Southeast Asia
Brunei
Quiet, very safe and green: rainforest in Temburong, the Kampong Ayer water village and grand mosques. No nightlife, no alcohol for sale and sparse buses; works well as a short stop.
- US travel advisoryLevel 1Exercise normal precautionsDetails
- Visa56 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyBNDUS$1 ≈ B$1.28Details
- Price level35%of US prices (World Bank PPP)
- English4/5Widely spoken
- PlugsType G240 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency993Police 993 · Ambulance 991 · Fire 995
- Tap waterFilter or boilMains water is treated to a good standard, but many residents filter or boil it, especially in older buildings.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedEnforcement is rare, but there is no visible scene and cross-dressing has been fined.Details
- Internet86 MbpsMedian fixed broadband · mobile 254 MbpsDetails
- DrivingOn the leftA valid foreign licence works for up to 90 days; add an IDP if it isn't in English.
Where to go in Brunei
1 place with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bandar Seri BegawanCapital city | 5/5 | $1,950–2,970 | Feb–May | 37/100 |
When to visit Brunei
Hot and humid all year. February–April is usually driest; the heaviest rain falls from October to January. Ramadan changes opening hours.
Good to know
Entry
- Submit the e-Arrival card at imm.gov.bn before travel; airlines may ask for it at check-in.
- Complete the Ministry of Health health declaration before or on arrival.
- Non-Muslims 17+ may bring limited alcohol: declare it (Customs.BN app or at arrival) and drink only in private.
- Land borders with Sarawak and Sabah aren't open 24 hours; check your entry and exit stamps.
Laws visitors break by accident
- No alcohol is sold; drinking in public is illegal.
- Eating, drinking or smoking in public during Ramadan fasting hours is illegal.
- Criticising the Sultan or royal family can lead to prosecution.
Etiquette
- Shops and restaurants close 12–2pm on Fridays for prayers.
- Dress modestly; cover arms and legs in mosques and government buildings.
- Use your right hand to give and eat; point with your thumb.
- Remove shoes before entering homes and mosques.
Tipping
Not expected; upmarket hotels and restaurants may add a service charge.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- Brunei Immigration and National Registration Department
- Brunei e-Arrival card portal
- UK FCDO travel advice: Brunei
- Brunei Tourism
- Speedtest Global Index: Brunei
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.