Brunei’s Prince Mateen, 34, embraces fatherhood in a heartfelt Instagram post, cradling his newborn daughter, Princess Zahra, while dressed in his military uniform. The image captures a tender moment as he gazes adoringly at the infant swaddled in a light pink blanket.
Inside the Royal London Home
The photo reveals a glimpse into their quietly luxurious London residence, located 7,000 miles from Brunei. The living room features an oatmeal-hued L-shaped sofa, a subtle patterned rug, and a mahogany TV stand. London holds special significance for the family: Princess Zahra was born there, and her mother, Princess Anisha Rosnah binti Adam, earned a Bachelor of Arts in Modern Languages & 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, announced the birth. The statement reads: “In compliance with the orders of His Majesty… 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 am.”
The joyous occasion prompted 17 cannon shots at Istana Nurul Iman.
First Public Glimpse of Princess Zahra
Prince Mateen and Princess Anisha previously shared the first photo of their daughter on social media. “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 from their London home, acknowledging Jerudong Park Medical Centre. The post showed the couple with their daughter’s playmat visible in the background.
The Couple’s Love Story
Prince Mateen and Princess Anisha married in 2024 during a lavish ten-day celebration at Istana Nurul Iman in Bandar Seri Begawan. Royal attendees included Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema. The pair met years earlier through Anisha’s brother, Danial Isa-Kalebic, a close friend of the prince, and began dating in 2018.
