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The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is one of Bandar Seri Begawan's most beautiful mosques and its white and gold dome and minarets dominate the central city skyline. Built in 1958 it is constructed from Italian marble, British stained glass and millions of gold mosaic tiles. As you walk the streets of Bandar you will hear the regular calls for prayers from the mosque's main minaret.
The mosque is easy to locate - walk around town for more than 5 minutes and you'll spot it. It is located right across the street from the Yayasan shopping mall, about 5 minutes walk from the riverfront.
The mosque is named after Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien, the country's Sultan after the second world war.
Beside the mosque is is a circular artificial lagoon containing a full sized painted concrete replica of a 16th century royal barge.
The barge is nicely lit with green and gold lighting at night, in the daytime it appears rather garishly painted. The mosque itself is the main attraction, displaying both the religious beliefs and the unbelievable opulence of the Sultanate of Brunei.
You can visit the mosque free of charge 8 am to 5.30 pm from Sunday to Wednesday. Non muslims may not enter on Thursdays or Fridays or during prayer time.
You are required to dress politely - don't turn up in shorts and singlet and remember to remove your shoes before entering. Women are expected to wear some kind of head dress - these can be loaned free of charge at the mosque.
Inside the mosque the fittings are almost as opulent as the exterior - the floors and walls gleam and the prayer rooms are beautifully decorated and maintained. At the times non muslims are allowed to enter the place will be somewhat empty and seems cavernous. The marble floors are covered in places by fabulous imported Saudi carpets.
The main minaret stands 44 metres high. If you wish to go to the top of the minaret for the great views over the city there is an elevator and stairs.
The mosque is perhaps best viewed from afar - try sitting at the fountain at Yayasan Mall at night for some great views.
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