‘1,788 rooms, including 257 bathrooms’: Inside the world’s largest palace where PM Modi was hosted by Sultan of Brunei

PM Modi made history with his two-day visit to Brunei by becoming the first Indian prime minister to visit the Southeastern nation. PM Modi was hosted at the Istana Nurul Iman Palace by the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah, where he was welcomed with a lavish lunch.

But did you know the palace is the Sultan’s official residence and also holds the title of the world’s largest residential palace, according to the Guinness Book of World Records?

Official Luncheon by His Majesty in honour of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji in Brunei Darussalam 🇮🇳 🇧🇳 🙏@narendramodi @PMOIndia @borneo_bulletin @MediaPermata pic.twitter.com/A0o6UwX5zf

— India in Brunei (@HCIBrunei) September 4, 2024

Istana Nurul Iman: The world’s largest residential palace

Located in Brunei’s capital city Bandar Seri Begawan, its name, “Istana Nurul Iman,” translates to “Palace of the Light of Faith,” reflecting the deep Islamic roots of Brunei’s monarchy and the Sultanate’s devotion to Islamic principles.

Designed by Filipino architect Leandro V. Locsin and built by the Ayala Corporation, Istana Nurul Iman showcases a blend of Malay and Islamic architecture, with golden domes, vaulted roofs, and intricate Islamic calligraphy adorning the palace. The design captures Brunei’s rich cultural heritage while also embracing modern architectural elements.

The palace was completed in 1984, the same year Brunei gained full independence from the United Kingdom. It was constructed at an estimated cost of $1.4 billion USD, making it not only one of the largest but also one of the most expensive royal residences.

How big is the palace?

Spanning a staggering 2.15 million square feet, according to the official website of the palace, the Istana Nurul Iman boasts:

• 1,788 rooms, including 257 bathrooms.
• A banquet hall that can accommodate up to 5,000 guests.
• A mosque that can host 1,500 people for prayers.
• A helipad
• Five swimming pools, a throne room, and stables for the Sultan’s prized polo ponies.

Its vast interiors are lavishly decorated with the finest materials, including gold, marble, and exotic woods, reflecting the immense wealth of the Sultan and the importance of the monarchy in Brunei’s cultural and political life.

My visit to Brunei Darussalam was productive. It ushers in a new era of even stronger India-Brunei ties. Our friendship will contribute to a better planet. I am grateful to the people and Government of Brunei for their hospitality and affection. pic.twitter.com/Wm3pilBAlL

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 4, 2024

Apart from being the Sultan’s private residence, Istana Nurul Iman serves as the seat of Brunei’s government. It houses the Prime Minister’s Office, various state function rooms, and is the venue for important national ceremonies, like the lunch for PM Modi.

The Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah, is one of the world’s wealthiest individuals, largely due to Brunei’s vast oil and gas reserves. His wealth is estimated at $28 billion, making him one of the richest monarchs globally. As the 29th Sultan of Brunei, he has ruled since 1967 and leads a life of immense luxury.

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