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Few scams

South-Eastern Asia

Tourist scams in Brunei

Brunei has low crime rates, and crime is very uncommon in Bandar Seri Begawan. No specific tourist scams are identified here; taxis have no meters, fares vary between drivers, and it helps to agree on the price before travelling.

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    Habits that keep you safe

    Taxis

    • Agree on the full fare before getting in. Taxis have no meters, and prices can differ between drivers.
    • Arrange a taxi through your hotel or call a taxi service. Finding one on the street can be difficult.
    • Confirm the destination and currency when agreeing on a fare.
    • Check bus routes and your return journey in advance. Transport advice can be inconsistent, and buses in Bandar Seri Begawan finish early.

    Money

    • Check which currency a price refers to. The word ringgit can mean the Brunei dollar or the Malaysian ringgit.
    • Brunei dollars and Singapore dollars are interchangeable at a 1:1 rate. You do not need to exchange Singapore cash just to use it in Brunei.
    • Carry clean, undamaged Singapore notes. Many shops refuse notes with tears, stains or markings.
    • Confirm the rate before paying with Malaysian ringgit. It may be accepted at an unfavourable rate.
    • Count your change before leaving the counter.

    Cards and ATMs

    • Plan your cash withdrawal at Brunei International Airport. ATMs are landside at departures, with none airside or at arrivals.
    • Cover your PIN and decline help from strangers when using an ATM.
    • Turn on card transaction alerts and keep your card issuer's contact details available.

    Your belongings

    • Keep your phone, wallet and travel documents secure, even though crime rates are low.
    • Keep a separate copy of important documents.
    • Check that you have all your bags before leaving a taxi or bus.

    Nights out

    • Avoid illicit alcohol offers, including drinks described as special tea.
    • Do not drink alcohol in public. Public consumption is prohibited.

    Questions

    Are tourist scams common in Brunei?

    Brunei has low crime rates, and crime is very uncommon in Bandar Seri Begawan. No specific tourist scam is identified here. Normal care with money and belongings is still sensible.

    Is a taxi without a meter a warning sign?

    No. Taxis in Brunei have no meters. Drivers use fixed prices for many journeys or quote a fare for other trips. Prices can vary, so agree on the total before leaving.

    How much should an airport taxi to central Bandar Seri Begawan cost?

    The listed guide price is around US$25 for a journey of about 20 minutes. Confirm the fare and currency with the driver before getting in.

    Can I use Singapore dollars without exchanging them?

    Yes. Singapore dollars and Brunei dollars are interchangeable at a 1:1 rate. Carry clean notes, as many shops refuse Singapore notes with small tears, stains or markings.

    What does ringgit mean when someone quotes a price?

    It can refer to the Brunei dollar, but it can also mean Malaysian ringgit. Ask which currency the person means before paying. Malaysian ringgit has a different value and may be accepted at an unfavourable rate.

    Can I withdraw cash when I arrive at Brunei International Airport?

    There are ATMs landside at departures. There are none airside or at arrivals, so plan where you will get cash.

    Can I rely on transport directions from one person?

    People are generally helpful, but transport advice can be inconsistent. Check the route, fare and return service against route boards or another reliable source before setting off.

    Are any markets or neighbourhoods identified as scam hotspots?

    No named places are identified here as hotspots for scams, pickpockets or touts. Keep your belongings secure as a normal precaution.

    Should I accept an offer of special tea containing alcohol?

    Avoid it. Some restaurants offer illicit alcohol under that name. This is a legal risk, rather than an identified scam. Drinking alcohol in public is prohibited.

    What should I do if I lose money to fraud or theft?

    Get somewhere safe, save the evidence and report it to the police. Contact your bank immediately if a card or account is involved. Keep the report details for your insurer, and contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing.

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