Brunei Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for Brunei
US State Department Travel Advisory
Exercise Normal Precautions
Updated May 14, 2026
Brunei recorded 0.5 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2013, a rate that is among the lowest in the world. That places Brunei #183 of 195 countries by homicide rate, compared with the Asia average of 2.0 per 100,000 and a world average of 5.2. Homicide has stayed rare over the past decade (0.9 per 100,000 in 2003, 0.5 today). For travelers, the US State Department currently rates Brunei at Level 1 of 4: Exercise Normal Precautions.
Homicide Rate
0.5 /100k
Safety Rank
#13 of 195
Travel Advisory
Level 1 of 4
Data Year
2013
Homicide Rate Trend (1996-2013)
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people. Homicide has stayed rare over the past decade (0.9 per 100,000 in 2003, 0.5 today). Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How Brunei Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Safety for Travelers
Summary of the current US State Department advisory for Brunei:
There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Advisory summary Brunei is generally a safe destination for travelers. Basic emergency medical care is available throughout Brunei. However, response times may be limited in rural areas. Read the Health section of the Travel Guidance on this page for more information. Review our travel guidance for Brunei to learn how to prepare for a safe trip. If you decide to travel to Brunei: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S.
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for Brunei
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated May 21, 2026).
For emergency services in Brunei
Police: Dial 993 Ambulance: Dial 991 Fire & Rescue: Dial 995 Search & Rescue: Dial 998
Crime
: Most crimes that occur in Brunei are non-violent crimes of opportunity, including residential burglaries and vehicle break-ins. While in Brunei, you can generally avoid becoming a victim of a crime of opportunity by practicing good security awareness. For example: secure your valuables (remove them from plain view), avoid secluded locations, properly secure your residence and vehicle, and do not travel alone late at night. Crime in Brunei peaks in July and December, due to the holidays and schools being out of session. Scams: Review the Department of State’s Protecting Yourself from Scams and the FBI pages for information.
Technology Usage Abroad
: Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged anywhere in the world. Before traveling abroad, it is best to keep all software (operating system and apps) updated. If possible, use a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety consideration. Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.
Victims of Crime
: Report crimes to the local police at 993 and contact the U.S. Embassy at (673) 238-7500 Monday-Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m., Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. or (673) 873-0691 (24 hours). Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime. See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . We can: Help you find appropriate medical care. Assist you in reporting a crime to the police. Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms. Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys. Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution. Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
Domestic Violence
: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.
Tourism
: The tourism industry is generally regulated. Rules with regards to general practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs. Trained staff are usually there to help with organized activities. If someone gets hurt, they can usually get medical help anywhere in the country. In remote areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and assist. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .
About This Data
Homicide figures are intentional homicides per 100,000 people, compiled by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and published by the World Bank (indicator VC.IHR.PSRC.P5). Homicide is the most reliably comparable crime statistic across countries because definitions of other offences (assault, theft, robbery) vary widely between national legal systems and reporting practices.
Travel advisory levels are issued by the US Department of State and updated continuously. They reflect risks to travelers including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health, and natural disasters — not only crime rates. Countries report crime data with different lags; the most recent available year is shown for each metric.
Brunei Population & Demographics
Population of 462,721, growth trends, economy, and more.
Crime & Safety in Neighboring Countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brunei safe to visit?
The US State Department rates Brunei at Level 1 of 4 (Exercise Normal Precautions). The homicide rate of 0.5 per 100,000 is among the lowest in the world.
What is the crime rate in Brunei?
Brunei has an intentional homicide rate of 0.5 per 100,000 people (2013, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #183 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for Brunei?
Brunei is currently at Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions. Advisory levels range from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel).
How does crime in Brunei compare to other countries?
Brunei's homicide rate of 0.5 per 100,000 is below the world average of 5.2 and below the Asia average of 2.0.