Brunei – Buses and Trams

What is the overall standard of bus services in Brunei, and how do they compare to systems in other countries?

Brunei offers a single form of public land transport — the Franchise Bus, previously referred to as the Purple Bus — which represents the most economical way to travel through the city, with a typical fare of BND 1 per journey. The vehicles themselves tend to be modern and come equipped with air conditioning, which is a considerable comfort given the country’s hot and humid equatorial conditions.

Measured against international standards, Brunei stands out for its exceptionally high rates of private car ownership and dependence. This cultural tendency fundamentally shapes the nature of the bus network: it functions largely as an affordable option for those without access to a private vehicle — including lower-income workers and recent arrivals — rather than as a robust commuter system serving the broader population.

Placed alongside the comprehensive, high-frequency bus networks in cities like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or major European capitals, Brunei’s offering is significantly more restricted in terms of route density, service frequency, and operating hours. Where integrated transit systems in larger cities operate buses every few minutes with seamless connections to rail or tram lines, Brunei’s buses run on a simpler, more spaced-out schedule. Services generally arrive every 30 to 60 minutes, which means that planning ahead and building in extra time is essential — something any expat should factor in when considering whether public buses can serve as their main means of daily transport.

While Brunei’s transport network is less extensive than those found in larger nations, it does offer a workable means of getting around for both residents and visitors. Expats accustomed to dense, well-connected urban transit will need to recalibrate their expectations in order to make the most of what is available.

What range of bus services is available in Brunei — how do local urban bus networks differ from intercity or long-distance services, and which operators run them?

All forms of land transport in Brunei are planned and regulated by the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC), with the Land Transport Department (JPD) acting as the government body responsible for ensuring that transport services across the country remain accessible, effective, safe, and of an acceptable standard. Bus services function within this structure through a franchised operator arrangement.

The Franchise Bus network is organised into six colour-coded lines. The Eastern Line (royal blue) and the Northern Line (green) both pass through the international airport, making them particularly handy for newly arrived expats navigating their first few days in the country. The nerve centre of the entire system is the Bandar Seri Begawan Central Bus Terminal, from which a web of colour-coded routes fans out, primarily serving BSB and reaching areas such as Gadong, Berakas, and parts of the Tutong district.

Across BSB, the network comprises 27 routes with 381 bus stops in total. Services cover areas including Berakas B, Pengkalan Batu, Sengkurong, Kianggeh, Berakas A, Gadong, Kota Batu, Lumapas, Kilanas, and Mentiri. The most extensive route — line 42 — originates and terminates at BSB Terminal (Kianggeh), spanning more than 67 km across 65 stops.

The public bus service is operated by the Transport Company of Brunei Darussalam (SPAD), with routes covering major corridors across the Brunei-Muara, Tutong, and Belait districts. Intercity connections link the capital with towns such as Seria and Kuala Belait in the Belait District — the centre of Brunei’s petroleum industry — as well as Tutong. Coaches to these and other municipalities, including Tutong, Kuala Belait, and Seria, depart from the multi-storey terminal on Jalan Cator in Bandar Seri Begawan.

For travel beyond Brunei’s national borders, a cross-border coach service is also in operation. Run by Biaramas (Bus Asia), the Brunei–Miri route departs three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Passengers arriving in Miri can then connect onward to major cities throughout Sarawak, including Kuching, Bintulu, Sibu, and Sri Aman. This provides a practical overland option for expats wishing to explore Malaysian Borneo.

Where can expats find up-to-date bus timetables, routes, and fare information for Brunei, and what are the main official or operator websites and contact details?

The definitive official source for bus route information in Brunei is the Land Transport Department (JPD), which sits within the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications. Their public bus route page is accessible at jpd.gov.bn. This should always be your first port of call, as routes and operators are subject to change over time.

The government has also released an official transport application. TransportBN is a mobile app published by the Government of Brunei Darussalam that gives users access to information across all modes of transport available in the country. It can be downloaded from either the iOS App Store or Google Play and is the most convenient tool for looking up routes and departure times on the move. It should be noted that some user reviews have flagged intermittent technical problems, so verifying information against additional sources is advisable.

For live bus tracking and timetable data, the third-party application Moovit serves as a useful complement. Bus line schedules, timetables, itineraries, service hours, and departure and arrival times for Brunei are updated within the Moovit app on a real-time basis. Real-time service alerts — covering delays, route adjustments, and stop changes — are also available via the Moovit website.

The official Brunei Tourism website (bruneitourism.com) offers a helpful summary of bus services alongside other available transport options. A community-built route map derived from Land Transport Department data can also be found at bus.bruneigeekmeet.com, which is a useful visual aid when planning trips across the city.

It is worth acknowledging that published timetable data for Brunei’s buses has historically been limited in detail. While services are broadly reliable, checking the schedule ahead of any journey is important, as frequency varies by route. Build in a buffer whenever possible and always have an alternative option ready — such as the Dart ride-hailing app — should a bus fail to arrive on time.

What types of bus tickets and passes are available in Brunei — and how do prices compare?

The standard fare sits at BND 1 per trip (as of 2025), placing Brunei among the most affordable public transport systems in the whole of Southeast Asia. This flat-rate pricing applies across urban routes in BSB, meaning the cost remains the same regardless of how many stops you travel — a more straightforward arrangement than the distance-based fare structures used in places like Singapore or the United Kingdom.

On longer intercity journeys — for instance, between BSB and Seria or Kuala Belait — fares may rise above the flat urban rate, generally ranging from BND 1 to BND 2 depending on the distance covered. The bus between Seria and Kuala Belait, for example, costs BND 1 per passenger. Always confirm current fares with the driver or via the JPD website, as pricing is subject to revision.

Unlike transit networks in many other countries — such as London’s Oyster card, Sydney’s Opal card, or Singapore’s EZ-Link card — Brunei does not currently operate any integrated stored-value smart card system for bus travel. There are no day passes, weekly passes, or visitor travel cards available for the local bus network. The overwhelming majority of public transport services in Brunei operate on a cash-only basis, so carrying enough cash before you travel is essential.

For expats who ride the bus on a daily basis, a monthly pass arrangement has been reported as available at certain terminals, though current availability and conditions should be confirmed directly with the operator or at the main BSB terminal. Always verify the latest pass options with the Land Transport Department or at the Kianggeh terminal, as offerings may be updated. The JPD official website is the best starting point for current ticketing details.

How do you buy a bus ticket in Brunei — can tickets be purchased on board, at stations, online, or via apps, and are there cashless payment options?

Purchasing a bus ticket in Brunei is a simple and straightforward process, outlined step by step below:

1. Plan your route in advance. Before leaving for the bus stop, use the TransportBN app, the Moovit app, or the JPD website to identify the correct route number and colour-coded line for your intended destination.
2. Make your way to a bus stop or the Central Terminal. The BSB Central Bus Terminal, situated in the heart of the city, acts as the system’s primary hub. The majority of routes either begin or end here. You may also board at any marked stop along a given route.
3. Indicate to the driver that you wish to board. Wait at a bus stop and raise your hand as the bus approaches. In certain areas, it is also possible to hail buses from locations other than official stops.
4. Hand over your fare in cash. Payment is made directly to the driver in cash. Having small-denomination notes or exact change to hand is recommended, as drivers may not always be able to provide change.
5. Collect your ticket. Once you have paid, the driver will issue you a ticket. Hold onto this as evidence of payment for the duration of your journey.
6. Board and take a seat. Each bus displays its route number and destination on the front; confirm these details before stepping on to ensure you are on the right service.

As of 2025, there are no online booking platforms, ticket-purchasing functions within official apps, or contactless or card-based payment options on Brunei’s regular urban bus network. This stands in contrast to many regional transit systems where tap-and-go payment via stored-value card or mobile wallet is the default. Expats should always have a supply of small-denomination Brunei dollar notes whenever they intend to travel by bus.

For the cross-border Brunei–Miri coach service operated by Biaramas, it is advisable to contact the operator directly regarding ticketing, as the arrangements may differ from those of the local urban network.

Are there trams in Brunei?

Brunei has no trams. Given the country’s small geographic footprint and its well-developed road infrastructure, there is no practical basis for a tram network. Neither a metro system, a light rail line, nor any other form of urban rail transit is currently in operation anywhere in the country.

As of June 2021, a proposed light or heavy rail system referred to as the Brunei Metro had been considered for Bandar Seri Begawan. However, despite periodic official announcements over the years, no substantial development activity is currently underway. With a national population of just over 400,000, Brunei — as a microstate — has simply not reached a scale that would justify the investment required to build an urban railway.

Brunei does carry a small piece of railway history. The country’s first rail line dates back to the 1880s, when it was constructed to link the Brooketon Colliery with Muara Port. Timber tracks were later upgraded with steel rails in the early 1890s. The mine and its associated rail infrastructure fell into disuse after 1924 and have long since disappeared, leaving no trace relevant to transport today.

For day-to-day practical purposes, expats settling in Brunei should structure their transport arrangements entirely around road-based options: the public bus network, taxis, the Dart ride-hailing app, and private car ownership. There is no rail or tram system of any kind to incorporate into commuting plans.

What practical tips should expats know about using buses in Brunei?

Service hours and advance planning: Buses operate between 6:00 am and 8:00 pm. Frequency drops further on weekends and public holidays, so it is important to plan your travel carefully. If you have commitments in the evening, organise alternative transport ahead of time rather than depending on a bus that may no longer be running.

The radial layout of the network: The bus system is structured around a radial model, with the vast majority of routes converging on or departing from the Central Bus Terminal. This makes the terminal an ideal anchor point for journey planning across the capital. Unlike a grid or orbital network — common in many European cities — travelling between two suburban destinations not sharing a direct line will usually require a trip into the centre followed by a change of service.

Cash is essential: No cashless payment methods are accepted on local buses. Always carry small-denomination notes, as drivers may be unable to break larger bills. Having BND 1 coins or small notes ready before you board will speed up boarding and avoid any inconvenience.

Conduct and customs on board: When travelling on public transport, showing consideration for local customs is important. Giving up your seat to elderly passengers or pregnant women is expected. Keeping noise to a minimum also shows respect for other passengers. As a Muslim-majority country with broadly conservative social norms, Brunei’s public spaces — including buses — call for modest dress and considerate behaviour at all times.

Recognising your bus: Route numbers and destination names are displayed on the front of each bus. Getting familiar with both the route number and the colour of the line you need will allow you to identify the correct service quickly, particularly at the busy Central Terminal where numerous routes depart from adjacent bays simultaneously.

Accessibility considerations: Brunei’s bus network is relatively basic when it comes to accessibility features, especially when compared with modern systems in countries such as Japan or the Netherlands, where low-floor buses with ramps and audio-visual announcements are standard. Expats with mobility requirements should verify the accessibility provisions on specific routes directly with the operator or JPD before depending on the bus service, and may find taxis or the Dart app to be more reliable alternatives.

Ride-hailing as a complement: Dart is a locally developed transport app that functions as Brunei’s equivalent of Uber or Grab — both of which are not currently available in the country. Its fares can be competitive with those of traditional taxis, with the added benefit of app-based booking. Installing Dart on your phone helps to cover the gaps left by limited bus coverage, particularly during evenings or in residential areas with fewer services.

Getting to and from the airport by bus: The shortest route in the network, E1, runs from Brunei International Airport (Berakas A) directly to BSB Terminal (Kianggeh), a distance of just 7 km with only 2 stops. This is a very cost-effective way to reach the city centre on arrival, though current schedules should be confirmed via the TransportBN app before you travel.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a metro or underground railway in Brunei?

There is no operational metro or LRT in Brunei. While a proposed system known as the Brunei Metro has been discussed in the context of Bandar Seri Begawan, periodic official announcements over the years have not resulted in any substantial development to date. Expats should base their transport planning entirely on buses, taxis, and private vehicles.

How much does a bus ride cost in Brunei?

The Franchise Bus operates at an average fare of BND 1 per ride (as of 2025). On longer intercity routes, fares may range from BND 1 to BND 2 depending on distance. For the most current pricing, check the official JPD website or ask the driver directly, as fares are subject to change.

Can I use a contactless card or mobile payment on Brunei buses?

The vast majority of public transport services in Brunei do not accept credit or debit cards, meaning it is essential to have adequate cash with you before travelling. Unlike systems in Singapore or Hong Kong where stored-value cards are the norm, Brunei’s buses currently operate exclusively on a cash basis. Always carry small-denomination Brunei dollar notes or coins.

What time do buses stop running in Brunei?

Bus services run from 6:00 am until 8:00 pm. Services are scaled back on weekends and public holidays, so it is important to plan accordingly when travelling outside standard weekday hours. For evening journeys, the Dart app or a pre-arranged taxi are the most reliable alternatives.

Is there a bus from Brunei to Malaysia?

Yes. Biaramas (Bus Asia) operates a cross-border coach service between Brunei and Miri three times weekly, departing on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. From Miri, passengers can connect to major cities throughout Sarawak, including Kuching, Bintulu, Sibu, and Sri Aman. Current fares and schedules should be confirmed with Biaramas prior to travel.

Is there an official app I can use to plan bus journeys in Brunei?

TransportBN is an official mobile application of the Government of Brunei Darussalam, offering information across all modes of transport within the country. It is available for both iOS and Android devices. The third-party app Moovit also provides real-time tracking and route information for Bandar Seri Begawan and serves as a practical additional resource.

Do Brunei buses run to the international airport?

Yes. Both the Eastern Line (royal blue) and the Northern Line (green) serve the international airport. The E1 route specifically connects Brunei International Airport (Berakas A) with the BSB Central Terminal at Kianggeh, covering approximately 7 km with just 2 stops along the way. Check the TransportBN app for up-to-date timetable information before travelling to or from the airport.

What should I do if the bus doesn’t show up or I miss the last service?

Dart is Brunei’s home-grown ride-hailing app — the local counterpart to Uber or Grab — and offers competitive pricing compared with traditional taxis, with the added convenience of smartphone booking. Taxis in Brunei operate on a meter, with a base charge of BND 3.50 for the first minute or kilometre (as of 2025 — refer to Brunei Tourism’s official website for current figures). Having Dart installed on your phone and a taxi contact number saved is strongly recommended for every expat living in Brunei.