Prince Abdul Mateen of Brunei embraces fatherhood in a heartfelt Instagram post, cradling his newborn daughter, Princess Zahra Mariam Bolkiah, wrapped in a soft pink blanket. The 34-year-old royal, dressed in his military uniform, gazes adoringly at the infant in a rare glimpse into their private family life.
Cozy London Residence Revealed
The photo captures a serene moment inside the couple’s London home, 7,000 miles from Brunei. The background showcases a luxurious yet understated living room with an oatmeal-colored L-shaped sofa, a subtle patterned rug, and a mahogany TV stand. Princess Zahra’s ties to the UK run deep: she was born in London, and her mother, Princess Anisha Rosnah binti Adam, earned a Bachelor of Arts in Modern Languages and European Studies from the University of Bath in 2017.
Official Birth Announcement
The Office of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, confirmed the arrival. The statement reads: “His Royal Highness Princess Anisha Rosnah binti Adam, wife of His Royal Highness Prince Muda ‘Abdul Mateen ibni His Royal Highness Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, with the permission of Allah Subhanahu Wata’ala, has safely given birth to a daughter on Sunday, 20th Syaaban 1447, corresponding to 8th February 2026, at 8:50 a.m.”
The joyous occasion prompted 17 cannon shots at Istana Nurul Iman, signaling nationwide celebrations.
Newborn’s Public Debut
Prince Mateen and Princess Anisha marked the milestone on social media with their first public photo of baby Zahra. “Zahra Mariam Bolkiah. Anisha & I are so grateful to the incredible team at JPMC for their exceptional care and support, and so thankful to everyone for the kind wishes,” Prince Mateen captioned the image. The family posed together in their London home, with Zahra’s playmat visible on the floor, highlighting their new parental routine.
Royal Love Story
The couple’s romance began years before their lavish 2024 wedding, a ten-day extravaganza at Istana Nurul Iman in Bandar Seri Begawan. Royal attendees included Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema. Prince Mateen first connected with Anisha, sister of his close friend Danial Isa-Kalebic, and they started dating in 2018. Son of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and Puan Hajah Mariam binti Abdul Aziz, Prince Mateen balances royal duties with family bliss.
