Istana Nurul Iman Access

Only once a year you can get into the palace of the Sultan of Brunei Hassanal Bolkiah and personally shake his hand or talk to his wife, depending on your gender.

The doors of the Palace are open only for three days a year, after the month of Ramadan.

In case you have never seen a living sultan, this is your chance to meet one, because during these three days the sultan and his family are personally greeting their guests.

Every single person is paid attention and welcomed to the Palace.

Muslims have access to the palace for ten more days in Ramadan mainly for religious purposes. During the rest of the year you can only admire the palace from outside.

Before getting into the Palace you will have to stand in a long queue and pass a small medical examination, otherwise you won’t be able to say hello to the Sultan. After getting to the palace you will be offered food and presents, and children will even receive small green bags, containing money.

How to get there

Getting to the Palace is quite easy from the capital of Brunei - Bandar Seri Begawan, located on a distance of around 3,5-4 kilometers from Istana Nurul Iman.

Be aware that during the period, when the doors of the palace are open, Brunei is overcrowded with visitors. The number of visitors can reach 200,000 people. This is why you will need to book your accommodation in prior. The entrance to the Palace is free of charge.

Istana Nurul Iman on the Map: