SULTAN MOSQUE

Declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1975, Sultan Mosque is one of the most significant mosques in Singapore. It is located between the North Bridge Road and Muscat Street within the Rochor district of Singapore. This mosque was named after Sultan Hussain Shah and built in Indo-Saracenic architecture.

Sultan Mosque, or locally known as Masjid Sultan, is situated at Muscat street within the precinct of Rochor in Singapore. It is the main focal point of Singapore’s Muslim community, as various cultural, religious, and art activities are conducted here. In 1975, it was declared as a World Heritage site by UNESCO and has attracted large masses of tourists ever since, particularly those interested in Singapore travel packages. It was formerly the royal mosque of the Sultan of Johor and represents the unity and solidarity of Muslims in Singapore.

The mosque was built in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture which combines the aesthetic of European design along with the traditional Indian and Islamic elements. The main highlight of Singapore's largest mosque is its huge prayer hall with a shimmering golden dome. This mosque is a must-visit for people visiting the Kampong district.

Sultan Mosque was built in 1824 for the first sultan of Singapore, Sultan Hussain Shah with the assistance of Sir Raffles, the founder of Singapore. It stands as a reminder of Malay royalty who then ruled the region. Non-muslims are refrained from visiting the main prayer hall and people are expected to dress modestly while entering the mosque. If you are planning to visit the mosque during Ramadan then you must definitely check out the dazzling night market nearby. 

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Highlights

• Standing majestically tall in the historic district of Kampong Glam, Masjid Sultan or the Sultan Mosque is the largest mosque and focal point Singapore’s muslim community.
• This enchanting mosque is built in Indo-Saracenic architectural style which seems like it has just been pulled out of the Arabian Nights
• The main highlight of the mosque is the huge prayer hall with a shimmering golden dome top
• The mosque was constructed in 1824 as a memoir for the first Sultan of Singapore, Sultan Hussain Shah
• It is said in the muslim community that Sultan Mosque was used as a stoppage for islamic pilgrimages on their way to Mecca for sacred Hajj journey
• This magnificent mosque stands as a reminder of Malay royalty that used to house in the region
• While visiting the mosque one is expected to dress appropriately and decently as a respect towards the muslim community

How To Reach

• By Road - Since Sultan Mosque is located in a prominent district of Singapore you can easily reach it via roads. You can get various cabs or taxis readily available at the city centre to reach the mosque
• By Bus - There are several bus stops neighbouring the Kampong district but the nearest bus stop to Masjid Sultan is Victoria Street, North Bridge Road and Beach Road which are located at a walking distance. 
• By Mass Rapid Transit - This magnificent mosque is easily accessible via MRT stations. You can reach the mosque from two of the nearest stations, Jalan Besar MRT Station and Bugis MRT station. 

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Best Time To Visit

The perfect month to visit Sultan Mosque is between September and November when muslims celebrate Ramadan and Hajj. The best time of the day to visit this stunning mosque is between 10 AM to 11 AM as it is not much crowded and you can perform your rituals and offer your prayers to the upper power in a calm and serene atmosphere. 

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Other Essential Information

History of Sultan Mosque Singapore

Sultan Hussain decided to build a mosque next to his palace to benefit his status with funds collected from the East India company. The mosque was built between the period of 1824 to 1826 with a two-tiered pyramidal roof. The management of the mosque was looked after by Sultan’s grandson, Alauddin Shah. He took the responsibility until he passed away in 1879 and the torch was passed to five community leaders. 

In 1914, the lease was taken over and extended by the government for a further period of 999 years and a new board of trustees were appointed. By the early 1900’s, Singapore had grown a lot in the fields of commerce, art and culture so the mosque became too small for its community. Therefore, in the year 1924, the trustees approved a plan to construct a new mosque. After a brief period of renovation the current mosque stood erect for public visit.

Read More: Historical Places in Singapore

Tips to Visit Sultan Mosque Singapore

• Every visitor must take off their shoes outside the mosque premises before entering the holy place as a respectful gesture
• Schools, organisations and companies are required to make prior arrangements at least a week before visiting the mosque. The visits can be organised between Monday to Thursday
• Visitors are not allowed to enter the main prayer hall unless they are in a company of a mosque official
• Photography is allowed but without flash to not seek attention of devotees offering their prayer. Special permission is required for videography
• Robes at the main entrance are available on first-come-first serve basis

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