Brunei

Brunei Darussalam is a small Islamic Sultanate on the northern coast of the Island of Borneo. It is divided into four districts: Brunei/Muara, Tutong, Belait, and Temburong. The capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, is its major city. Brunei’s official language is Malay, but English is widely understood and used in business. Tourist facilities and services are generally available throughout the country. Sunni Islam of the Shafi’i school is the official religion of Brunei. In May 2014, the country began partial implementation of Sharia (Islamic) criminal law, in addition to continuing to follow existing criminal law. Brunei government offices are closed Fridays and Sundays; most private businesses operate Monday through Friday; all businesses are required to close from noon until 2:00 p.m. on Fridays for midday prayers. For more information concerning Brunei, please see the Government of Brunei website. Read the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Brunei for additional information on U.S.- Brunei relations.