Istana Nurul Iman

Istana Nurul Iman (English: The Light of Faith Palace) is the official residence of the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah, and is the seat of the Government of Brunei. The palace sits a few kilometers southwest of Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei's capital city, on a tree-lined stretch of hills along the riverside on the banks of the Brunei River. State festivals and royal gatherings were frequently held at the palace.

It was constructed by Filipino architect Visayan Leandro V. Locsin, who included golden domes and domes into the architecture to reflect Brunei's Muslim and Malay influences. Khuan Chew, Design Principal of KCA International, designed the palace's interior. Ayala Abbott and Butters, a UK construction firm, oversaw the project, which was finished in 1984 at a cost of around US $ 1.4 billion.

Istana Nurul Iman has a total area of 200,000 square meters, has 1,788 rooms, including 257 bathrooms, the capacity is not suitable for 5,000 customers. The palace has a mosque that can accommodate 1,500 people, including 110 garage stations, 200 horses and 5 activated lakes.

Located in a mountain range on the banks of the Brunei River a few kilometers south of Bandan Seri Begawan, the palace is where the headquarters of the Brunei government and the prime minister's main office. At the same time the palace was also the residence of King Hassanal Bolkiah and his royal lineage. There is also a throne chamber, which is utilized for different official occasions such as the crown prince's announcement and the annual birthday ordination, in addition to the state and reception rooms.

The palace is lavishly adorned with high-end furnishings, gold and silver materials, jewels and stones, and... Inside, there is a throne, tables and seats for the monarch to greet visitors, as well as massive gold portraits, bowls, and water glasses. Visitors can visit the golden palace and feel as though they are engulfed in the King's fantasy kingdom without ever wishing to return to reality.

The palace is normally closed to the public, with the exception of the annual Muslim Hari Raya Aidilfitri, when guests are blessed and given gifts by the monarch. For ten days during the Ramadhan holiday, Istana Nurul Iman is available to Muslims for Tadarus and Tarawih prayers.

Visiting the Royal Palace, visitors not only get to see the King and the royal family, but also witness the pride and admiration of the people of Brunei for their venerable King. In addition, visitors see firsthand the splendid beauty of the royal works from the inside.

Operating hours: Open all day

Address: Jln Menteri Besar, Bandar Seri Begawan BA2112, Brunei