Deemed as one of the most beautiful mosques in Asia Pacific, Masjid Omar Ali Saifuddien of Brunei Darussalam grandly showcases the work of modern Islamic architecture combining Mughal and Malay styles - making it one of the top attractions in the Islamic country.

Read also: Top Things to Do in Brunei Darussalam

Masjid Omar Ali Saifuddien, Brunei

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque History 

The construction was initiated in 1952 by His Majesty Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III – the 28th ruler of Brunei as a symbol of the Islamic faith in Brunei. The mosque was completed in 1958 under the supervision of a great Italian sculptor named Cavaliere Rodolfo Nolli with the customised design developed by the Booty and Edwards architectural firm.

Masjid Omar Ali Saifuddien is the brainchild of His Majesty Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III

Most Beautiful Mosque in Asia Pacific

What makes Masjid Omar Ali Saifuddien outstanding is the fact that its position makes it possible for the glistening of the pure gold dome to shine and be reflected from the lagoon. Thanks to this brilliant engineering, the 28th Sultan - His Majesty Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III was named as ‘The Architect of Modern Brunei’.

After so many years, this mosque still stands to be the prominent landmark of Brunei as it is beautifully designed with tall trees and well-maintained flower gardens. The prayer hall of the mosque can accommodate up to 3,000 people at one time.

The mosque’s 52-meter marble minaret makes it the tallest building in central Bandar Seri Begawan. In the past, the Bank of Brunei building had to remove its top storey by order of the Sultan when it was found that it unintentionally exceeded the height limit in comparison to the mosque. In the eyes of the locals, the mosque shall be the center of attention, allowing everyone to see it from anywhere in the city and hear the call of prayers.

Masjid Omar Ali Saifuddien’s 52-meter marble minaret makes it the tallest building in central Bandar Seri Begawan.

Modern Islamic Architecture

The main dome of the mosque is very stunning, covered with pure gold coating. The tallest feature is the mosque’s main minaret which is as high as 171 feet. Visitors may set foot on the available elevator to get a glimpse of the fascinating panoramic view of Brunei from the viewing deck located at the minaret.

Entering the mosque hall used for prayer, visitors will quickly notice the luxurious interior features such as grand arches, semi-domes, solid marble columns, and intricately stained glass windows. The finest materials were selected from abroad; including carpets from Saudi Arabia and Belgium, cascading crystal chandeliers from England, huge timber doors curated in the Philippines, granite tiles from Shanghai, and exquisite marble from Italy.

Beautifully landscaped garden surrounding the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque in Brunei

Masjid Omar Ali Saifuddien showcases Mughal and Malay influences

Facts About Masjid Omar Ali Saifuddien

The exterior of the mosque features fascinating landscapes as it was built on an artificial lagoon on the banks of the Brunei River at Kampong Ayer. There is a bridge connecting the mosque to the stilt village. There is another bridge that leads to a replica of a 16th century Sultan Bolkiah Mahligai Barge structure that was completed in 1967 in commemoration of the 1400th Nuzul Quran celebration. The stage appearance made the barge structure a suitable platform for the Quran recital competition and hosting special events.

Historically, the place where the mosque was built – Kampung Ayer, consists of a traditional stilt settlement area. It is very interesting to observe the surroundings of Kampong Ayer, which houses nearly 10% of Brunei’s total population. It has been nicknamed as ‘Venice of the East’ due to its social and economic interaction. Water villages in the Kampong Ayer district are mostly interconnected by bridges and walkways or accessible by water transport such as water taxis. Take a moment and indulge in the uniquely beautiful scenes of locals fetching and commuting using these boats from one floating village to the next!

Travel Tips for Visitors

As with most religious building establishments, it is strictly forbidden for non-worshippers to visit during prayer times. On top of that, visitors are also required to dress appropriately when they step into the mosque. Covered robes will be provided by the administration staff if necessary.

Opening Hours

Visiting hours of the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque are as follow:

• Sunday to Thursday: 8:30am – 12:00pm, 1:30pm – 3:00pm, and 4:30pm – 5:30pm
• Friday and Saturday: 4:30pm – 5:30pm

Masjid Omar Ali Saifuddien is the top attraction in Brunei

Location & Contact Information

Address: Jalan McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan BS8711, Brunei

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