Brunei – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Brunei, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Brunei’s international country code is +673. To place a call to Brunei from abroad, dial your country’s international access code, then 673, followed by the relevant area code and the subscriber’s number. All telephone numbers within Brunei are seven digits in length.

Historically, Brunei used area codes comprising a ‘0’ and a single digit before the subscriber number — for instance, 02 for Bandar Seri Begawan, 03 for Seria and Kuala Belait, 04 for Tutong, and 05 for Temburong. When making domestic calls within Brunei, these single-digit area codes are still in use, but callers from outside the country should omit the leading zero. As a practical example, a Bandar Seri Begawan landline with the local number XXXXXXX would be reached internationally by dialling +673 2 XXXXXXX.

The table below sets out the main area codes alongside the regions they serve:

Area codes in Brunei Darussalam are single-digit. Mobile numbers operate under separate number ranges defined by the National Numbering Plan and are not tied to any geographic area code. When calling a Bruneian mobile number from overseas, simply dial +673 followed by the complete seven-digit mobile number — no area code is needed. Emergency short codes — Police 993, Fire 995, Ambulance 991, and Search and Rescue 998 — are dialled as local numbers without any country code.

Who are the major landline providers in Brunei, and how can you contact them?

Three telecommunications companies operate in Brunei Darussalam — Datastream Digital (DST) Sdn Bhd, Imagine Sdn Bhd, and Progresif Sdn Bhd — each offering both fixed and mobile services to customers. All three deliver fixed-line voice services, typically bundled alongside home broadband, making use of the shared fibre infrastructure maintained by UNN. UNN was established on 4 December 2018 to assume responsibility for all network infrastructure, consolidating and modernising the transferred assets in order to supply wholesale telecommunications services.

One important consideration for new residents: a fixed telephone line subscription is generally required to enable home broadband. This means that rather than being an optional extra, a landline tends to come as part of the internet package. It is also worth noting that UNN does not supply telephone handsets to customers, so you should purchase your own set from one of the many shops around Brunei ahead of the technician’s installation visit.

The three providers and their primary contact details appear in the table below. Given that pricing and plan availability change from time to time, always consult the official websites for the most current information.

DST positions itself as Brunei’s leading telco, with services extending across the Brunei Muara, Tutong, Belait, and Temburong districts. Imagine, which previously traded as TelBru (Telekom Brunei Berhad), once dominated the fixed-line market, though competitive dynamics among all three operators have shifted considerably since the introduction of the shared UNN infrastructure. For up-to-date pricing on fixed-line packages, visit each provider’s official website or drop into a branch in person, as tariffs are revised on a regular basis.

The national regulator overseeing all telecoms providers in Brunei is the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry (AITI). Details on consumer rights and regulatory matters can be found at the AITI website: aiti.gov.bn.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Brunei, and how can you contact them?

Mobile services in Brunei are provided by the same three operators — DST, Imagine (TelBru), and Progresif — each offering prepaid and postpaid plans. Since 2020, all three have shared the same physical network infrastructure, which means coverage quality is broadly consistent across operators. This sets Brunei apart from larger countries where signal strength can differ markedly depending on which provider you choose; here, the decision between operators is driven mainly by plan pricing and customer experience rather than by coverage differences.

A number of resellers and Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) also offer mobile services in Brunei by leasing capacity from the main operators. These include BIBD NEXGEN — a mobile offering from leading local bank BIBD that runs on the Progresif network — and Vava, a data-oriented service built on the Imagine network.

4G/LTE networks blanket the majority of the country, with 5G progressively being rolled out in urban centres. To access 5G services, customers must sign up to a 5G-enabled plan with their preferred operator — DST, Imagine, or Progresif — and use a compatible handset. Devices supporting 700MHz band n28, 1800MHz band n3, and 3500MHz band n78 are able to take full advantage of 5G connectivity in Brunei Darussalam.

Among the major operators, Progresif has established a strong reputation for 4G and 5G performance and data speeds, while DST provides reliable overall connectivity. Coverage in rural areas and the Temburong district may be less uniform, though UNN’s ongoing infrastructure expansion is steadily narrowing those gaps. It is advisable to review each provider’s coverage maps on their respective official websites before committing to a plan.

As of 2024–2025, prepaid SIM cards from all three providers are available at accessible price points, but plan details and tariffs are updated frequently — visit official websites or retail stores for current figures.

How do I get a landline connected in Brunei?

Arranging a fixed-line telephone connection in Brunei is a reasonably uncomplicated process, though you will deal with one of the three service providers — DST, Progresif, or Imagine — rather than with UNN directly. Your chosen provider determines your plan options and pricing, while the actual physical installation is coordinated through UNN.

1. Choose a provider and plan: Browse the official websites of DST (dst.com.bn), Progresif (progresif.com), or Imagine (imagine.com.bn) to compare fixed-line and broadband bundle options. Because a landline subscription is generally a prerequisite for home internet, most plans are structured as combined packages.
2. Prepare your documents: You may refer to the website or social media pages of DST, Imagine, and Progresif for their specific requirements when registering for services; however, in general, there is a standard set of documentation that is usually requested during registration. IC holders are typically asked to supply a valid identity card, proof of residential address (such as a tenancy agreement or recent utility bill), and a completed application form. Expats holding work passes should bring their passport together with their employment pass or residency permit.
3. Submit your application: Applications can be made through the provider’s website, over the phone, or in person at a retail outlet or service centre. Visiting in person is the surest way to confirm any deposit requirements and to get an accurate sense of current processing times.
4. Schedule installation: Following approval, a UNN technician will be dispatched to your property to complete the physical connection. Installation timelines in Brunei vary depending on the provider and the type of service subscribed to; on occasion same-day installation is achievable, while other circumstances may mean waiting several days.
5. Obtain a telephone set: UNN does not provide customers with a telephone set. You may purchase your own telephone set from a variety of shops in Brunei before the technicians arrive at your home for installation.
6. Activate and test: Once the line is installed, make a test call to confirm it is working. Should any problems arise, reach out to your provider’s support team — DST on 151, Imagine on 111, or Progresif on 177.

Whether you are renting or own your home, the application process follows the same general path, though tenants should speak to their landlord beforehand as some properties may already have active lines or particular wiring configurations in place. Deposit requirements differ by provider and are not always listed on provider websites — confirm these details directly with the operator you choose. For additional guidance, the AITI website at aiti.gov.bn is a useful resource.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Brunei?

Acquiring a mobile SIM card in Brunei — on either a prepaid or postpaid basis — is a straightforward exercise that can usually be completed on your first day in the country. The procedure closely resembles what you might encounter elsewhere in Southeast Asia, such as in Malaysia or Singapore: present your identification at a shop or kiosk, register your SIM, and you are up and running.

On arrival in Brunei, SIM cards can be purchased from a variety of locations, including provider retail branches in major towns and cities, sales counters at Brunei International Airport, some convenience outlets such as 7-Eleven, and a range of mobile phone shops and authorised resellers operating throughout the country.

All SIM cards sold in Brunei must be registered against the buyer’s identity document. Prepaid and postpaid SIM cards are available at Progresif stores across Brunei (with online purchase and home delivery also on offer), at DST branches (bring proof of identity), and through Imagine outlets. As a general guide:

• Prepaid SIMs: Available to anyone, including short-stay visitors and newly arrived expats who do not yet hold permanent residency. A valid passport is ordinarily sufficient for tourists and recent arrivals. Tourist prepaid SIM packs offering local rates are also sold by the main operators, making them a convenient choice for brief visits.
• Postpaid contracts: These typically require a local identity card (IC) or, for foreign nationals, a valid residency or work pass in addition to a passport. Newcomers who have not yet obtained their residency documents may find it more practical to begin with a prepaid plan and migrate to postpaid once the paperwork is in order.

A Bruneian SIM card costs approximately BND 8 from Imagine and BND 10 from DST and Progresif in their stores (as of 2024–2025; verify current prices on each provider’s official website). DST and Progresif also sell tourist SIM cards for BND 15. Unlike markets where prepaid SIMs lapse within days of purchase unless topped up, Brunei’s prepaid plans are generally tied to the validity window of the data or credit bundle you buy — consult your chosen provider for the specific terms that apply.

For postpaid contracts, the sign-up process is comparable to that in many other countries: you will undergo a basic credit assessment or be asked to place a deposit, agree to a monthly billing arrangement, and may have the option of a subsidised handset bundled with the plan. As with any contract, read the fine print attentively before signing, paying particular attention to early termination conditions.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Brunei?

Telephone bills in Brunei can be settled through a number of channels. Most providers support online payment, allowing customers to log into their account on the provider’s website and pay using a credit or debit card — a convenient method accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.

In-person payment is also possible at the provider’s branch offices or designated payment centres, where cash, cheques, and credit or debit cards are generally accepted. Some operators additionally offer mobile payment options, enabling customers to settle outstanding amounts directly from their handset. The main payment methods available across providers include:

• Online portal or app: Sign into your provider’s website or mobile application and pay by card or linked bank account. DST, Progresif, and Imagine all maintain online account management portals for this purpose.
• In person at provider branches: Head to a service centre or retail outlet and pay at the counter — the most practical option for cash transactions.
• Internet banking / e-wallet: Many residents in Brunei use local internet banking platforms — such as those offered by Baiduri Bank or Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) — to pay telecoms and utility bills electronically. Check with your bank to see which billers are available through their platform.
• Automatic top-up (prepaid): Prepaid customers can arrange auto top-up from a linked payment card, or buy top-up vouchers at convenience stores, petrol stations, and authorised resellers across the country.

Postpaid accounts are billed on a monthly cycle. If you are on a postpaid plan, setting up automatic payment or a standing order is a sensible way to avoid late payment charges. Disconnection policies differ between operators, but providers in Brunei generally issue reminder notices before suspending a service for non-payment. While some markets cut off services very quickly after a missed payment, Brunei’s providers tend to extend a grace period — confirm the precise policy with your provider when you sign up.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Brunei as a newcomer?

Brunei’s telecoms environment is compact but well-developed, and most people settling there find it easy to get to grips with. The following pointers should help you hit the ground running:

Coverage and reliability: Brunei has a comprehensive telecommunications infrastructure encompassing telephone and mobile services, internet access, television, and radio. For every 100 residents, there are 118 mobile subscriptions, and 99% of the population uses the internet. Signal quality in Bandar Seri Begawan and the principal urban areas of Belait and Tutong is generally strong. Some rural locations and parts of the Temburong district may experience patchier reception, though UNN’s ongoing network expansion is progressively addressing this.

eSIM availability: If you are hoping to obtain a local Bruneian eSIM from one of the main operators, be aware that they do not offer eSIMs to prepaid customers. Brunei’s SIM registration requirements apply to eSIMs just as they do to physical SIMs. If you prefer to avoid the registration process, a travel eSIM sourced from an international provider is an alternative worth considering. A number of international eSIM platforms offer Brunei data plans, which can be a practical way to get connected before you reach a physical store.

Number porting: Brunei supports mobile number portability, meaning you can switch between domestic operators without losing your existing number — a valuable feature if you need continuity of contact while changing providers. The process involves requesting the transfer through your incoming operator and allowing a short handling period. Check with your new provider for current processing times, as these can vary; unlike some markets where porting is completed within a single working day, it is sensible to allow a few days for the transfer to go through.

International roaming: All three major operators provide international roaming, though charges can be significant. If you travel regularly to neighbouring Malaysia or other destinations, messaging and calling apps such as WhatsApp — which is deeply embedded in everyday life in Brunei — offer a cost-effective substitute for voice calls made while roaming. Routing international calls through data-based apps rather than traditional roaming can generate meaningful savings.

Keeping your foreign number: Porting an overseas number into Brunei’s domestic network is not possible — number portability within Brunei applies only to local numbers. If retaining your home country number matters to you, consider keeping a SIM from your previous country active on a low-cost plan while using a local Brunei SIM for everyday purposes.

5G and future-proofing your device: To take advantage of 5G services in Brunei, your handset must support 700MHz band n28, 1800MHz band n3, and 3500MHz band n78. If you are in the market for a new phone, check compatibility with these Brunei-specific 5G bands before purchasing, particularly if ordering from abroad where device specifications can differ by region.

WhatsApp and local communication norms: WhatsApp is the dominant messaging platform in Brunei, used across personal, social, and professional spheres. Linking a local number to WhatsApp will significantly ease your integration into both work and social circles from the moment you arrive.

Regulatory oversight: For concerns relating to billing disputes, service quality, or consumer rights, the primary regulatory authority is the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry (AITI), reachable at aiti.gov.bn. The UNN website at unn.com.bn also provides useful information on network infrastructure and answers to frequently asked questions about broadband and telephone services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Brunei?

No — it is not possible to port an international number into Brunei’s network. You will need to take out a new local number with one of the three main providers (DST, Progresif, or Imagine). If it is important to keep your home country number active, you can run a low-cost SIM or a call-forwarding arrangement from your previous country in parallel with your new Brunei number.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Brunei?

For prepaid SIM cards, a valid passport is generally enough for tourists and newcomers — having an established local address is not usually a condition of purchase. Postpaid contracts typically require proof of residency or a valid work or residency pass alongside a passport. Requirements can differ between providers, so it is worth checking directly with your chosen operator before heading to the store.

Can I buy a prepaid SIM card at Brunei International Airport?

On arrival at Brunei International Airport you are likely to find DST sales counters or authorised resellers offering SIM cards for purchase. Progresif products may also be available. Having Brunei dollars (BND) or a payment card to hand is advisable, as change at airport counters can be limited. Availability is subject to change, so carrying a travel eSIM as a contingency before you depart is a sensible precaution.

How long does it take to get a landline installed in Brunei?

Installation timelines vary according to the provider and the nature of the service being set up. In some instances same-day installation is achievable, while other cases may require several days. During busy periods or in more remote locations, the wait may be longer still. Contact your chosen provider at the time of application to get an accurate estimate.

Are eSIMs available from local Brunei operators?

The main network operators in Brunei do not sell eSIMs to prepaid customers. However, several international eSIM platforms — including Airalo, Nomad, and others — offer data eSIMs compatible with Brunei’s networks, providing a practical workaround for short-term visitors or arrivals who want to be connected before they can reach a physical store. Check current availability and pricing on the respective platforms prior to travelling.

Which mobile provider has the best coverage in Brunei?

Since 2020 all three operators have shared the same physical network, so day-to-day coverage is broadly equivalent across providers. For overall plan value, 5G rollout pace, and customer service, Progresif has built a strong reputation for 4G and 5G data performance. That said, real-world coverage differences between operators are minimal for the vast majority of users. Consulting the coverage maps on each provider’s website for your specific location is the best way to make an informed choice.

What are the emergency numbers in Brunei?

The essential emergency numbers in Brunei are: Police — 993; Fire — 995; Ambulance — 991; Search and Rescue — 998. These are locally dialled short codes and do not require a country code prefix. Save them to your phone as soon as you arrive in the country.

Who regulates telephone services in Brunei, and what can I do if I have a complaint?

The Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry (AITI) is responsible for regulating telecommunications in Brunei, encompassing provider licensing and oversight of the country’s digital and connectivity strategy. If you have an unresolved complaint regarding billing, service quality, or operator conduct, AITI can be contacted through their official website at aiti.gov.bn. It is recommended that you first attempt to resolve matters directly with your provider before escalating to the regulator.