Weston County Museum Annex | Newcastle

The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is an iconic royal mosque located in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital city of Brunei.

Visual Characteristics

This mosque features a large golden dome, a minaret constructed from white marble, and a lagoon that reflects its structure. The main prayer hall is supported by four 35-meter high minarets. The exterior walls are clad in granite and marble, with intricate carvings and calligraphy.

Location & Access Logistics

The mosque is situated in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, adjacent to the Brunei River. It is approximately 1 kilometer south of the city center. Parking is available in designated areas around the mosque complex. Public bus routes serving the city center typically stop within a short walking distance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the mosque was completed in 1958. It was commissioned by Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III, the 30th Sultan of Brunei, and designed by the architectural firm Swan & Maclaren. The mosque serves as a prominent symbol of the Islamic faith in Brunei and a testament to Islamic architecture.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the mosque's exterior architecture and the surrounding artificial lagoon. Non-Muslim visitors are permitted to enter the main prayer hall during specific visiting hours, provided they adhere to a modest dress code. Photography is allowed in designated areas.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the mosque complex. Shaded areas are provided around the grounds. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong in this central urban location. Food vendors are present in the nearby commercial areas of Bandar Seri Begawan.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during the late afternoon when the setting sun illuminates the golden dome. Visiting during daylight hours allows for a full appreciation of the architectural details. The mosque is open to visitors outside of prayer times.

Facts & Legends

The mosque's lagoon is designed to resemble the waters of the Sea of Galilee. A replica of a 16th-century royal barge, the Mahligai, is moored in the lagoon and serves as a museum, showcasing historical artifacts related to the mosque and Brunei's monarchy.

Nearby Landmarks

• Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery (0.3km Northwest)
• Tamu Kianggeh Market (0.6km West)
• Royal Regalia Museum (0.8km North)
• Omar Ali Saifuddien Park (0.2km North)