Brunei
At a Glance
Brunei is a quiet, affluent nation with high-quality healthcare and strong public hygiene standards. The risk of infectious disease is low, but travellers should still protect against mosquito bites and stay hydrated in the tropical heat. Alcohol is restricted, so avoid importing it without checking local regulations. Tap water is generally safe in urban areas, but bottled water is still recommended for sensitive stomachs.
Golden mosques, quiet rainforests, and calm waters—Brunei is small but full of surprises.
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Go-to travel health essentials — practical, proven, and always packed.
🦟 Mosquito Protection
Strong insect repellent containing 30–50% DEET is essential, especially for daytime protection against dengue and chikungunya. Breathable long-sleeved clothing and anti-itch cream are also useful. Accommodation usually has screens or air-conditioning, but rural stays may require mosquito nets.
💩 Tummy Troubles Toolkit
Bring loperamide for diarrhoea, oral rehydration salts (ORS) for hydration, and a basic antacid. Travellers’ diarrhoea is less common than elsewhere in Southeast Asia but still possible.
☀️ Sun & Skin Care
Pack a high-SPF sunscreen (50+), an SPF lip balm, and alcohol-based hand sanitiser (60–70%). Choose quick-dry, non-perfumed products suited to humid climates.
🩹 First Aid & Essentials
Carry a basic first aid kit with antiseptic wipes, plasters, blister pads, and a small bandage. Bring a copy of your medical summary, prescriptions, and your travel insurance documents. Digital copies can be a backup.
💊 Comfort & Care
Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain or fever, an antihistamine for bites and allergies, and cold & flu medication. Long flights and air-conditioned environments can strain your immune system.
🔥 Extra Tip
If you are travelling during the rainy season (November to March), pack lightweight rain gear and water-resistant bags for electronics. In case of haze from regional fires, travellers with respiratory conditions may benefit from bringing a good quality N95 mask.
Prep Well. Travel Well. Know the Risks.
Mosquito-Borne Diseases in Brunei
Brunei’s tropical climate provides ideal conditions for mosquitoes, and mosquito-borne diseases are an important consideration for travellers. However, compared to many neighbouring countries, the modern infrastructure, well-maintained public spaces, and widespread use of screens, air-conditioning, and mosquito control programs (such as regular fogging in hotels and public areas) help to reduce everyday exposure risk, especially in urban environments.
Dengue Fever
Dengue is endemic in Brunei, with cases reported year-round and a seasonal peak during the rainy months (November to March). The Aedes mosquitoes that transmit dengue are active during the day, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon.
Chikungunya
Chikungunya virus, also spread by Aedes mosquitoes, has been detected in Brunei. Although less common than dengue, chikungunya can cause high fever and severe joint pain.
Japanese Encephalitis (JE)
Cases of Japanese encephalitis are rare, but the virus is present in some rural areas. Travellers planning extended rural stays or outdoor activities such as hiking or camping should discuss JE vaccination with their travel health provider.
Zika Virus
Zika virus transmission has been reported in Brunei. Although cases are infrequent, pregnant travellers or those planning pregnancy are advised to reconsider travel due to the risk of congenital Zika syndrome.
Malaria
Brunei is considered malaria-free. Routine malaria prophylaxis is not required.
Mosquito Bite Prevention Tips
Use insect repellent containing DEET (20–50%) on exposed skin, particularly during the day.
Wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants when outdoors.
Stay in accommodations with air-conditioning, intact window screens, or mosquito nets if staying in rural areas.
Reduce standing water near living areas to discourage mosquito breeding.
In higher-end hotels and resorts, regular pest control and fogging programs are common and contribute to lower mosquito densities.
Rabies Risk
Brunei is considered free of rabies, and routine rabies vaccination is not necessary for most travellers. Stray animals are uncommon, and the risk of animal bites is low. Travellers should still avoid handling unfamiliar animals and seek medical advice if bitten or scratched. Those transiting through or continuing travel to neighbouring countries where rabies is endemic (such as Malaysia or Indonesia) should discuss rabies vaccination with a travel health provider.
Eat Adventurously, Not Regretfully
Street Food and Food Safety in Brunei
Brunei’s food culture is lively and delicious, but very different from the bustling, chaotic street markets of Vietnam, Thailand, or Cambodia. Street food culture is low-key, shaped by the country’s wealth, strong food safety regulations, and Islamic cultural influences.
You’ll find food markets like the Gadong Night Market in Bandar Seri Begawan, but they are typically cleaner, more orderly, and smaller than street markets elsewhere in Southeast Asia.
Food hygiene is generally good, but basic precautions still apply — hot, freshly cooked food is the safest option.
While Brunei shares many culinary traditions with Malaysia and Indonesia, its Islamic culture shapes food practices strongly:
No pork is served. All food is halal.
Dairy is used sparingly, and refrigeration is reliable in hotels and modern eateries.
Street vendors and markets focus heavily on rice-based, grilled, or deep-fried dishes, which are generally safer than raw foods.
Local Specialties to Try:
Nasi Katok – simple rice and fried chicken with spicy sambal, the ultimate Bruneian comfort food.
Ambuyat – a sticky sago starch dish eaten with sour sauces, unique to Brunei and definitely worth trying if you’re feeling adventurous.
Ayam Penyet – smashed, marinated fried chicken served with sambal.
Satay – grilled skewered meat, freshly cooked and widely available.
Kueh – colourful bite-sized cakes often flavoured with coconut or pandan.
Importantly, Brunei has very little exotic food risk — you won’t commonly encounter dishes like raw blood soups, fermented seafoods, or insects, which can be a concern elsewhere in Southeast Asia.
Alcohol Laws in Brunei
Brunei enforces strict alcohol laws based on Islamic principles:
The sale and public consumption of alcohol are banned.
Non-Muslim travellers over 17 years old may import a small amount for personal use:
Up to 2 litres of spirits or 12 cans of beer per adult.
Alcohol must be declared at customs upon arrival.There are no bars and no alcohol served in restaurants, hotels, or public venues.
Drinking in public or being visibly intoxicated is illegal and can result in heavy fines or penalties. Alcohol should only be consumed privately, such as inside your hotel room or private accommodation.
✅ Travel Tip:
Plan ahead if you wish to bring alcohol — know the customs limits and declare it honestly.
Embrace Brunei’s vibrant mocktail, fresh juice, and coffee culture, which offers plenty of refreshing alternatives.
Beyond the Basics: Unique Health Risks
Every destination has its own surprises. Here are the health risks that don’t always make it into standard travel advice—but are important to know before you go.
Same Bugs, New Borders (Brunei Edition)
Respiratory Infections
Travellers should be up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations. Seasonal influenza circulates year-round due to the tropical climate, so flu vaccination is recommended, particularly for travellers with chronic health conditions.
Tuberculosis (TB) exists in Brunei, but rates are much lower than in many Southeast Asian neighbours. Healthcare workers or those planning long-term stays in healthcare or crowded environments should still consider pre- and post-travel TB screening.
Air Quality
While generally good, Brunei can experience haze from Indonesian forest fires during the dry season (typically June–September).
Travellers with asthma or respiratory conditions should monitor air quality indexes and limit outdoor activities if haze levels rise.
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When it doesn't go to plan
Healthcare Access in Brunei
Brunei has one of the highest healthcare standards in Southeast Asia. The public health system is well-resourced, modern, and accessible to citizens, with services either free or heavily subsidised. While public hospitals like Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital in Bandar Seri Begawan offer good quality care, many travellers prefer to use private facilities for convenience and shorter waiting times.
Private hospitals and clinics, such as the Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC), provide excellent outpatient and specialist services, often with English-speaking staff. Facilities are clean, modern, and equipped to international standards.
However, while general healthcare is very good, access to highly specialised care or emergency medical evacuation (for example, for complex trauma, cardiac surgery, or intensive care) may still require transfer to nearby regional centres such as Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. Travellers are advised to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospitalisation costs.
Pharmacies are widespread and well-stocked in urban areas, with both prescription and over-the-counter medicines available. Brand-name and generic drugs are available, but travellers should still carry a sufficient supply of their own medications, along with prescriptions and generic names, to avoid disruptions.
Before you go
Before travelling to Brunei, it’s important to ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date. Although Brunei is a low-risk destination compared to many neighbouring countries, vaccinations provide important protection, particularly if you're planning rural activities or extended stays.
Essential Routine Vaccines
All travellers should be up to date with:
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
• Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (Tdap)
• Polio
• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Influenza (seasonal flu)
• COVID-19 (including boosters if eligible)
Infants aged 6–11 months may be advised to receive an early dose of MMR before travel. This dose does not replace the regular childhood schedule but provides additional protection.
Recommended Travel Vaccines
Depending on your activities, travel plans, and underlying health, your doctor may also recommend:
Hepatitis A – Spread through contaminated food or water; advisable for most travellers.
Typhoid – Risk is low but may be considered for longer stays or rural travel.
Japanese Encephalitis (JE) – Only recommended for travellers planning extended time in rural areas or outdoor activities during the wet season.
Hepatitis B – Considered for travellers who may require medical care, or who may have close contact with the local population.
Influenza – Seasonal flu is present year-round in tropical climates; vaccination is particularly important for at-risk travellers.
Yellow Fever – Entry Requirement
Brunei does not have yellow fever. However, proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission, including long stopovers or airport transits.
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Traffic Trouble: More Than Just a Travel Inconvenience
Road Traffic Safety in Brunei
Brunei’s road infrastructure is modern and well-maintained, with orderly traffic and strict enforcement of speed limits and seatbelt use. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road.
Key risks to note:
Pedestrian infrastructure can be limited outside urban centres; footpaths may be uneven or poorly lit.
Local driving habits vary — occasional speeding and sudden lane changes occur, despite generally low traffic volumes.
Wildlife crossings, especially monkeys, are possible in rural areas.
Using Motorbikes and Ride Services:
Motorcycles are common, but travellers are advised against hiring motorbikes unless highly experienced and insured. Ride-sharing apps like Grab exist but are limited; taxis or private cars are safer options. Always wear seatbelts.
Crossing Roads:
Drivers may not always yield to pedestrians at crossings. Cross cautiously at marked areas and maintain a steady pace.
Weather
Heat and Humidity
Brunei’s tropical climate means high heat and humidity year-round, with temperatures typically between 28–32°C. Travellers are at risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and sunburn.
Plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Wear light clothing, apply SPF 50+ sunscreen, and stay hydrated.
Heavy Rain and Flooding
The rainy season runs from November to March, bringing short, heavy downpours that can cause flash flooding in low-lying areas.
Monitor weather forecasts and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.
Haze and Air Quality
During the dry season (June–September), Brunei can experience haze from regional forest fires.
Travellers with asthma or heart conditions should check AQI reports and limit outdoor activity if air quality worsens.
N95 masks can be useful during haze periods.
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Sexual Health & HIV
Brunei has a low overall HIV prevalence, and sexually transmitted infections are less common compared to much of the region. However, access to services like HIV PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is extremely limited, and sexual health resources are more conservative than in countries like Singapore or Thailand.
Important note:
Brunei has very strict laws regarding same-sex relationships.
Homosexuality is illegal under the Syariah Penal Code, and while severe penalties exist in the legal code, active prosecutions are rare. However, the risk is real enough that LGBT travellers should be extremely discreet in public and private settings.
Public displays of affection (for any couples, regardless of orientation) are discouraged and could attract attention or fines.