Arab Street- a brief history

Picture depicting some regular shop lots at Arab Street

Arab Street was drawn up during 1822, in Sir Stanford Raffles’ Town Plan. Residents consisted largely of Malays and Muslims of other races( majority Arabs). Thus, Arab Street was also known as “Muslim Quarter”. Muslims saw Arab Street as the town centre. It catered to Muslim needs and thus had a Muslim culture.

Much has changed since the 1820s. The culture of Arab Street has become increasingly diluted and almost intangible. The richness of the culture in Arab Street pales in comparison to other ethnic neighbourhoods, such as Chinatown. Unlike Chinatown, Arab street today does not feature distinct cultural and historical significance.

The speciality of Arab Street has not changed that much, especially since Arab Street is still known for their textiles and materials. However, the targeted audience of Arab Street has changed significantly; the shops in Arab Street no longer cater specifically to the Muslim community. It caters to people of differing racial, age and religious demographics. Thus, there is no longer a specific culture, but a mixture of cultures, causing a dilution and loss in culture.