Istana Nurul Iman, Mukim Labu Travel Guide

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Discover Istana Nurul Iman, the world's largest royal residence and a symbol of Brunei's blend of Islamic heritage and Malay traditions.

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Istana Nurul Iman

Istana Nurul Iman, the official residence of the Sultan of Brunei, is the world's largest residential palace and a symbol of Brunei's rich history and royal traditions. While typically not open to the public, it welcomes visitors during the annual Hari Raya Aidilfitri, offering a unique cultural experience. Otherwise, the palace can be viewed from a distance or during a Brunei River tour.

A brief summary to Istana Nurul Iman

VWFC+46J, Jln Menteri Besar, Bandar Seri Begawan, Tumasek, BB3910, BN
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Istana Nurul Iman.

Visit during Hari Raya Aidilfitri for the chance to enter the palace and meet the Sultan.
Dress respectfully when visiting the palace during Hari Raya.
View the palace from the Brunei River on a boat tour for a unique perspective.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From the Bandar Seri Begawan Bus Terminal on Jalan Cator, take a bus towards Jalan Menteri Besar. Disembark at the nearest bus stop to Jalan Menteri Besar, from where it is a short walk to the palace. Bus services typically operate from 6:00 to 18:00. A single bus fare within the city costs around BND 1.
Taxi

Taxis can be hailed from major hotels or arranged via the Dart ride-hailing app. A taxi ride from the city center to Istana Nurul Iman typically costs between BND 5-10, depending on traffic and the exact location. Note that taxi availability may be limited outside the city center.

Discover more about Istana Nurul Iman

Istana Nurul Iman, meaning 'Palace of the Light of Faith,' is the official residence of the Sultan of Brunei, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, and the seat of the Brunei government. Completed in 1984, just before Brunei's independence from British rule, the palace was commissioned by the Sultan to signify a new era for the country.Designed by Filipino architect Leandro V. Locsin, with interior design by Khuan Chew, the palace is a stunning blend of Islamic aesthetics, traditional Malay architecture, and European luxury. Its exterior features striking white walls and golden domes, while the interior boasts opulent gold and marble décor.As the world's largest residential palace, Istana Nurul Iman covers approximately 2 million square feet (200,000 square meters). It has 1,788 rooms, including 257 bathrooms, a 5,000-person banquet hall, and a 1,500-person mosque. The palace also features 18 elevators, 44 marble staircases, five swimming pools, a helipad, and a garage with space for over 100 cars. Additionally, there are air-conditioned stables for the Sultan's polo ponies.While Istana Nurul Iman is primarily a private residence, it also serves as Brunei's center of government, housing the Prime Minister's office and hosting state functions and international events. The palace is generally not open to the public but opens its doors for three days a year during Hari Raya Aidilfitri, the festival marking the end of Ramadan. During this time, visitors can meet the Sultan and receive gifts. Observers can view the palace from the Brunei River year-round.