Meet Anisha Rosnah, Non-Royal Marrying Brunei Prince Abdul Mateen

Brunei, an oil-rich sultanate nestled on the northern edge of Borneo island, is set to witness the union of Prince Abdul Mateen, the 10th child of the world's longest-reigning monarch, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, who is poised to wed his non-royal fiancée Yang Mulia Anisha Rosnah in a spectacular 10-day celebration.

This royal affair, marked by opulence and tradition, promises to be a spectacle, showcasing the grandeur of Brunei's royal heritage and extreme wealth, derived predominantly from its vast oil reserves.

The Prince and His Bride

Prince Abdul Mateen, a polo enthusiast and a prominent figure in Brunei's royal family, is poised to marry Yang Mulia Anisha Rosnah, a commoner with a notable lineage. The 32-year-old prince, often dubbed the "hot royal" for his matinee idol looks and significant social media following, is set to exchange vows with his 29-year-old bride in an Islamic ceremony within the gold-domed mosque in the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan.

Anisha Rosnah, the granddaughter of one of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah's key advisers, brings her own accomplishments to the union. Reportedly involved in the fashion industry and co-owned a tourism business, she adds a touch of modernity to the royal family.

A Regal Affair

The royal celebrations span a lavish 10-day affair, culminating in a glittering ceremony in the opulent 1,788-room palace and an elaborate procession through the streets of Bandar Seri Begawan. The guest list reads like a who's who of international royalty and political leaders, underscoring the global significance of this union.

Bruneians, eager to partake in the spectacle, plan to line the streets for the grand procession, where the couple will pass by in a royal carriage. 

The 'Hot Royal' Global Impact

While unlikely to ascend the throne, Prince Abdul Mateen's charisma, often compared to Britain's Prince Harry, has made him a "hot royal" sensation. A helicopter pilot in Brunei's air force, he graduated from Britain's Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and represented his country in polo at the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

In recent years, Prince Mateen has taken on a growing role in international diplomacy. Accompanying his father to significant events such as the coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla and Queen Elizabeth's funeral showcases his increasing influence on the global stage.

Brunei's Wealth

The royal extravaganza not only showcases the union of two individuals but also puts a spotlight on Brunei's extreme wealth. Nestled on the northern edge of Borneo Island, this tiny nation has amassed immense riches, primarily from its vast oil reserves.

With an annual GDP per capita of nearly $36,000, Brunei stands as one of the world's wealthiest countries. Once under British rule, Brunei gained independence in 1984, emerging as an absolute monarchy with strict Islamic laws. The Sultan's wealth, though no longer holding the title of the world's richest man, remains legendary. His collection of luxury vehicles and the sprawling riverside official residence stands as an example of his affluence.

As Brunei prepares for this royal union, the world watches in awe. The marriage of Prince Abdul Mateen and Anisha Rosnah symbolizes the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, offering a glimpse into the opulence and cultural richness of Brunei.