Keyhole State Park | Newcastle

The Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is a significant religious structure located in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei. It serves as the largest mosque in the country.

Visual Characteristics

The mosque features a main prayer hall with a gold-domed roof, supported by four minarets. The exterior is constructed from white marble and granite. The main dome is approximately 54.9 meters high, with smaller domes and finials adorning the structure. The complex includes two 58-meter-high minarets, each topped with a golden dome. The interior is adorned with intricate calligraphy and chandeliers.

Location & Access Logistics

The mosque is situated approximately 5 kilometers north of the Bandar Seri Begawan city center, along Jalan Kebangsaan Lama. Access is via Jalan Kebangsaan Lama. Ample parking is available within the mosque complex. Public bus routes serving Jalan Kebangsaan Lama provide access, with stops located a short walk from the entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque commenced in 1987 and was completed in 1994. It was commissioned by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah to commemorate the 25th anniversary of his accession to the throne. The architectural design draws inspiration from classical Islamic styles.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the main prayer hall and surrounding courtyards. Non-Muslim visitors are permitted entry outside of prayer times, provided they adhere to dress code regulations. Photography is allowed in designated areas. Guided tours are sometimes available, though not on a fixed schedule.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the complex. Shaded areas are provided in the courtyards. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good within the mosque grounds. Food vendors are not located directly within the mosque complex, but are available in nearby commercial areas.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight provides optimal illumination on the marble and gold elements. The months of March to May and September to November generally offer drier weather conditions. There are no tide-specific considerations for visiting.

Facts & Legends

The mosque's construction utilized over 1,200 tons of Italian marble. A unique feature is the presence of 29 gold-plated domes, symbolizing the 29th parallel on which Brunei is located.

Nearby Landmarks

• Royal Regalia Building (1.5km Southwest)
• Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque (3km Southwest)
• Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien (3.2km Southwest)
• Brunei Museum (4.5km Southwest)