ROBOTIC “canines” have been coded to guide visitors at two Singapore attractions. The robotic dogs are part of a month-long pilot that sits well with artificial intelligence, tourism content and on-the-ground engagement.
The Robodog trial, running until May 17, sees the AI-powered robotic dogs deployed at Sentosa and Mandai Wildlife Reserve, following a partnership between Singapore Tourism Board and China-based travel platform Mafengwo.
Designed as multilingual visitor guides, the robotic versions of man’s best friend are intended to help visitors navigate attractions, discover stories and receive recommendations in both English and Putonghua.
Mafengwo CEO, Chen Gang, said the project reflected a broader push to rethink how travellers interact with destinations. “By combining our AI capabilities with rich travel content, we aim to create more intuitive, personalised and inspiring ways for travellers to discover destinations.”
At Sentosa, the robots operate along Sentosa Sensoryscape, the landscaped connector linking Resorts World Sentosa with the island’s beaches. Acting as mobile guides, they accompany visitors, converse with them in real time and suggest attractions based on stated interests. The trial also includes scheduled performances in which the robots dance in themed costumes, as well as informal meet-and-greet sessions for photo opportunities.
Mandai Wildlife Reserve is using the robots inside two new indoor attractions – Exploria and Curiosity Cove – where they make surprise appearances, guide guests and interact alongside staff.
More… Robots wow fans as HK Sevens opens
For Singapore’s tourism authorities, the project is as much about testing future capabilities as it is about novelty value. Oliver Chong, assistant chief executive of Singapore Tourism Board’s International Group, said the pilots signal a shift in how technology could shape visitor engagement.
“The pilots in Sentosa and the Mandai Wildlife Reserve mark an exciting step towards reimagining visitor experiences through technology and innovation,” Chong said. “Through our collaboration with Mafengwo, we look forward to continue delivering more personalised, engaging and differentiated experiences that set Singapore apart.”
The initiative also dovetails with Sentosa’s broader “Smart Sentosa” strategy and Mandai’s push to layer digital tools onto physical attractions, especially in indoor environments where crowd management and storytelling are considered increasingly important.
Main picture… Robodogs in formation as a model poses at the Sentosa Sensoryscape
