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A Guide to Sultan Mosque, Singapore’s Iconic Religious Landmark
While wandering Kampong Glam, the golden dome of Sultan Mosque always catches my eye, shining like a beacon of history. Inside, it’s more than beauty; it’s living heritage.
This living testament to Singapore’s Muslim heritage reveals something for everyone, from intricate designs to serene courtyards. With this guide, I invite you to slow down and embrace the spirit of past and present via the Sultan Mosque.
History
Sultan Mosque, or Masjid Sultan, was built in 1824 by Sultan Hussein Shah, the first Sultan of Singapore, in Kampong Glam. It quickly became a spiritual and cultural hub for the Muslim community in the region.
In 1928, the mosque was rebuilt by British architect Denis Santry, giving it the grand design it’s known for today.
The mosque showcases a unique blend of Islamic, Indian, and European architectural elements. The tall minarets, arches, and intricate floral motifs add to its grandeur, cementing its status as a National Monument.
Keep your eyes peeled for the horseshoe arches, which curve inward at the base and flare outwards at the top. They are both decorative and functional, supporting the structure while adding elegance to the design.
Things to Know
Location: 3 Muscat Street
Contact: +6562934405
Hours:
- Monday to Friday, 9 AM–6 PM
- Saturday, 9 AM–1 PM
Fees: Free entrance
Website
Accessibility: Generally wheelchair-accessible
Amenities: Wash facilities (ablution areas), dedicated spaces for women, guided tours and cultural programs, public toilets
Rules and restrictions:
✔ Dress modestly
✔ Remove shoes in prayer areas
✔ Observe silence
✔ Practise respectful behaviour
✔ Ask permission before taking pics
✖ No pets
✖ No smoking
✖ No eating or drinking
How to Get There
Closest MRT: To get to the Sultan Mosque by train, take the East-West Line (EW12) or Downtown Line (DT14) to Bugis MRT Station. From the station, it’s about a 10-minute walk. Head towards Bugis Junction, continue down Victoria Street and turn onto Arab Street to arrive at the mosque’s entrance on Muscat Street.
Closest bus stop: Several bus routes stop nearby. Look for buses 2, 7, 12, 32, 33, 51, 63, 80, 130, 145, or 197 and alight at the Opposite Bussorah Street or Parkview Square stops. From there, it’s a short walk through the Kampong Glam neighbourhood, leading you to the mosque’s entrance.
By car: Public parking is available at nearby locations such as Golden Landmark Shopping Centre and Sultan Plaza.
Sections
Golden Dome and Onion Domes
Media from amossaw
The first time I saw the golden dome of Sultan Mosque, it felt like it belonged in a storybook—gleaming in the sun, unmistakable against the Kampong Glam skyline.
Its Indo-Saracenic design beautifully merges Islamic, Indian, and European architectural elements.
What makes it even more special is that the dome’s base was constructed using glass bottle ends, donated by the local community, underlining their unity and contribution to this historic place.
Ablution Fountain Courtyard
Media from picsque_andychong
The courtyard with the ablution fountain at Sultan Mosque is open to the public when prayers aren’t in session. I found the open-air courtyard especially charming, surrounded by the mosque’s beautiful arches and minarets.
It’s a spot where worshippers perform their wudu (ablution) to cleanse themselves before entering the prayer hall, adding to the spiritual preparation before prayer begins.
The Prayer Hall
Media from safwanhashim
Sultan Mosque’s expansive prayer hall can accommodate up to 5,000 worshippers, making it ideal for large congregational prayers and key religious events.
Its design masterfully blends Islamic and local architectural traditions, with spacious outdoor areas that host community gatherings, especially during festive celebrations like Ramadan.
Do note that non-Muslims are asked to avoid entering the main prayer hall during prayer times to respect the space for worshippers. You can find the exact timings posted at the mosque or on the notice boards to plan your visit accordingly.
Things to Do
Join free guided tours with local volunteers
Media from starefun
Joining a free guided tour at Sultan Mosque is one of the best ways to dive into its rich history and architecture.
These tours are run by passionate local volunteers who not only share stories about the mosque’s golden domes and symbolic design but also give insights into the traditions of the Muslim community in Kampong Glam.
You can find these tours starting near the main entrance or in the courtyard during non-prayer hours. The volunteers are friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience both engaging and informative.
Check out Islamic calligraphy and educational displays
Media from jtemplet1
The Islamic calligraphy and educational displays at Sultan Mosque are a rewarding experience, offering deeper insights into Islamic art and teachings.
Located inside the mosque and around the courtyard, they feature elegant Arabic scripts, showcasing Quranic verses and traditional Islamic motifs that reflect the beauty and spirituality of the faith.
You’ll also find educational panels explaining Islamic practices, history, and the significance of the mosque in Singapore’s Muslim community.
Attend public events and programs
Media from masjidsultan
During Ramadan, the mosque becomes a hub of activity, with a festive night bazaar just outside filled with food stalls. It’s when locals and visitors gather to break fast at sunset.
Programs like prayer courses and community outreach events also welcome non-Muslim visitors, offering insights into Islamic practices and fostering interfaith understanding.
Visitors interested in joining these events can often find details at the mosque’s main office or on their website.
