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Tomb of Sharif Ali
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The Tomb of Sharif Ali, the third Sultan of Brunei, is a sacred site of great religious and historical significance. Sharif Ali, who originally hailed from Ta'if in Arabia and was a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, reigned from 1425 to 1432. He is credited with consolidating Islam in Brunei, building the country's first mosque, and erecting stone fortifications in Kota Batu. Due to his piety and lineage, he is often referred to as 'Sultan Berkat' (the Blessed Sultan). The tomb is simple yet dignified in design and is located near the remains of the ancient administrative center. It serves as a reminder of the deep roots of the Islamic faith in Bruneian identity and the close historical ties with the Arab world. The site is regularly visited by the faithful who wish to pay their respects to the man who laid the spiritual foundations of modern Brunei.
- Location: Brunei
- Nearby: Kiulap (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 285 | 143 | 155 | 212 | 241 | 258 | 249 | 229 | 253 | 312 | 321 | 333 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The tomb of Sultan Sharif Ali is located in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan and is freely accessible. It is a modest structure that gives a glimpse into Brunei's early Islamic history.
Typical hours
The tomb is outdoors and therefore accessible 24 hours a day. It is best visited during daylight when the natural light makes the inscriptions clearly visible.
Photography
Photography is allowed at any time as it is a public space. Be respectful to locals and avoid loud noises.
Time needed
A visit takes just 10 to 15 minutes to see the site and read the plaques. It's worth pausing for a few minutes to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque or the Royal Regalia Museum. The water village of Kampong Ayer is also a short boat ride away.
Getting there
The tomb is located in the city center, near the Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque. It is easily reachable on foot from most central hotels.
Insider tip
Since it's outdoors, visiting during the cooler morning or evening hours is more pleasant. Bring water as there is no shade nearby.
Geography
Facts
- Sharif Ali reigned as the third Sultan of Brunei from 1425 to 1432.
- He originally came from Ta'if in present-day Saudi Arabia.
- He is revered as a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad.
- Sharif Ali is credited with designing the state emblem of Brunei.
- He commissioned the construction of the first official mosque in Brunei.
- His title 'Sultan Berkat' translates to 'The Blessed Sultan'.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Tomb of Sharif Ali (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Who was Sharif Ali?
The 3rd Sultan of Brunei, a descendant of the Prophet.
Where is the mausoleum?
It is also located in the Kota Batu area.
Is it open to tourists?
Yes, it is a significant historical site.
Is there parking?
There is limited parking along the road.
What is special about it?
He was the first Sultan to build a mosque.
Tomb of Sharif Ali: where is it located?
Tomb of Sharif Ali is located in Brunei.
Tomb of Sharif Ali: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Tomb of Sharif Ali: why is it worth visiting?
The Tomb of Sharif Ali, the third Sultan of Brunei, is a sacred site of great religious and historical significance.
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Nearby cities
Bandar Seri Begawan
Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital and largest city of Brunei, known for the magnificent Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque.
Kiulap
A major commercial and residential area close to the center of Bandar Seri Begawan.
Sengkurong
A rapidly growing residential and commercial area located to the west of the capital.
Mentiri
A residential suburb located in the eastern part of the Brunei-Muara District.
Kota Batu
An area rich in history, containing several important archaeological sites and museums.
Lumapas
A village located south of the capital, connected by land and surrounded by beautiful hills.
Lambak
One of the largest residential areas in Brunei, featuring extensive public housing estates.
Berakas
An important area housing the Brunei International Airport and various government ministries.
Sungai Akar
A prominent residential area housing several foreign embassies and important institutions.
Jerudong
A settlement known for its amusement park, Jerudong Park, and luxurious polo club.
Gadong
The premier commercial and shopping district in the capital region of Brunei.
Subok
A village set against lush green hills, offering a quiet environment close to the capital.
Muara
A prominent port town at the northeastern tip of Brunei, housing the country's main deep-water port.
Kilanas
A traditional village that has developed into a modern residential suburb.
History & landmarks
Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Bridge
A striking cable-stayed bridge over the Brunei River, featuring a pylon crowned with an Islamic dome.
Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery
An overwater information center that illustrates the rich history, architecture, and crafts of the historic water village.
Brunei Energy Hub Dermaga Diraja
The capital's former customs and excise building, now housing an interactive exhibition on the rich history of Brunei's oil and gas indus…
Tasek Lama Recreational Park
A green oasis in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, featuring a picturesque waterfall and popular hiking trails.
Lapau
The magnificent royal ceremonial hall in the heart of the capital, traditionally used for royal coronations and official ceremonies.
Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex
A striking shopping center in the capital featuring traditional Malay architecture, aligned directly with the main mosque.
Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium
The main multi-purpose stadium of the country, hosting major sporting events and national celebrations.
Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas
A beautiful waterfront park in the capital, opened for the Sultan's golden jubilee.
Nature
More places
Tomb of Sultan Bolkiah
The historic resting place of the fifth Sultan of Brunei, who ruled during the empire's golden age.
Kota Batu Archaeological Park
A significant archaeological site that served as the ancient capital of the Bruneian Empire between the 14th and 17th centuries.
Malay Technology Museum
A cultural history museum documenting the traditional manufacturing techniques and architecture of Brunei's Malay population.
Maritime Museum Brunei
A museum dedicated to Brunei's rich maritime history and the archaeological discoveries from ancient shipwrecks.
Taman Riadah Bukit Smoh
The Bukit Smoh Recreation Park offers hiking trails that wind through dense vegetation.
Silver Jubilee Park
A landscaped park featuring monuments created to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Sultan's reign.
Proboscis Monkey River Safari Zone
The dense mangroves along the river are the perfect place to spot the endemic proboscis monkeys of Borneo.
Bukit Subok
A range of hills near the capital featuring popular hiking trails.