Brunei Darussalam
UTC+8 (Brunei Darussalam Time)
No daylight saving time observed
Brunei Dollar (BND)
Symbol: B$
Pegged at par with Singapore Dollar (SGD)
January 1, 1984 (from the UK)
National Day: February 23
Sultanate since the 14th century
Visa-Free Countries
Visa on Arrival Countries
E-Visa Countries
Visa Required Countries
Culture
Brunei’s culture centers on “Melayu Islam Beraja” (Malay Islamic Monarchy), blending Malay tradition, Islamic practice, and the Sultanate’s royal heritage.
Key elements include:
- Royal traditions: Ceremonies around the Sultan’s birthday and National Day.
- Islamic practices: Five daily prayers, Ramadan observance, Eid celebrations.
- Traditional arts: Silverware, brassware, Jong Sarat weaving, wood carving.
- Architecture: Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Kampong Ayer stilt houses.
Multiculturalism is visible in Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, and other festivals.
Bruneian cuisine highlights:
- Ambuyat: Sago starch dish with side condiments.
- Nasi Katok: Rice, fried chicken & spicy sauce.
- Beef Rendang: Slow‑cooked in coconut milk and spices.
- Kelupis: Glutinous rice in nyirik leaves.
- Kuih: Sweet & savory traditional snacks.
Alcohol is prohibited under Sharia law—Brunei enforces a “dry” policy for sales.
Tourism & Best Sites to Visit
Explore Brunei’s blend of Islamic heritage, royal architecture, and rainforests.
Transportation
Brunei is easily navigable by car and taxi; public buses are limited. Water taxis serve Kampong Ayer.
- Taxis: Negotiate fare or book via hotels.
- Car rental: Left‑side driving, IDP accepted.
- Buses: Bandar Seri Begawan routes; limited off‑hours.
- Water taxis: Essential for Kampong Ayer visits.
- Tour services: Often include transport for Ulu Temburong.
Note: No rail network; plan central stays and pre‑book tours.
Border crossings: Road links to Sarawak at Sungai Tujuh and Kuala Lurah; ferries to Limbang/Lawas.
Airports
Brunei International Airport (BWN) in Berakas is your sole gateway.
- Renovated terminal with duty‑free, dining, prayer rooms, free Wi‑Fi.
Airlines: Royal Brunei Airlines (to Asia, Middle East, London), plus Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines, AirAsia, Cebu Pacific.
Ground access: Taxis (fixed rates), car rental counters, hotel shuttles, limited public bus.
Visa & Travel Information
Many nationals enjoy visa‑free or visa‑on‑arrival access; proof of onward travel and 6‑month passport validity required.
- Passport validity: ≥6 months beyond departure.
- Stay length: 14–90 days, per nationality.
- Onward ticket: Often requested on arrival.
- Extensions: Via Bandar Seri Begawan Immigration Dept.
Travel Restrictions by Nationality
| Country/Region | Entry | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| ASEAN | Visa Free | 14–30 days |
| USA, UK, EU, Aus, NZ, JP, KR | Visa Free | 90 days |
| China, Taiwan, India | Visa on Arrival | 14 days |
| Most Africa & Middle East | Visa Required | Varies |
Cultural notes: Modest dress, no alcohol sales, respect Ramadan fast, avoid public affection.
Best time: Feb–Apr for drier weather; rain possible year‑round.
Health & safety: Very safe; basic tropical precautions advised; travel insurance recommended.
