BRUNEI

Brunei, a tiny, oil-rich sultanate on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia, is a land where ancient rainforests meet stunning mosques. Its rich Islamic heritage and natural beauty create a truly unique travel experience.

Region: Southeast Asia

Capital: Bandar Seri Begawan

Official Language: Malay. English is widely used, particularly in business and tourism.

Level of Travel Safety: Generally very safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal safety precautions and respect local customs and laws.

A map of Asia with the country of Brunei highlighted in red.

Why Visit Brunei?

Golden Mosques: Admire the stunning Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque.

Untouched Rainforests: Explore Ulu Temburong National Park’s pristine biodiversity.

Royal Heritage: Glimpse regal luxury at the Royal Regalia Museum.

A beautiful mosque with golden domes, reflected in a body of water.

Water Village Life: Visit Kampong Ayer, a centuries-old stilt village over the Brunei River.

Zero Tax Shopping: Shop duty-free for gold, perfumes, and tech.

Peaceful Escape: A tranquil destination with few crowds and a calm pace of life.

A close-up, low-angle shot of a white and gold mosque with intricate arches.

Essential Trip Information

Citizens from over 50 countries (including US, UK, EU, Australia, Singapore) enjoy visa-free entry for 14–90 days.

Others may require a visa on arrival or pre-approved visa.

Check requirements by nationality via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Brunei or consult your local embassy.

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay.

Visitors may be asked to show proof of onward travel and accommodation.

The official currency is the Brunei Dollar (BND). It is pegged 1:1 to the Singapore Dollar (SGD), which is also accepted interchangeably.

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount in advance.

  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs in major malls and banks (Baiduri, HSBC Brunei). Cards are accepted at hotels and supermarkets.

  • What to Avoid: Avoid small exchange booths in rural areas; they offer poor rates. Always choose BND over home currency in transactions.

Malay is the official language. English is commonly spoken in cities and tourist areas.

Helpful phrases: “Terima kasih” (Thank you), “Di mana…?” (Where is…?)

Brunei is exceptionally safe.

Harsh penalties for drugs and crime create a law-abiding environment.

Alcohol is banned for public sale, but non-Muslims can bring in limited personal supplies.

Emergency number: 993 (police), 991 (ambulance/fire)

No vaccinations are required, though routine immunizations should be up to date.

Tap water is generally safe in cities but bottled water is recommended.

Travel insurance is advised as private healthcare can be costly for foreigners.

Pharmacies are available in major towns.

Taxis are limited and expensive—use ride-hailing apps like Dart (Brunei’s local Uber).

Car rentals are the most convenient way to explore.

Water taxis are essential to reach Kampong Ayer.

Public buses are cheap (BND$1), but routes are limited and infrequent.

Brunei is affordable to moderate, depending on your travel style.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Guesthouses/Budget hotels (US$25–50/night)

  • Mid-range: 3-star hotels (US$60–100/night)

  • Luxury: 4–5 star resorts (US$150+/night)

Food

  • Street food/local eateries: US$3–6

  • Restaurants: US$10–25/person

  • Fine dining: US$40+/person (mainly in top hotels)

Drinks

  • No public alcohol sales; soft drinks/coffee/tea are popular

  • Coffee or bubble tea: US$2–4

  • Imported wine/beer (in hotel mini-bars): US$10–20

Transportation

  • Taxi or ride-hailing (Dart): US$6–15 per ride

  • Bus: US$0.75–1

  • Car rental: US$35–60/day

Money-Saving Tips

  • Eat at hawker stalls or local markets for authentic, cheap meals.

  • Use Dart or shared water taxis to explore affordably.

  • Free museums and mosques offer plenty of cultural experiences without an entry fee.

Explore Brunei

The elegant capital city offers golden domes, riverfront markets, and cultural museums—all within walkable distance.

Located in Bandar Seri Begawan, this iconic white-and-gold mosque is a symbol of Brunei’s Islamic identity.

Known as the “Venice of the East,” this floating water village houses over 30,000 residents and showcases traditional Bruneian life.

In eastern Brunei, this pristine rainforest offers canopy walks, longboat rides, and untouched biodiversity in the “Green Jewel of Brunei.”

Located in Gadong district (Bandar area), this opulent mosque is the largest in the country and features 29 golden domes.

In the heart of the capital, this museum displays the Sultan’s lavish regalia, gifts from world leaders, and ceremonial artifacts.

Just minutes from downtown Bandar, this lush park offers jungle trails, waterfalls, and scenic spots for a peaceful escape.

Brunei’s most popular food market, located in the Gadong area, serves sizzling satay, nasi katok, and sweet local desserts.

Along the northern coast near Muara, this quiet stretch of golden sand is perfect for sunsets and picnics.

West of Bandar, Tutong offers lake activities, a tranquil pace, and local flavors at the Tutong Thursday Market.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices

  • Fewer Crowds

  • Authentic Local Vibe

  • Lush Green Landscapes

  • Potential for unique cultural experiences during local holidays

Main Drawbacks:

  • High Rainfall

  • Humid Temperatures ()

  • Limited Outdoor Activities (e.g., jungle trekking may be difficult)

  • Some tours or boat trips may be cancelled due to weather

Key Regions:

  • Bandar Seri Begawan: Explore museums and covered markets.

  • Tutong District: Enjoy some of the less rain-affected coastal areas.

  • Temburong District: Experience the rainforest, but be prepared for heavy downpours.

Key Advantages:

  • Improving Weather

  • Manageable Crowds

  • Reasonable Prices

  • Festivals & Events (e.g., some local celebrations)

  • Good for Wildlife Spotting

Main Drawbacks:

  • Still some unpredictable rain

  • Temperatures can be high ()

  • Humidity remains noticeable

Key Regions:

  • Bandar Seri Begawan: Ideal for exploring major attractions like mosques and museums.

  • Temburong District: Good for rainforest excursions as rain begins to decrease.

  • Coastal Areas (e.g., Seria, Kuala Belait): Enjoy beaches and local life with less interruption.

  • Dry Season (May – August)

  • Public Holidays (e.g., Hari Raya Aidilfitri, National Day)

Planning Your Trip

Religion and Respect: Brunei is a Malay Islamic Monarchy; respect local customs, especially during Ramadan when eating/drinking in public during daylight hours is discouraged.

Dress Code: Modest clothing is expected, especially in religious sites—cover shoulders and knees. Swimwear is only acceptable at hotel pools or beaches.

Tipping: Not customary; service charges are usually included in bills. Small tips appreciated but not expected.

Greetings: A polite nod or handshake is common; avoid physical contact between opposite genders in public.

Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Loud voices or disruptive behavior is considered disrespectful.

Photography: Always ask permission before photographing locals, especially women and religious sites.

Accommodation: Budget guesthouses (~US$30–60), mid-range hotels (US$80–150), luxury resorts (US$250+).

Food: Local eateries and hawker stalls (US$3–8 per meal), casual restaurants (US$10–20), upscale dining (US$40+).

Transport: Taxis and ride-hailing apps ($3–10 per short trip); car rentals start around US$40/day.

Activities: Many cultural sites are free or have small entry fees (US$1–5); guided tours range US$20–50.

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$50–80 (guesthouses, local food, public transport)
  • Mid-range: US$120–200 (comfortable hotels, mixed dining, tours)
  • Luxury: US$300+ (high-end resorts, private guides, fine dining)

Free Wi-Fi: Available in hotels, cafes, shopping malls.

SIM Cards: Local providers like DST and Progresif sell prepaid SIMs at US$10–20 for data packages.

eSIMs: Supported by major international providers; convenient for short stays.

Recommended for: Medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and adventure activities like jungle trekking or river cruises.

Healthcare: Public healthcare is good but basic; private clinics offer higher standards but can be costly without insurance.

Adventure Activities: Check policy coverage for water sports or off-road excursions.

Brunei offers a range of stays from luxury resorts to simple guesthouses.

Luxury:

  • The Empire Hotel & Country Club (luxury beachfront resort)
  • Rizqun International Hotel (downtown Bandar Seri Begawan)

Mid-range:

  • The Brunei Hotel (central location with good amenities)
  • Radisson Hotel Brunei Darussalam

Budget:

  • Guesthouses and homestays in Bandar Seri Begawan and suburban areas (~US$30–50/night)

Unique Stays:

  • Longhouse-style accommodations in rural areas (experience traditional lifestyle)
  • Jungle lodges near Ulu Temburong National Park

Tip: Book well in advance for holidays and weekends, especially for luxury resorts.

Public transport is limited; private transport or taxis are preferred.

Taxis and Ride-hailing: Cars can be hired for short trips; apps like Grab are widely used in Bandar Seri Begawan. Expect fares around US$3–10 within the city.

Car Rental: Recommended for exploring beyond the capital, starting at US$40/day. Driving is on the left side.

Boats: Water taxis and river cruises on the Brunei River are popular for sightseeing.

Buses: Limited services mainly for local commuters; not recommended for tourists.

Walking: Bandar Seri Begawan city center is compact and walkable for short trips.

Handy Tips

Brunei uses the Brunei Dollar (BND), which is pegged 1:1 with the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Banknotes come in $1, $5, $10, $50, and $100 denominations; coins include 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents.

Exchanging Currency: Currency exchange is available at banks and authorized money changers in Bandar Seri Begawan. Avoid exchanging at airports due to less favorable rates.

Using Cards: Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in major hotels, malls, and restaurants but carry cash for markets or small shops.

Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is not customary in Brunei and may even be refused. Service charges are usually included in bills, especially in restaurants and hotels.

Malay is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in business and tourism.
Helpful phrases:

  • “Selamat pagi” (Good morning)

  • “Berapa harga ini?” (How much is this?)

  • “Tolong” (Please)

  • “Terima kasih” (Thank you)
    Pro Tip: Bruneians appreciate polite and respectful conversation; a calm tone goes a long way.

Brunei is one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia with very low crime rates. Still, exercise common sense in crowded areas.

Emergency Contacts:

  • 991: Police

  • 993: Fire and Ambulance

  • 995: Emergency Medical Services

  • Keep your embassy’s contact info handy, especially if you’re a tourist.

Brunei uses 240V/50Hz with Type G plugs (three rectangular pins, like the UK). Visitors from the US or Europe will need an adapter; a voltage converter is usually not necessary for modern electronics.

Tap water in Bandar Seri Begawan is treated and generally safe to drink. Bottled water is widely available and recommended if you travel to rural areas. Restaurants will provide free tap water on request.

Many government offices and businesses close on these key holidays:

  • Jan 1: New Year’s Day

  • Feb 19 or 20: Chinese New Year (date varies)

  • July 15: Hari Raya Aidiladha (Eid al-Adha)

  • July 30: Hari Raya Aidilfitri (Eid al-Fitr)

  • Feb 23: Sultan’s Birthday

  • Dec 25: Christmas Day (less observed)

Note: Some Islamic holidays follow the lunar calendar and shift yearly.

Stores and malls: Usually open 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily.

Markets: Local markets typically open early (6:00 AM – 1:00 PM).

Banks: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM weekdays, closed on weekends.

Ambuyat: Brunei’s national dish made from sago starch, eaten with a sour and spicy dipping sauce.

Nasi Lemak: Fragrant coconut rice with sambal, egg, and anchovies.

Satay: Grilled meat skewers served with peanut sauce.

Beef Rendang: Slow-cooked spicy beef in coconut milk.

Kelupis: Glutinous rice wrapped in leaves, steamed with coconut milk.

Udang Sambal: Prawns cooked in spicy chili sauce.

Kuih: Traditional Malay sweet cakes.

Mee Goreng: Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and meat or seafood.

Tumpi: Sticky rice balls with coconut and palm sugar.

Rojak: Fresh fruit and vegetable salad with a sweet and spicy peanut sauce.

Alcohol is strictly prohibited in Brunei due to Islamic law. However, here are some popular non-alcoholic local beverages:

Teh Tarik: Pulled milk tea, a local favorite.

Air Mata Kucing: Herbal cooling drink made from longan and dried longan seeds.

Bandung: Rose syrup with milk, sweet and refreshing.

Sirap Limau: Lime-flavored syrup drink.

Coconut Water: Fresh from the coconut, widely available.

Kopi O: Black coffee, strong and bold.

Soya Bean Milk: Popular breakfast drink.

Lemongrass Tea: Refreshing and fragrant herbal infusion.

Sugarcane Juice: Sweet and natural energy booster.

Roselle Juice: Hibiscus-based, tart and sweet.

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque: Iconic golden-domed mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Kampong Ayer: The world’s largest water village, with houses on stilts.

Royal Regalia Museum: Showcasing royal artifacts and Brunei’s monarchy history.

Istana Nurul Iman: The Sultan’s palace, the world’s largest residential palace (view from outside only).

Malay Technology Museum: Traditional crafts and old village life exhibits.

Tasek Lama Recreational Park: Beautiful rainforest park near the city.

Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque: Another magnificent mosque with 29 golden domes.

Brunei Museum: Rich cultural and archaeological exhibits (check opening status).

Malay Customs and Traditions: Traditional dances and ceremonies.

Royal Ceremonial Dress: See displays of elaborate royal attire.

Ulu Temburong National Park: Pristine rainforest with canopy walks and river cruises.

Jerudong Park: Brunei’s amusement park with rides and entertainment.

Gadong Night Market: Street food, snacks, and local crafts.

Tamu Kianggeh: Local market with fresh produce and souvenirs.

Tutong and Seria Beaches: Quiet spots for relaxation and fishing.

Water Sports: Kayaking and river cruises in Kampong Ayer.

Golfing: Royal Brunei Golf Club offers a scenic course.

Cultural Performances: Traditional music and dance at cultural centers.

Birdwatching: In Ulu Temburong and other nature reserves.

Spa and Wellness: Traditional Malay massages in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Brunei Waterfront: Leisurely strolls and cafes with river views.

Local Coffee Shops: Social hubs with kopi (coffee) culture.

Gadong Commercial Area: Nightlife limited but has some casual bars and eateries.

Cultural Festivals: Attend Hari Raya Aidilfitri or Sultan’s birthday celebrations.

Shopping Malls: Times Square and The Mall for dining and casual outings.

Traditional Malay Houses: Some open to visitors for cultural experiences.

River Cruises: Evening cruises on the Brunei River for scenic city views.

Cinema: Modern cinemas showing local and international films.

Restaurants with Local Cuisine: Try fine dining at The Empire Hotel or local favorites.

Night Markets: Experience local life and street food at Gadong market.