While monarchies have diminished across the globe, there remain several nations where kings still rule with substantial authority. Today, let us delve into the life of Hassanal Bolkiah, the Sultan of Brunei, a notable figure who, since the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, has become the longest-reigning living monarch. Hassanal Bolkiah has helmed Brunei since 1967 and has served as the prime minister since the nation’s independence from the United Kingdom in 1984. His reign represents one of the few absolute monarchies left in the world.
Ascending to the throne of the predominantly Muslim nation in 1967, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah has a reported net worth of around $30 billion, or over 3000 crore in rupees. As the eldest son of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III and Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit, he inherited the throne when his father abdicated and has since continued the dynastic rule.
Educated through private tutelage before attending Victoria Institution in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst, England, Hassanal Bolkiah’s education has been both privileged and international. His personal life includes five sons and seven daughters from three marriages, adding to the dynasty’s lineage.
Known for his extravagant lifestyle, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah was once considered the richest man in the world until 1980. His wealth stems significantly from Brunei’s plentiful oil reserves and natural gas supplies. These resources have fueled a lifestyle of incomparable luxury, from his home to his means of transportation.
The Sultan resides at Istana Nurul Iman Palace, an edifice sprawling over 2 million square feet. The palace, with a dome encrusted with 22-carat gold, is valued at an impressive Rs 2550 crore. This palatial residence includes 5 swimming pools, 257 bathrooms, and over 1700 rooms to accommodate the royal family and their guests. Additionally, the complex houses 200 air-conditioned stables for horses and 110 garages for the Sultan’s extensive collection of luxury cars.
This brings us to one of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah’s most talked-about investments: his personal Boeing 747 aircraft, which he reportedly acquired at a cost of Rs 3000 crore. It is no ordinary jet; the Daily Mail reports it features a golden wash basin amongst other opulent fittings, and includes a living room and bedroom, lavishly appointed for royal comfort.
But the Sultan’s taste for luxury doesn’t end there. He reportedly owns one of the largest collections of rare cars in the world. A staggering number of 7,000 vehicles form this collection, according to reports, highlighting his gold-coated Rolls-Royce, a fleet of 300 Ferraris, and half a thousand Rolls Royces.
Hassanal Bolkiah’s indulgences extend beyond vehicles. As per the GQ report, he owns a private zoo with 30 Bengal tigers and spends an astronomical USD 20,000 on his haircuts. His go-to barber, based at the Dorchester Hotel in the posh district of Mayfair, London, is flown in especially when the Sultan requires grooming.
Such wealth and opulence may seem fantastical to the average person, but for the Sultan of Brunei, they are merely everyday comforts. His leadership style, combined with his extravagant lifestyle, make him an intriguing figure in modern monarchy. Among the wealthiest royals globally, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah’s reign continues to be a symbol of absolute power and unyielding tradition in an era where such sovereignty is increasingly rare.
