Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
Coordinates: 4.889580, 114.939140
Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is an Islamic mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei.
It is often considered as one of the most beautiful mosques in the Asia Pacific.
It is a place of worship for the Muslim community, a major historical site, and a famous tourist attraction of Brunei.
It is named after Omar Ali Saifuddien III, the 28th Sultan of Brunei, who initiated its construction. The mosque serves as a symbol of the Islamic faith in Brunei.
The building was completed in 1958 and is an example of modern Islamic architecture.
The mosque’s most recognizable feature, the main dome, is covered in pure gold. The mosque stands 52 m (171 ft) high.
The main minaret is its tallest feature. In a unique way, it mixes Renaissance and Italian architectural styles.
The minaret has an elevator to the top, where a visitor can enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
The mosque has marble minarets and golden domes, a courtyard and is surrounded by a large number of trees and floral gardens.
A bridge reaches across the lagoon to Kampong Ayer in the middle of the river.
The barge itself was completed in 1967 to commemorate the 1,400th anniversary of Nuzul Al-Quran (coming down of the Quran) and was used to stage the Quran reading competitions.
The interior of the mosque is for prayer only, with features such as stained glass windows, arches, semi-domes and marble columns.
Nearly all the material used for the building were imported from abroad: the marble from Italy, the granite from Shanghai, the crystal chandeliers from England, and the carpets from Saudi Arabia.
Legend has it that if you bathe with the water from the mosque, evils spirit eventually would go.
Know This
Readily within reach by car/taxi in Jalal McAthur in Bandar Seri Begawan, the mosque is open to tourists outside of the prescribed 5 daily prayer times. If you’re driving a hire car, street parking right.
For Non-Muslims it’s not open to visit during Friday.
Be sure to visit the grounds and neighbouring park for good all round.
Ladies should wear long trousers and Head covering not necessary. They will ask you to wear a black overcoat which is provided. Guys need to wear long trousers.
At the entrance they will ask you if you’re a Muslim. Muslims are free to walk around inside the whole mosque. Non-Muslims must remain behind the red rope.
