Brunei Passenger Transport Companies

Brunei Passenger Transport Companies

Brunei Darussalam, a small yet wealthy nation on the island of Borneo, has a developing passenger transport sector. Despite its size and low population density, the country maintains a range of passenger transport services, primarily centered around its capital, Bandar Seri Begawan. The passenger transport industry in Brunei includes buses, taxis, water taxis, ride-hailing services, and private vehicle hire. Although car ownership is high in Brunei, there is still a modest demand for public and private passenger transport services.

The main public passenger transport system in Brunei is the Brunei-Muara District bus service, operated under the Department of Land Transport. It covers major areas within the capital and nearby districts. The buses are color-coded according to their routes and offer a cost-effective option for locals and tourists. However, bus services are limited in frequency and coverage, which makes them less convenient for some residents.

In addition to public buses, taxis operate under the Land Transport Department’s regulation. However, Brunei has a relatively small fleet of traditional taxis due to high private car ownership and the popularity of ride-hailing apps. Taxi services are available mostly in urban areas, at the airport, and near major hotels and tourist sites. Brunei Gas Carriers and Brunei Shell Transport also offer transport services for employees and are among the better-known companies involved in the broader transport sector.

Ride-hailing services such as Dart, a local company similar to Grab and Uber, have become popular in recent years. Dart offers booking services via a mobile application and has improved the convenience and accessibility of transportation for residents, particularly in areas with limited taxi or bus service. The company’s entry into the market has modernized Brunei’s passenger transport scene and offers an alternative to traditional transport modes.

Water taxis are a distinctive form of passenger transport, especially in Kampong Ayer, the water village in Bandar Seri Begawan. These small boats ferry residents across the Brunei River and to the city center. They are vital for the daily movement of people in the water village and are considered a unique and essential part of Brunei’s transport system.

Some private transport companies also provide rental car services with drivers or chauffeur services for business travelers and tourists. These companies cater to expatriates, tourists, and government officials needing reliable, comfortable transport. Examples include Sabre Car Rental, Hertz Brunei, and Avis Brunei.

In conclusion, while Brunei’s passenger transport sector is not as extensive as those in larger countries, it is evolving steadily. Government-backed services, private taxis, ride-hailing apps, and unique water taxis together form a small but diverse network. As Brunei continues to modernize, especially in digital services, local transport companies like Dart are likely to play an increasingly important role in meeting passenger needs.