Is cash still widely used?
Moderately. Brunei has good card infrastructure at most businesses in the capital. Cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Local food stalls, tamu (markets), and smaller vendors still prefer cash. The Singapore dollar is also accepted at par with the Brunei dollar.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are widely available in Bandar Seri Begawan. BAIDURI and Standard Chartered Brunei machines accept foreign cards.
- Fees are around $5 BND per withdrawal for foreign cards
- Good availability in the capital; reasonable in Seria and Kuala Belait
- Singapore dollars are accepted at 1:1 parity
Card acceptance
Very good at tourist-facing businesses. Visa and Mastercard accepted at most hotels, malls, and larger restaurants. Local food courts and markets prefer cash.
Tips for travelers
- Brunei is very safe and affordable — one of Southeast Asia’s hidden gems
- Alcohol is prohibited for Muslims and heavily restricted for non-Muslims
- The Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is one of Asia’s most beautiful
- Tipping is not customary in Brunei