Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque: Brunei's Golden Jewel
A stunning mosque in Brunei's capital, blending Mughal and Italian design with a golden dome and serene lagoon.
The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is one of the most magnificent mosques in Southeast Asia. Named after the 28th Sultan of Brunei, it stands as a testament to the country's Islamic faith and architectural prowess. The mosque was built to commemorate the achievements of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III in the 17 years since the founding of the country. The mosque's design is a captivating blend of Mughal and Italian Renaissance styles. Its most recognizable feature is the golden dome, made of 3.3 million pieces of gold Venetian mosaics, which dominates the city's skyline. The interior is equally lavish, with Italian marble floors and walls, English chandeliers, and carpets from Saudi Arabia. The mosque can accommodate 3,000 worshippers. Surrounding the mosque is an artificial lagoon that serves as a reflecting pool, enhancing its beauty. In the lagoon sits a replica of a 16th-century royal barge, adding to the mosque's majestic appearance. The mosque is a popular tourist destination and a place of worship for Brunei Muslims. Visitors can explore the exterior and gardens, but photography inside is restricted. Modest attire is required.
Local tips
- Dress modestly when visiting; women should cover their arms and legs, and men should avoid shorts.
- Visit outside of prayer times to ensure entry.
- Photography is allowed outside, but not inside the mosque.
- Take off your shoes before entering the mosque.
A brief summary to Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
- Jalan McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan, BS8711, BN
Getting There
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Walking
The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is centrally located in Bandar Seri Begawan, making it easily accessible on foot from many downtown hotels and attractions. From the Royal Regalia Museum, walk southwest along Jalan Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien. The mosque will be visible on your left, across the lagoon. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
Local buses connect various parts of Bandar Seri Begawan to the city center. Several bus routes pass near the mosque. The nearest bus stop is Jalan Soas (Royal Regalia@History Centre), a short walk from the mosque. A single bus fare within the city costs BND 1.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Dart are readily available in Bandar Seri Begawan. A short taxi ride from Brunei International Airport to the mosque costs approximately BND 20-25. From other locations in the city center, expect to pay around BND 5-10, depending on the distance.
