Brunei Darussalam: Current Travel and Safety Information for Tourists

The Federal Foreign Office has updated its travel and safety advisories for Brunei Darussalam (as of August 18, 2026). The changes are editorial in nature; however, travelers and visa applicants should take a close look at the current advisories, as they contain important information on the security situation, the climate, and country-specific rules of conduct. Overall, Brunei is considered a politically stable travel destination with a low crime rate; however, there are a few specific points that tourists should definitely be aware of.

In terms of the domestic political situation, the sultanate is considered stable, and demonstrations are uncommon. The general crime rate is also low, and violent crime is rare. Nevertheless, it is recommended to exercise the usual caution regarding petty crime: Valuables should be kept secure, important documents should ideally be backed up digitally, and special attention should be paid to personal belongings in large crowds. Cashless payments are strongly recommended over carrying large amounts of cash.

Natural hazards also pose a risk in Brunei. The country is located in a seismically active zone, so earthquakes are always a possibility. The hot and humid tropical climate brings monsoon-like rainfall and storms during the rainy seasons from September through January and from May through July, which can lead to flooding and landslides. Another point to note: Crocodiles inhabit Brunei’s waters and have been spotted on beaches as well as on golf courses in Panaga and Pantai Mentiri. Anyone visiting coastal areas, the Brunei River, or coastal ponds should take relevant warnings seriously.

For getting around locally, rental cars are available, as well as a limited number of taxis and bus routes; traffic drives on the left. Important for drivers: An international driver’s license is required and is valid for only three months when used in conjunction with a national driver’s license. Anyone planning a longer trip or wishing to rent a vehicle should take this regulation into account when planning their trip.

Of particular note are the country’s cultural and legal characteristics. Brunei Darussalam is an Islamic-Malay monarchy whose laws adhere to an increasingly conservative set of Islamic values. Criticism of the Islamic religion or of the Sultan as a private individual or as the supreme religious leader constitutes a criminal offense. In addition, there is a strict ban on alcohol in public, as well as a broad ban on smoking, particularly near public buildings. Travelers should wear modest, conservative clothing, covering their shoulders, knees, and décolletage, and men should avoid wearing shorts. Yellow clothing should also be avoided, as this color is reserved for the Sultan.

In addition to general common law, Brunei also enforces stricter provisions of Sharia criminal law, with which travelers should familiarize themselves before their trip. During the fasting month of Ramadan, additional rules of conduct apply that are binding even for non-Muslims. Anyone planning a trip to Brunei Darussalam should therefore familiarize themselves not only with the current safety advisories but also with the applicable entry requirements. Our overview of visa types makes it easy to determine which visa is required for your planned stay, and you can conveniently apply online.