Try Ananda Bhavan or Saravanaa Bhavan for South Indian vegetarian dishes. Bismillah Biryani is a good pick for biryani. Tekka Centre is a large hawker centre with many stalls. Read our guide to Indian food for dishes to try.

Walk around Little India to see colourful shophouses, flower garland stalls and spice shops. Visit the Indian Heritage Centre to learn about the Indian community in Singapore. The Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is a working Hindu temple. Remove your shoes before entering, dress modestly and be quiet inside.

Nearby hotels include The Vagabond Club and Parkroyal on Kitchener Road. See more hotels in Little India and Jalan Besar.

FAQs about Mustafa Centre

Is Mustafa Centre open 24 hours?

Yes. It went back to opening 24 hours a day in 2024, after shorter hours during the pandemic. Hours can change, so check the official website before you go.

What is Mustafa Centre famous for?

It is famous for selling a huge range of goods under one roof, from spices and groceries to electronics and gold.

What is the nearest MRT station to Mustafa Centre?

Farrer Park MRT station on the North East Line is the closest.

Can tourists get a tax refund at Mustafa Centre?

Tourists may be able to claim a refund on eligible purchases. Ask at the store and bring your passport.