Brunei
Safety and security
Terrorism
There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
Terrorism in Brunei
Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Brunei, attacks cannot be ruled out.
Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreigners. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
Crime
Protecting your belongings
Crime levels are low, but there are occasional incidents of petty crime against tourists as well as house burglaries. You should:
- take care of your passport
- avoid carrying valuables with you
- not leave possessions in unattended vehicles, even if out of sight
Laws and cultural differences
Brunei is an Islamic country. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Make sure that your actions do not cause offence, especially during the holy month of Ramadan. There may be serious penalties for doing something that might not be illegal in the UK but is in Brunei.
Places of business and offices, including shops and restaurants, shut between midday and 2pm every Friday for prayers.
Friday is a non-working day for government offices and local schools. They open on Saturdays instead.
Ramadan
Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, do not eat, drink or smoke in public during fasting hours.
You should also dress modestly. For example, do not wear shorts in government and public buildings such as health centres.
Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.
Criticism of the Bruneian Royal Family
His Majesty The Sultan and other members of the Bruneian Royal Family are highly revered and public criticism of them causes great offence.
Relationships outside marriage
Adultery and closeness in private between an unmarried man and woman is illegal if one person is a Muslim.
Pornographic material
Possession of pornographic material is illegal.
Firearms, ammunition and explosives
Brunei has very strict laws against the possession of firearms, blank or live ammunition and explosives (including fireworks and firecrackers). Do not carry these items or replicas into Brunei.
LGBT+ travellers
Same-sex sexual activity is illegal.
Read advice for LGBT+ travellers.
Illegal drugs penalties
There are severe penalties for drug offences in Brunei including, in some cases, the death penalty. Other crimes may be punished by caning and lengthy prison sentences.
Alcohol laws and bans
The sale of alcohol and tobacco in Brunei is illegal. Non-Muslims aged 18 and over may import a limited amount of alcohol. This must be declared to the customs authorities on arrival and drunk in private.
Smoking and e-cigarette bans
Smoking is illegal in certain public places, including shopping and eating areas, bus stops and stations, car parks and near buildings.
Outdoor activities and adventure tourism
Hiking and mountaineering
Police advise against hiking alone in the forest, including at well-known recreation areas. It’s easy to get lost when visiting the rainforest. You should:
- use recognised and well-known guides
- stay on paths and trails, rather than pushing through the undergrowth
- always carry food and water with you
- consider carrying a whistle to attract attention and a torch
- wear closed toe shoes
Wildlife
Saltwater crocodiles
People have been attacked and killed by saltwater crocodiles while fishing on riverbanks around Bandar. Crocodiles have also been seen on beaches and in the ponds of the Panaga golf course. You should:
- pay attention to signs warning of crocodiles
- stay away from the water’s edge
- seek local advice
Venomous snakes
There are a number of venomous snakes in Brunei. If you see a snake while outdoors:
- keep your distance
- wait for the snake to move away
If you find a snake indoors or outside in a confined space (like a garden), call fire and rescue (‘bomba’) on 995.
Transport risks
Road travel
If you are planning to drive in Brunei, see information on driving abroad.
You can drive in Brunei with a valid UK driving licence for up to 90 days. You’ll then need to apply for a Bruneian licence from the Land Transport Department.
If your vehicle is not registered in Brunei, you can only buy motor fuel at 14 designated filling stations, to a maximum of 250 litres. Petrol stations will only sell premium “V-Power” fuel to foreign cars. Payments are usually made in cash.
Driving standards are different from the UK. Vehicles do not always stop at red lights or pedestrian crossings. It is common for drivers not to use seatbelts or child car seats and to speed. Road surfaces are uneven and accidents are common. Be aware that animals such as monitor lizards, snakes and monkeys could be on the roads.
If you’re involved in a road accident as a driver, do not leave the scene or move the vehicle until the police arrive.
Sea travel
Small boats carry passengers across to the water village in Bandar and along the rivers on cruises. Before taking one:
- make sure they have adequate life jackets for all passengers, including children
- keep hands inside the boat, as there are river crocodiles
If you’re taking a longer trip, for example, a wildlife cruise:
- seek local recommendations
- arrange your trip in advance