Birthday of Muhammad (Mawlid) in Brunei
Known locally as Maulud Nabi Muhammad, the holiday commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad and falls on 12 Rabiulawal in the Hijri calendar. In Brunei, it is marked by religious observances at mosques and prayer halls across the country.[1]
Meaning and place in Brunei
Brunei’s Ministry of Religious Affairs describes Maulud Nabi as a commemoration of the birth of the final prophet and an expression of Muslims’ love, reverence and gratitude. The observance also recalls the Prophet’s efforts in spreading Islam.[1]
A Prime Minister’s Office holiday circular lists Maulud Nabi Muhammad among Brunei’s public holidays. The day follows the Islamic calendar, so its Gregorian date changes from year to year.[2]
Dikir at mosques nationwide
A distinctive Brunei observance is Dikir Syarafil Anam, recitations of praise and blessings for the Prophet. The Ministry of Religious Affairs describes these gatherings as taking place over 12 consecutive nights at mosques, suraus and balai ibadat throughout the country, beginning after congregational Maghrib prayers.[1]
A gathering may include congregational prayer, Quran recitation, dikir and a religious talk. The ministry explains that these activities remember the Prophet and bring worshippers together at local places of worship.[1]
Public holiday and practical planning
The Prime Minister’s Office includes Maulud Nabi in its public holiday circular. The observance falls on 12 Rabiulawal, so its Gregorian date changes from year to year.[1][2]
Check directly with offices and businesses you plan to visit, and consult local notices for event-related traffic arrangements.[2]
Frequently asked questions
When is Maulud Nabi observed in Brunei?
It is observed on 12 Rabiulawal in the Hijri calendar. The corresponding Gregorian date changes each year.[1]
Is it a public holiday?
Yes. The Prime Minister’s Office includes Maulud Nabi Muhammad in its public holiday circular.[2]
What happens during the observance?
Dikir Syarafil Anam gatherings are held at mosques, suraus and balai ibadat across Brunei over 12 consecutive nights, beginning after Maghrib prayers.[1]
Will shops, banks and transport services be open?
Check with individual shops, banks and transport providers before travelling.[2]
Sources and references
Sources used for Birthday of Muhammad (Mawlid) in Brunei:
- MAJLIS PEMBUKAAN DIKIR SEMPENA SAMBUTAN MAULUD NABI MUHAMMAD SHALLALLAHU ‘ALAIHI WASSALLAM BAGI TAHUN 1448H / 2026M- Ministry of Religious Affairs, Brunei Darussalam
- 04/2025 – Hari-Hari Kelepasan Awam Tahun 2026- Prime Minister’s Office, Brunei Darussalam