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Building and Construction Authority

Accessibility and Universal Design

Learn how BCA promotes accessibility and Universal Design to build an inclusive Singapore where people of all ages and abilities can live, work, and play.

Last updated on 12 November 2026

Building a more inclusive future

A truly inclusive built environment starts with accessibility for all.  Accessibility standards and Universal Design (UD) principles lay the foundations for spaces where people of all ages and abilities can move, work, and live life with dignity and ease.

What is Universal Design?

Universal Design (UD) means designing for all. Its goal is to ensure products and environments address the needs of everyone, regardless of their physical abilities or age. 

BCA promotes UD to create a user-friendly built environment for all through initiatives for both existing and new developments. 

Encouraging the adoption of UD principles

To further encourage developers, owners, and designers, BCA introduced the Universal Design Index (UDi). This self-assessment framework enables the evaluation of projects according to their level of user-friendliness and promotes the integration of UD principles.

Projects that demonstrate excellence in UD are recognized through the Universal Design Excellence Award, highlighting leadership in building inclusive buildings and spaces. 

Between 2013 and 2021, projects were also certified under the UD Mark Certification Scheme, recognizing new developments that demonstrated a strong commitment to accessibility and inclusiveness.

Partnering the community and stakeholders 

We have been working closely with the community and other government agencies to collectively identify issues, prioritise and co-create solutions to enhance the accessibility of public spaces through the Accessible City Network community partnership. There are currently community partnerships in the Raffles Place precinct and Robinson Road.

We invite interested members of the public to join us (opens in new tab) on this collaborative effort to make Singapore a more accessible and inclusive city.

Forging the path to a more inclusive Singapore

Through the integration of accessibility standards and UD principles in new and existing developments, Singapore continues to create more inclusive spaces. These efforts highlight the country’s dedication to ensuring a built environment that is truly accessible to all. 

Universal Design Index (UDi)

The Universal Design Index (UDi) Self Assessment Framework serves as a tool for inclusive design. Developed by the BCA, it guides and evaluates the incorporation of universal design features in building projects. Let's take a closer look at how the UDi can help to shape a more equitable and user-friendly built environment.

Universal Design Performance

Discover how the Universal Design Index (UDi) measures inclusivity and accessibility in buildings and how UD performance can be improved.

Universal Design Index Ratings

View the UDi ratings of recently completed projects.

Universal Design Guides

Universal Design Guide for public spaces complements the Code. It helps designers integrate user-friendly features in various spaces, including hawker centres and shopping malls.

Friendly Buildings

Discover user-friendly facilities in new buildings

Related information

Accessibility Fund

Many older buildings were not originally designed with barrier-free features. To help building owners upgrade their spaces, BCA administers the Accessibility Fund. This fund offers capital incentives to private sector owners of buildings to enhance accessibility. The fund is available until March 2027, fostering more inclusive retrofitting in Singapore’s urban landscape.

The Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment

The Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment specifies baseline standards for barrier-free accessibility in new developments, as well as in existing buildings undergoing additions and alterations. It is updated regularly to meet the evolving needs of building users.