Heir to Longest-Reigning Monarch’s Throne to Wed Commoner

In a grand celebration befitting royalty, Brunei’s Prince Abdul Mateen, renowned as one of Asia’s most eligible bachelors, is set to marry his commoner fiancée, Yang Mulia Anisha Rosnah. The 10-day festivity kicks off with an Islamic marriage ceremony at a gold-domed mosque in the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan. Mateen, the 10th child of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, is marrying Anisha, the granddaughter of a key adviser to his father, and co-owner of a tourism business with a fashion brand.

The pinnacle of the royal affair is a glittering ceremony in the 1,788-room palace and a lavish procession on Sunday, with an anticipated guest list featuring international royalty and political leaders. The excitement has gripped the nation, with Bruneians expressing awe at the fairytale-like spectacle. The royal wedding showcases the opulence of Brunei, an oil-rich sultanate with a history influenced by Buddhism and Hinduism before converting to Islam in the 14th century. As the sultanate faces economic challenges, the extravagant affair highlights the nation’s extreme wealth and brings a touch of glamour to Brunei’s traditional setting.

While Prince Abdul Mateen may not ascend the throne, his matinee idol looks and social media prominence make him a standout figure in the royal family. A helicopter pilot in the Bruneian air force and a polo player, Mateen’s charisma has earned him the title of the “hot royal” and a growing role in international diplomacy, drawing parallels to Britain’s Prince Harry. The union of Prince Abdul Mateen and Anisha Rosnah unfolds as a captivating chapter in Brunei’s rich history, blending tradition with modern allure.