Best eSim for Brunei in 2025

Traveling to Brunei in 2025? Whether you’re exploring the mosques of Bandar Seri Begawan or trekking through the lush Temburong rainforest, staying connected is a must. Instead of dealing with local SIM cards, you can get an eSIM that lets you get online instantly with just a quick QR scan.

Among the top providers, Holafly stands out as the best eSIM for Brunei, thanks to its unlimited data plans, hassle-free setup, and reliable coverage in urban areas. Still, options like Nomad, Airalo, and Saily are worth considering if you’re looking for budget-friendly or flexible short-term data packages.

Note: All pricing information in this article is accurate as of August 26, 2025. Prices are subject to change at any time, so we recommend checking directly with each eSIM provider for the most up-to-date details before making a purchase.

Things to consider when choosing an eSIM for Brunei

Choosing the right eSIM can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. While most eSIMs offer data access, not all plans are created equal, and some may better suit your travel style than others.

Before purchasing, take a moment to consider your connectivity needs, how long you’ll be in the country, and what kind of activities you’ll be doing.

Here are the most important factors to keep in mind:

• Network partnerships matter: Your eSIM provider should work with dominant Brunei carriers, like DST and Progresif, to ensure reliable coverage in both cities and rural areas.
• Coverage gaps outside urban centers: While you’ll have solid connectivity in Bandar Seri Begawan, expect weaker signals in remote rainforest regions or smaller towns.
• Voice calls and SMS support varies: Many international eSIM providers offer data-only plans, so check if traditional phone calls and text messaging are included.
• Data speeds can fluctuate: Even with good signal strength, actual speeds may drop below advertised LTE rates during peak tourist times or in remote locations.
• Regional roaming considerations: If you’re combining Brunei with nearby Malaysia or Indonesia, confirm whether your eSIM plan supports cross-border usage.
• Emergency connectivity matters: Some data-only plans may restrict access to local emergency numbers, so ensure your eSIM allows calls if needed.
• Activation flexibility: Make sure your eSIM plan only starts when you first connect, not immediately upon purchase, to avoid losing valuable coverage time.

The best eSIM for Brunei

According to our research, here are the top eSIM providers for Brunei, selected based on coverage, pricing, ease of activation, and user reviews. These providers ensure you stay connected throughout your trip without the hassle of physical SIM cards.

1. Holafly

• Rating: 4.5/5 (based on 61K reviews on Trustpilot) 
• Pricing: Starts at $9.90 for unlimited data/1 day
• Coverage:  Works in 130+ countries, covers Brunei’s main urban zones and highways, but weak in Temburong District
• Calls/SMS: No calls, data-only. You’ll need to use apps like WhatsApp or Messenger for calling and texting.

Holafly is known for its user-friendly activation, where you simply scan a QR code to get online, and for offering unlimited, country-specific eSIMs that provide solid coverage in Brunei’s major cities. With strong urban data speeds, broad device compatibility, and a true plug-and-play setup, it’s a hassle-free choice for travelers.

In addition, Holafly stands out for its focus on unlimited data, which is particularly useful in Brunei if you plan to use maps, stream content, or stay active on social media without worrying about caps. While it excels in cities like Bandar Seri Begawan, coverage may be more limited in rural areas, making it best suited for travelers whose trips center around Brunei’s urban hubs.

Pros:

• Strong coverage in Bandar Seri Begawan (capital) and major tourist areas
  
• Easy activation before landing, useful for short trips
  
• Reliable data speeds in urban areas
  

Cons:

• No coverage in some rural parts of Temburong District
  
• More expensive than local SIMs sold at Brunei Airport
  
• No calls/SMS, which can be a drawback since locals rely on WhatsApp and traditional calls

2. Nomad

• Rating: 4.4/5 ( based on 20K reviews on Trustpilot)
• Pricing: Starts at $7.00 for 1GB/7 days
• Coverage: 80+ countries. Covers Brunei’s capital and nearby attractions like Kampong Ayer, but is unreliable in eco-parks.
• Calls/SMS: Data-only. Use internet-based apps for voice and text communication.

Nomad is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers who want simple, straightforward data plans with instant activation and reliable coverage in Brunei’s main tourist areas. Its no-frills approach makes it ideal for those who just need dependable data to stay connected without paying for extras they won’t use.

Beyond Brunei, Nomad is well-regarded for its flexibility, offering regional and global eSIM options that allow travelers to stay online across multiple destinations without swapping cards. The app-based setup is quick and intuitive, and customer support is available directly through the platform, making it a convenient solution for anyone on the move.

Pros:

• Good value for budget-conscious visitors staying in the capital
  
• Quick QR activation works well if buying on arrival
  
• Decent coverage in tourist hubs like Kampong Ayer and Gadong
  

Cons:

• Not reliable if you plan to explore Ulu Temburong National Park
  
• Plans are smaller, so not ideal for heavy social media use during long trips
  
• No SMS/call support, which limits communication in emergencies

3. Airalo

• Rating: 3.8/5 (based on 8K reviews on Trustpilot) 
• Pricing: Starts at $9.00 for 1GB/7 days
• Coverage: Works in 130+ countries, covers Brunei’s main urban zones and highways, but weak in Temburong District
• Calls/SMS: Data-only. Traditional phone calls and SMS are not supported

Airalo offers a mix of global, regional, and country-specific eSIMs, with affordable Brunei plans that are convenient for both short-term visitors and long-term travelers. Its flexible packages provide reliable data speeds in urban areas, making them a practical choice for different types of trips.

What makes Airalo particularly appealing is its balance of cost and convenience. Travelers can easily top up data through the app without needing to buy a new plan, which is helpful if you underestimate your usage. While coverage is strong in Brunei’s main cities, rural areas may have patchier connections, so it’s best for travelers spending most of their time in populated regions.

Pros:

• Affordable option for short stays in Brunei
  
• Works well in urban areas and near the main highways
  
• Good option if combining Brunei with regional travel (e.g., Malaysia, Singapore)
  

Cons:

• Patchy service in forested and rural regions
  
• Data speeds can dip during peak evening hours in Bandar Seri Begawan
  
• Data-only plans, no voice/SMS

4. GigSky

• Rating: 3.4/5 (based on 399 reviews on Trustpilot) 
• Pricing: Starts at $10.49 for 1GB/15 days
• Coverage: Available in 190+ countries, good around Bandar Seri Begawan and attractions like Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, weaker on coastal outskirts.
• Calls/SMS: Data- only. Communication relies on internet apps instead of cellular calling or texting

GigSky provides flexible eSIM data plans with simple QR-code activation, making it a great choice for travelers in Brunei who need moderate to heavy data usage. Its plans are easy to top up and offer flexibility in duration, giving users control over how much data they use during their trip.

What sets GigSky apart is its user-friendly app, which allows travelers to monitor data consumption in real time and adjust plans on the go. While coverage is strong in Brunei’s urban areas, rural regions may experience slower speeds, so it’s best suited for those who will be spending most of their time in the capital or other populated districts.

Pros:

• Easy to top up if staying longer in Brunei
  
• Coverage in key tourist attractions like Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and Royal Regalia Museum
  
• Good app for monitoring usage in real-time
  

Cons:

• Expensive for larger data bundles compared to local carriers
  
• No voice/SMS makes it tricky for booking local taxis that require phone contact
  
• Not reliable in rural coastal areas

5. Saily

• Rating: 4.7/5 (based on 97K reviews on Trustpilot)
• Pricing: Starts at $12.99 for 1GB/7 days
• Coverage: 70+ countries, with reliable service in Brunei’s main cities like Bandar Seri Begawan and Gadong, though rural and remote rainforest areas may experience weaker signals
• Calls/SMS: Data-only, no traditional calls or SMS

Saily eSIM specializes in simple, traveler-friendly eSIMs that are easy to activate and manage via their app. It’s ideal for tourists who want a quick solution for staying connected in Brunei without dealing with local SIM cards. Plans are straightforward, and the service emphasizes reliable data in urban areas.

Beyond Brunei’s cities, Saily eSIM is designed for travelers who may also venture to nearby regions or plan multi-country trips. The app allows easy top-ups and plan management on the go, so you can adjust your data usage as needed. While coverage is strongest in urban centers, the convenience and flexibility make it a reliable choice for most tourists exploring popular areas and main highways.

Pros:

• Easy QR-code activation
  
• Flexible plans for short or longer trips
  
• Good coverage in Brunei’s cities and tourist spots
  

Cons:

• No voice calls or SMS
  
• Limited reliability in remote areas
  
• Smaller data packages can be expensive per GB
  

6. aloSIM

• Rating: 4.2/5 (based on 334 reviews on Trustpilot)
• Pricing: Starts at $9.00 for 1GB/7 days
• Coverage: 60+ countries, including strong connectivity in urban Brunei and main highways, but patchy service in rural districts and eco-tourist areas
• Calls/SMS: Data-only, no traditional calls or SMS

AloSIM offers budget-conscious travelers an affordable way to stay online while exploring Brunei. Its plans are easy to activate, and the company provides a simple app interface to manage usage and top-ups. AloSIM is ideal for short trips and light-to-moderate data users who need coverage in urban and tourist areas.

In addition, AloSIM’s flexible plans make it easy to extend your data if your trip ends up being longer than expected. While coverage is strongest in cities like Bandar Seri Begawan and along main roads, the app’s real-time monitoring helps travelers manage usage efficiently. This makes AloSIM a practical choice for those who want reliable connectivity without paying for unnecessary extras.

Pros:

• Affordable for short trips
  
• Simple app-based activation
  
• Reliable in cities and along main routes
  

Cons:

• Data-only, no calls or SMS
  
• Patchy coverage in remote locations
  
• Slower speeds compared to premium providers

Comparison of best eSIMs for Brunei

Here's a comprehensive comparison table of the best eSIMs for Brunei in 2025:

Why do I need an eSIM in Brunei

Here’s why an eSIM matters more than you might expect:

• Social media and photo backup: Brunei is full of beautiful sights, from Bandar Seri Begawan’s mosques to Temburong’s rainforests. With mobile data, you can post photos or back up travel memories in real time, without waiting for slow Wi-Fi.
  
• Navigation and maps: Towns and attractions can be far apart, and public transport is limited. GPS apps like Google Maps or Maps.me help you find your way safely.
  
• Safety and communication: A working phone is essential. You may need to contact your hotel, coordinate with a guide, or reach local emergency services.
  
• Booking and itinerary updates: Travel plans can change due to weather, ferry schedules, or traffic. Mobile data allows you to confirm bookings or adjust your itinerary on the go.
  
• Currency and payments: Brunei uses the Brunei Dollar (BND). With an eSIM, you can access mobile banking, payment apps, and real-time currency conversion tools without hunting for ATMs.
  
• Translation and guidance: Not every rural stop or tourist area has English signage or staff. Online translation apps and guides make it easy to understand menus, signs, and instructions.
  

Using an eSIM ensures you have instant, hassle-free mobile connectivity from the moment you land, helping you stay connected, safe, and in control throughout your Brunei trip.

How we chose the best eSIM for Brunei

When choosing the best eSIM for Brunei, it’s important to consider how you’ll actually use your data during your trip. From city sightseeing to exploring national parks, different parts of the country have varying connectivity needs. We looked at the practical aspects that matter most to travelers on the ground.

Selecting the right eSIM for Brunei isn’t just about picking the cheapest option, it’s about finding a plan that keeps you connected wherever your travels take you. In our research, we focused on several key factors:

• Check where it actually works: Make sure your eSIM has good signal in Bandar Seri Begawan, Gadong, and other main towns, plus enough reach along highways and popular spots.
  
• Keep an eye on your budget: Some plans are perfect for just a few days, while unlimited options are great if you’re streaming or using social media a lot.
  
• Pick a plan that fits your trip: Whether you need a tiny plan for a quick visit or a bigger one for a longer adventure, make sure it matches your schedule.
  
• Make activation easy on yourself: Nothing worse than struggling with SIMs at the airport. The best eSIMs get you online with a simple QR code scan.
  
• Stay connected on the move: If you’re driving or taking ferries, make sure your data works along the main roads and travel routes.

By looking at these factors, we were able to identify the eSIM providers that offer the best combination of reliability, convenience, and value for anyone traveling in Brunei.

How do I know if my device is eSIM compatible

Before buying an eSIM for Brunei, it’s important to make sure your phone actually supports it. How you set up an eSIM depends on whether you have an iPhone or Android, and not all newer phones support it.

For iPhone users:

Step 1: Check your model
eSIM support starts with iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR. All newer models support eSIM. iPhone X and earlier do not.

Step 2: Check in About
Open Settings > General > About. Scroll down and look for Digital SIM or multiple IMEI numbers. If you see either, your iPhone supports eSIM.

 Step 3: Check Cellular
Go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) and look for Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan. If this option appears, your device is eSIM-ready.

Step 4: Update and confirm
Update iOS to the latest version and, if needed, confirm with your carrier that eSIM activation is available for your plan.

For Android users:

Step 1: Check manufacturer compatibility
Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, and select OnePlus, Oppo, and Xiaomi models that support eSIM, but availability can vary depending on your region and carrier.

Step 2 : Open SIM settings
Go to Settings > Connections or Settings > Network & Internet, then tap SIM Manager or Mobile Network. If your device supports eSIM, you’ll see options for adding or managing eSIM profiles.

Step 3: Check your IMEI
Dial #06# to view your IMEI information. eSIM-compatible devices often display multiple IMEI numbers: one for the physical SIM slot and another for the eSIM.

If you’d like a more detailed walkthrough, you can check out our handy guide: that shows exactly how to confirm eSIM compatibility on both iPhone and Android devices.

When to order and how to activate my Brunei eSIM

Ordering and activating an eSIM is simple, but timing can make your trip smoother. It is best to purchase your eSIM before you leave for Brunei so you can set it up in advance and avoid searching for local SIM cards upon arrival. Purchase your eSIM 24-48 hours before departure, but do not activate it until you arrive in Brunei.

Most providers start billing when you activate the plan, not when you purchase it. This gives you time to resolve any compatibility issues while still at home with reliable internet access.

iPhone activation process

1. Open your eSIM provider's app or use the QR code provided in your confirmation email.
   
2. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan and scan the QR code or enter activation details manually.
   
3. Follow the prompts to install the eSIM profile, assign it a label (like "Brunei Travel"), and configure it as your primary data source while keeping your home plan for calls if needed.
   
4. Test the connection by turning off Wi-Fi and browsing to a website. The activation process typically takes 5-15 minutes.
   

Android activation process

1. Download your eSIM provider's app.
   
2. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager (Samsung) or Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network (Google Pixel).
   
3. Select Add Mobile Plan or Add Carrier and scan the QR code or enter activation information manually.
   
4. Configure the new eSIM profile settings.
   
5. Select the new eSIM as your primary data connection and test connectivity by disabling Wi-Fi temporarily.
   
6. If activation fails, ensure you are in an area with network coverage, restart your device, and verify your account details with the eSIM provider before attempting again.

Benefits of having a Brunei eSIM

Getting an eSIM for Brunei makes travel smoother and more convenient. Here are some of the biggest advantages you’ll enjoy:

• Immediate internet access: You can land in Brunei and connect right away without needing to find a SIM vendor at the airport.
  
• No need for a physical SIM: Avoid swapping tiny SIM cards and worrying about misplacing your home SIM.
  
• Multiple profiles on one device: Keep your home number active for calls or texts while using your Brunei eSIM for data.
  
• Flexible plan options: Many providers let you pick short-term or longer packages depending on your trip length.
  
• Better control while traveling: Manage your data plan directly in the app, add more data if needed, or switch providers without hunting for a shop.

Best eSIM for Brunei: which one to use

Holafly stands out as the best option, though there are other providers worth considering. Airalo, Nomad, and GigSky offer affordable short-term plans and decent regional coverage, making them solid choices for lighter data users. Still, Holafly’s unlimited data is a game changer, ensuring you never have to worry about running out of gigabytes when you need them most.

It may be a bit pricier than some local or pay-per-GB options, but the mix of instant activation, 24/7 support, and hotspot sharing gives you a level of convenience that’s hard to beat. If staying connected across Brunei without limits is your priority, Holafly’s eSIM is the way to go.

Best eSIM for Brunei FAQ

Here are answers to some of the most common questions travelers ask about using eSIMs in Brunei:

1. What is an eSIM?

An eSIM (Embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card embedded in your device, allowing you to activate a mobile plan without physical SIM insertion. It’s rewritable, works across compatible devices, and makes switching operators seamless.

2. When does my eSIM data plan start?

Your plan activates as soon as your device connects to a supported network. For example, if you activate it at 10 AM and have a 24-hour plan, you'll be connected until 10 AM the next day. 

3. Can I make voice calls or send SMS with my eSIM in Brunei?

Most tourist eSIMs for Brunei are data-only and don’t include a local phone number. You’ll need to use messaging apps like WhatsApp or Messenger for voice and text communication. 

4. Can I share eSIM data through a hotspot?

Yes. For example, Holafly lets you share up to 1 GB of daily data via hotspot—handy for keeping other devices connected.

5. How long after purchase do I have to activate the eSIM?

Most providers allow you to purchase your eSIM ahead of time and activate it once you land in Brunei—this means you’re only billed from the moment you begin using it. 

6. Will my eSIM work throughout Brunei?

Yes. Plans from providers like Saily, Holafly, and others generally offer reliable 4G/5G coverage across urban areas and major tourist spots in Brunei, although performance may dip in remote rainforest or coastal regions. 

7. Do I need to enable data roaming to use my eSIM in Brunei?

Yes.After activating your eSIM, enable Data Roaming on your device. Doing this won’t incur extra roaming fees if the eSIM plan is local to Brunei.