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Moving to Brunei | Expat Exchange
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Moving to Brunei

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 07, 2024

Summary: Many expats and digital nomads move to Brunei for its low cost of living, excellent healthcare system, and high quality of life. Additionally, Brunei is a safe and peaceful country with a diverse culture and friendly people. People can find a place to live in Brunei by searching online for rental properties, or by asking around in the local community. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Brunei are Bandar Seri Begawan, Kuala Belait, and Seria.

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What do I need to know before moving to Brunei?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Brunei, they said:

"Brunei is a small country located on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. It is a Muslim-majority country and the official language is Malay. Expats should be aware that Brunei is a conservative country and should respect local customs and traditions. It is important to note that alcohol is prohibited in Brunei and public displays of affection are frowned upon. Expats should also be aware that Brunei is a relatively expensive country to live in, and the cost of living is higher than in many other countries in the region. Additionally, Brunei has a tropical climate with high humidity and temperatures, so expats should be prepared for hot and humid weather. Finally, expats should be aware that Brunei is a relatively safe country, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community," commented one expat who made the move to Brunei.

How do I find a place to live in Brunei?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Brunei is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings of apartments, houses, and other types of rental properties in Brunei. Additionally, you can also search for rental listings in local newspapers and classifieds. Additionally, you can also ask friends and family who live in Brunei for recommendations. Finally, you can also contact real estate agents in Brunei who specialize in rental properties," explained one expat living in Brunei.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Brunei?

"Expat homes and apartments in Brunei tend to be modern and comfortable, with air conditioning and other amenities. Many expats choose to live in gated communities, which offer a safe and secure environment. Expat homes and apartments often come with a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, gyms, and other recreational facilities. Expats can also find a variety of housing options, from high-end luxury apartments to more affordable options," remarked one expat in Brunei.

What is the average cost of housing in Brunei?

If you are thinking about moving to Brunei, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Brunei is generally quite high, with most properties costing significantly more than the average salary. Renting a property in Brunei can be expensive, with prices ranging from around $1,000 to $3,000 per month for a basic apartment. Buying a property in Brunei is also expensive, with the average cost of a house being around $500,000," explained one expat living in Brunei.

Should I buy or rent a home in Brunei?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Brunei, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Brunei can be a great investment, as the country has a stable economy and a low cost of living. However, it is important to consider the cost of purchasing a home in Brunei, as well as the cost of upkeep and maintenance. Renting a home in Brunei can be a more cost-effective option, as it allows you to enjoy the benefits of living in Brunei without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting a home in Brunei can provide you with more flexibility, as you can move to a different location if your circumstances change. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Brunei should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," explained one expat living in Brunei.

What should I pack when moving to Brunei?

We asked people living in Brunei to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Brunei, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Bring lightweight, breathable clothing that is appropriate for the hot and humid climate. Bring a few items of formal clothing for special occasions. Pack a few items of traditional clothing to show respect for the local culture. Bring a good supply of sunscreen, insect repellent, and other items to protect yourself from the sun and bugs. Bring a few items of entertainment such as books, music, and movies to help you adjust to the new environment. Finally, make sure to bring any necessary documents such as passports, visas, and other important paperwork," replied a member in Brunei.

What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Brunei?

We asked people in Brunei if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"None that I can remember. We tried very hard to be careful from the start and learned to study the culture and get information from all sources. People are still generally easy to talk to and cooperative if you need assistance to understand their culture. They appreciate your efforts to conform," replied a member in Bandar Seri Begawan.

"It is important to be respectful of Brunei's culture and customs when visiting the country. It is considered rude to show disrespect to the Sultan or the royal family, so it is important to avoid making any negative comments about them. Additionally, it is important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of local religious customs and to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during Ramadan. Finally, it is important to be respectful of local customs and to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion," commented one expat who made the move to Brunei.

Why do people move to Brunei?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Brunei, they responded:

"Brunei is an attractive destination for expats due to its low cost of living, excellent healthcare system, and high standard of living. The country also offers a safe and secure environment, with a low crime rate and a strong sense of community. Additionally, Brunei is a culturally diverse nation, with a rich history and a variety of attractions, from its stunning beaches to its vibrant nightlife. Finally, the country's strong economy and political stability make it an ideal place to live and work," stated one expat who made the move to Brunei.

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How are healthcare services Brunei?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Brunei, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Brunei are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health and is funded by the government. It provides a range of services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and preventive health services. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Brunei can use the public healthcare system by registering with the Ministry of Health and obtaining a medical card. They may also be able to access private healthcare services, depending on their insurance coverage," wrote one expat living in Brunei.

What are medical services in Brunei like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Brunei, they replied:

"Brunei offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including both public and private healthcare. The public healthcare system is free for citizens and permanent residents, and provides a wide range of services, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. Private healthcare is also available, and is generally of a high standard. Brunei also has a number of specialist medical centers, such as the Brunei Cardiac Centre and the Brunei Eye Centre, which provide advanced medical care. In addition, Brunei has a number of international hospitals, such as the Jerudong Park Medical Centre, which offer a range of medical services," remarked one expat in Brunei.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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