Home » Asia » Visa waivers for 66 countries including Brunei, Canada, France, Japan boost tourism
Friday, July 19, 2024
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Known for its pristine rainforests, stunning mosques and vibrant culture, Brunei offers a hassle-free travel experience with a visa-free policy for citizens of 66 countries. The policy encourages tourists from all over the world to explore Brunei’s rich history and natural beauty without the need for advance visa arrangements. Visitors can enjoy the Sultanate’s attractions, from the gorgeous Jami’a Sul Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque to the lush, expansive landscapes of Ulu Temburong National Park. Brunei’s efforts to promote tourism through such a convenient travel policy highlight its commitment to welcoming international travelers and showcasing its unique attractions.
Tourist arrivals to Brunei set to rise significantly in 2023
Brunei is experiencing a notable increase in tourist arrivals, with visitor numbers set to grow from 35,701 in 2022 to a staggering 120,059 in 2023. This positive trend is largely attributable to the country’s gradual recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic that had previously stifled travel worldwide.
The majority of this increase was seen in air arrivals, reflecting the easing of travel restrictions and the return of international flights. However, it is noteworthy that land arrivals remained consistently at their highest level for many years, highlighting Brunei’s accessibility and attractiveness as a travel destination. This growth marks an important milestone for Brunei’s tourism industry, signaling a strong recovery and promising future for the sector.
Tourism contribution to Brunei’s GDP
Brunei’s real GDP in 2022 was US$12.78 billion. The GDP breakdown for Q4 2023 is as follows:
Industrial sector: 60.8% Service sector (including tourism): 38.3% Agriculture, forestry and fisheries: 0.9%
Brunei’s GDP for the fourth quarter of 2023 was BND5 billion at current prices. The tourism industry, part of the services sector, plays a significant role in the economy.
Visa-free entry for Brunei citizens:
Australia (30 days) Austria (90 days) Bahrain (30 days) Belgium (90 days) Bulgaria (90 days) Cambodia (14 days) Canada (14 days) China (14 days) Croatia (90 days) Cyprus (90 days) Denmark (90 days) Estonia (90 days) Finland (90 days) France (90 days) Germany (90 days) Greece (90 days) Hong Kong (14 days) Hungary (90 days) Iceland (90 days) India (14 days) Indonesia (14 days) Iran (30 days) Ireland (90 days) Italy (90 days) Japan (14 days) Kuwait (30 days) Latvia (90 days) Laos (14 days) days)Liechtenstein (90 days)Lithuania (90 days)Luxembourg (90 days)Macau (14 days)Malaysia (30 days)Maldives (14 days)Malta (90 days)Mongolia (14 days)Myanmar (14 days)Netherlands (90 days)New Zealand (30 days)Norway (90 days)Oman (30 days)Pakistan (14 days)Peru (14 days)Poland (90 days)Philippines (14 days)Portugal (90 days)Qatar (14 days)Republic of Korea (30 days)Russia (14 days)Romania (90 days)Spain (90 days)Sweden (90 days)Switzerland (90 days)Slovenia (90 days)Singapore (30 days)Japan)Slovakia (90 days)Saudi Arabia (30 days)Taiwan (14 days)Tajikistan (14 days)Thailand (30 days)Turkey (30 days)Ukraine (30 days) days)United Kingdom (90 days)United States (90 days)United Arab Emirates (30 days)Vietnam (14 days)
Airports in Brunei:
Brunei is a small Southeast Asian country with limited area and population. Currently, Brunei has only one international airport.
Brunei International Airport (BWN): Brunei International Airport (BIA) is the main international travel gateway for Brunei Darussalam. Located on the island of Borneo, it serves as the official point of entry into Brunei and is one of only two airports in the country.
Conveniently located near Bandar Seri Begawan in the Brunei-Muara district, BIA is the main hub for the national carrier, Royal Brunei Airlines (RB). The airport plays a vital role connecting Brunei with the rest of the world, offering a range of services and amenities to ensure a smooth travel experience for passengers.
Brunei Airlines:
Brunei’s aviation sector is made up of the national airline and several smaller specialist airlines, each with different roles to play. Let’s take a closer look at the main airlines associated with Brunei.
Royal Brunei Airlines (RBA) is Brunei’s flagship airline, operating a range of international and regional flights. It serves as the country’s main gateway for travellers to and from Brunei, connecting Brunei with major destinations in Asia, the Middle East, Australia and Europe.
RB Link, a subsidiary of Royal Brunei Airlines, enhances regional connectivity by offering flights within Borneo and to neighbouring regions. The service focuses on facilitating travel within the region, supporting both business and leisure travel.
Drukya has historically operated flights between Brunei and Bhutan, a unique route that features notable international flights that are occasionally operated beyond the usual regional routes.
Vision Airlines is a small airline from Brunei that offers charter services and specialty flights. Their services include VIP and private jet options, catering to a niche market that requires customized travel solutions.
Together, these airlines contribute to Brunei’s aviation industry, ensuring robust connectivity to cater to various travel and industrial needs within and beyond the region.
Brunei Hotels:
Brunei offers a wide range of luxurious and comfortable accommodation options for travelers. Here are five outstanding hotels that offer excellent amenities and services in this beautiful country.
The Empire Brunei: Located in Jerudong, The Empire Brunei is a stunning 5-star hotel known for its spectacular architecture and breathtaking views of the South China Sea. Guests can enjoy a wealth of facilities, including a world-class golf course, a refreshing spa, multiple pools and a range of restaurants.
Radisson Hotel Brunei Darussalam: Located in the bustling capital of Bandar Seri Begawan, Radisson Hotel Brunei Darussalam offers well-appointed rooms ideal for business and leisure travelers. The hotel also features a fitness center, outdoor pool and multiple restaurants to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay.
The Rizqun International Hotel: Located in Gadong, the Rizqun International Hotel is a modern hotel known for its elegant rooms and excellent meeting facilities. The hotel is adjacent to a large shopping complex and features a variety of dining options, a fitness center and a pool, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking for both comfort and convenience.
Mulia Hotel: Located in Bandar Seri Begawan, Mulia Hotel is known for its friendly service and comfortable accommodations. Its outdoor pool, fitness center and multiple restaurants make it a popular choice for business travelers and tourists alike.
Times Hotel: Located in Berakas, Times Hotel is a contemporary hotel with easy access to both the airport and the city center. With well-appointed rooms, a rooftop pool and a variety of dining options, this hotel is perfect for short or long stays.
Offering a range of amenities, these hotels in Brunei are acclaimed for their excellent service and comfort. Whether you are here for business or leisure, these accommodations are sure to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay.
Tourist destinations in Brunei:
Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque: A stunning example of Islamic architecture, the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is a must-visit landmark in Brunei. With its golden domes, marble minarets and beautifully manicured gardens, the mosque is a symbol of Brunei’s religious heritage and architectural excellence.
Ulu Temburong National Park: For nature lovers, Ulu Temburong National Park is an unparalleled place to experience Brunei’s pristine rainforest. Known as the “Green Jewel of Brunei”, the park is home to canopy walks, waterfalls and diverse wildlife, offering visitors a sense of immersion and adventure.
Royal Regalia Museum: The Royal Regalia Museum is a repository of Brunei’s royal history. It houses a vast collection of artefacts, including the ceremonial regalia used in the coronation of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. The museum offers a glimpse into the country’s royal family and its rich cultural traditions.
Kampong Ayer (Floating Village): Nicknamed the “Venice of the East,” Kampong Ayer is a unique floating village showcasing traditional Bruneian lifestyle. The village is made up of houses built on stilts above the Brunei River and connected by wooden walkways. Visitors can explore this historic settlement by boat and experience the vibrant local culture.
Jami Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque: The largest mosque in Brunei, Jami Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is an architectural marvel with 29 golden domes. The mosque’s intricate design and lush surroundings make it a tranquil place for prayer and meditation, and it has also become a key tourist attraction in the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan.
Tags: Brunei International Airport, Canada, France, Japan, RB Link, Royal Brunei Airlines, Empire Brunei, Tourism News, Travel Industry, Travel News, Ulu Temburong National Park, Visa Free Travel, Visa News
