10 Things in Brunei That Will Blow Your Mind

Thinking of solo traveling to Brunei?

This tiny Southeast Asian nation often goes unnoticed by travelers, but it offers some of the most fascinating experiences in the region. Known for its immense oil wealth, safety, and cultural traditions, Brunei is home to golden mosques, the world’s largest water village, and one of the richest monarchs on earth. With petrol cheaper than water, a currency pegged to Singapore’s dollar, and life shaped under Sharia law, Brunei provides a travel experience unlike anywhere else in the world.

When travelers think of Southeast Asia, most picture the bustling streets of Bangkok, the skylines of Singapore, or the beaches of Bali. Few consider Brunei Darussalam — a tiny, oil-rich kingdom tucked away on the island of Borneo.

Many people have never even heard of it. Yet, Brunei is one of the most fascinating countries in the world — a land where golden mosques meet humble floating villages, and where immense royal wealth coexists with quiet, everyday simplicity.

Here are 10 mind-blowing facts about Brunei that every traveler should know.

1. The Sultan’s Unmatched Fortune 👑

Brunei is ruled by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, one of the wealthiest monarchs on Earth.

• He reportedly owns over 7,000 luxury cars, including Rolls Royces, Bentleys, and Ferraris.

• His private jets are decorated with gold and crystal interiors.

• His home, the Istana Nurul Iman Palace, is officially the largest residential palace in the world, boasting nearly 1,800 rooms and sprawling gardens.

While most of the country lives modestly, the Sultan’s wealth is a spectacle in itself.

2. Petrol is Cheaper Than Water ⛽💧

In Brunei, filling your car is unbelievably cheap — fuel costs less than bottled water. Thanks to vast oil and gas reserves, Brunei has some of the lowest fuel prices in the world. For a nation obsessed with cars, this explains why you’ll often see luxury vehicles cruising down quiet roads.

3. Golden Mosques That Sparkle ✨

Brunei’s mosques are masterpieces of Islamic architecture.

• Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, with its golden dome reflected on a lagoon, is considered one of the most beautiful mosques in Asia.

• The Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, built by the Sultan himself, is crowned with 29 golden domes, representing him as the 29th ruler.

These landmarks are not just places of worship, but powerful symbols of Brunei’s faith and heritage.

4. The Floating Water Village 🌊

Kampong Ayer, the world’s largest stilt settlement, is home to around 30,000 people. Entire neighborhoods float above the river — with schools, shops, police stations, and mosques all built on wooden stilts. This unique “water city” has existed for centuries and is still thriving today, a living reminder of Brunei’s history.

5. A Currency Tied to Singapore 💵

Brunei’s Brunei Dollar (BND) is pegged to the Singapore Dollar (SGD) at equal value. Both currencies are accepted in either country. This rare financial arrangement reflects Brunei’s economic stability and close ties with Singapore.

6. No Income Tax & Free Benefits 💰

Brunei’s oil wealth benefits its citizens directly.

• No personal income tax.

• Free healthcare and free education.

• Subsidized housing and essentials.

Few countries in the world provide this level of welfare, especially with such a small population.

7. A Kingdom of Peace and Safety 🕊️

Brunei’s official name means “The Abode of Peace”, and it lives up to it. Crime rates are extremely low, making it one of the safest destinations in the world. As a solo female traveler, I felt completely secure exploring its streets, mosques, and river villages.

8. Life Under Sharia Law ⚖️

One of the most unique — and often misunderstood — aspects of Brunei is its legal system. In 2014, Brunei became the first East Asian country to implement Sharia law nationwide.

• Alcohol is banned for Muslims (and not sold anywhere publicly).

• Certain aspects of public behavior are regulated.

• Dress codes are modest, and cultural respect is deeply valued.

For travelers, this means a more conservative atmosphere compared to neighboring countries. While strict, it contributes to the sense of order, safety, and respect that define Bruneian society.

9. Alcohol-Free Nation 🚫🍷

Brunei is a completely dry country. Alcohol cannot be purchased in shops, bars, or restaurants. Non-Muslim visitors are allowed to bring in a small quantity of alcohol for personal use, but it must be consumed privately. This gives Brunei a unique atmosphere — instead of nightlife, evenings are quiet, family-oriented, and calm.

10. A Blend of Luxury and Simplicity 🌍

What makes Brunei so fascinating is its balance. On one side, there’s the Sultan’s extravagant lifestyle — golden domes, rare supercars, and palaces larger than entire neighborhoods. On the other, there’s the simplicity of Kampong Ayer’s wooden homes, locals gathering at mosques, and a deep sense of tradition and humility.

It’s a country where wealth and faith, modernity and tradition, luxury and modesty, exist side by side.

Final Thoughts ✨

Brunei is not your typical Southeast Asian destination. It doesn’t have the chaos of Bangkok or the nightlife of Bali. Instead, it offers something entirely different — a glimpse into a unique kingdom where oil wealth fuels prosperity, religion shapes daily life, and safety allows travelers to explore without worry.

For me, it was one of the most eye-opening solo trips. Brunei may be small, but it leaves a big impression.