How to Call Brunei
Complete guide to dialing Brunei (country code +673)
Planning to connect with someone in Brunei Darussalam? Learning how to call Brunei doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're reaching out to family, friends, or business contacts, understanding the proper dialing procedures ensures your call goes through smoothly every time. Calling Brunei from abroad requires knowing the correct country code, area codes, and dialing format to avoid connection issues.
This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need for successfully calling Brunei, including step-by-step dialing instructions from various countries, common mistakes that prevent calls from connecting, essential phone etiquette to respect local customs, and a collection of useful numbers for emergencies and services. By following these straightforward tips, you'll be confidently making international calls to Brunei in no time.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
When calling Brunei internationally, you'll need to use the country code +673. Understanding the proper dialing format ensures your calls connect successfully to both mobile and landline numbers in this Southeast Asian nation.
International Dialing Format Structure
The standard format for calling Brunei is: Exit Code + 673 + Local Number
The exit code varies by country, while 673 remains Brunei's country code. Local numbers in Brunei are typically 7 digits long for both landlines and mobile phones.
Dialing from Different Countries
From the USA or Canada:
- Dial 011 (exit code)
- Dial 673 (Brunei country code)
- Dial the 7-digit local number
Example: To call +673 222 3456, dial 011-673-222-3456
From the UK:
- Dial 00 (exit code)
- Dial 673 (Brunei country code)
- Dial the 7-digit local number
Example: To call +673 222 3456, dial 00-673-222-3456
From Australia:
Use exit code 0011, so dial 0011-673-222-3456
From Mobile Phones (Any Country):
Simply dial +673 followed by the local number. The + symbol replaces your country's exit code.
Example: +673-222-3456
Specific Number Examples
Landline Example: To call Brunei landline +673 233 4567 from USA:
Dial 011-673-233-4567
Mobile Example 1: To call Brunei mobile +673 712 3456 from UK:
Dial 00-673-712-3456
Mobile Example 2: To call Brunei mobile +673 867 8901 from anywhere using a mobile phone:
Dial +673-867-8901
Important Note About Leading Zeros
Brunei local numbers don't typically use leading zeros. However, if you encounter a number written with a leading zero (0), drop it when dialing internationally. For instance, if a local number appears as 0222 3456, dial 673-222-3456 internationally.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Brunei, avoid these common dialing mistakes:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero
Brunei mobile and landline numbers often start with 0 domestically (like 012-3456). When calling internationally, you must remove this zero. From abroad, dial +673 then the number *without* the leading 0.
2. Using incorrect exit codes
Many callers use the wrong exit code for their country. While 011 works for the US/Canada, other countries differ (00 for UK, 0011 for Australia). Check your country's specific exit code, or simply use the + symbol which works universally on mobile phones.
3. Confusing the country code with area codes
Brunei doesn't use area codes. After dialing +673, you proceed directly to the 7-digit local number. Don't add extra digits thinking they're area codes.
4. Adding unnecessary spaces or symbols
While spaces help readability (+673 123 4567), some phone systems reject them. If your call fails, try entering the number continuously: +6731234567.
5. Dialing during business closures
Brunei observes Friday-Saturday weekends and Islamic holidays. Verify business hours before calling to avoid wasted attempts.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Brunei, demonstrating respect and proper etiquette is essential in this Islamic monarchy where traditional values blend with modern communication practices.
Greetings and Formality
Always begin calls with "Assalamualaikum" (peace be upon you) as the standard greeting, followed by polite inquiries about the person's well-being. Maintain a formal tone, especially with elders, business contacts, or those you don't know well. Use titles like "Dato," "Datin," or "Haji/Hajah" when addressing distinguished individuals.
Business vs. Personal Calls
Business calls should be professional and structured. State your purpose clearly after initial pleasantries. Personal calls allow more warmth but should still maintain respect, particularly when speaking with family elders.
Timing Considerations
Avoid calling during prayer times, which occur five times daily. The most significant is Friday noon prayers. Evenings after 8 PM are generally suitable for personal calls, while business calls should occur during standard office hours (8 AM-5 PM). Never call during Ramadan fasting hours unless urgent.
Voice Messages
Leaving clear, concise voice messages is appreciated. State your name, purpose, and contact information slowly.
Cultural Considerations
Keep conversations modest and avoid controversial topics like politics or religion. Bruneians value harmony, so maintain a calm, pleasant tone. If calling someone's mobile during work hours, ask if it's a convenient time to talk, showing consideration for their schedule.
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Emergency Numbers
Emergency Numbers in Brunei:
- Police: 993
- Ambulance: 991
- Fire Department: 995
- Emergency Services (General): 911 (redirects to appropriate service)
- Search and Rescue: 998
All emergency numbers are toll-free and accessible 24/7 from both landlines and mobile phones throughout Brunei. English-speaking operators are generally available, though Malay is the primary language used. Mobile phone users can dial these numbers even without credit or an active SIM card.
Important Note: When calling, clearly state your location, the nature of the emergency, and whether anyone requires immediate medical attention. Response times are typically quick in urban areas like Bandar Seri Begawan, but may take longer in remote regions. Keep your phone charged and accessible, especially when traveling outside major towns.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 113: Directory enquiries for local telephone numbers and general information
- 101: Telephone faults and technical support
International Services
- 100: International operator assistance for overseas calls and collect calls
Tourist Information
- +673 238 2822: Tourism Development Department for travel inquiries and visitor assistance
Embassy Contacts
- British High Commission: +673 222 2231
- Australian High Commission: +673 222 0435
- US Embassy: +673 238 4616
- Canadian High Commission (Malaysia-based): +60 3 2718 3333
Other Useful Services
- 991: Immigration Department
- 123: Weather information and forecasts
- Telecoms customer service: 111
Keep these numbers saved for non-urgent situations requiring official assistance, travel support, or general information during your stay in Brunei.
Tips for Calling Brunei
When calling Brunei (UTC+8), timing is crucial for successful connections. The country is 8 hours ahead of UTC, with no daylight saving time changes throughout the year.
For business calls, aim for Brunei's office hours: Monday to Thursday, 7:45 AM to 12:15 PM and 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM; Saturday, 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Offices are closed on Fridays and Sundays. Always schedule business calls in advance, as Bruneians value punctuality and proper planning.
Avoid calling during prayer times, particularly Friday midday prayers. Major holidays to avoid include Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Hari Raya Aidiladha, the Sultan's birthday (July 15), and National Day (February 23).
For optimal connection quality and rates, call during off-peak hours—typically early mornings or late evenings in Brunei. Peak business hours (9:00 AM to 3:00 PM) often mean busier lines.
Communication tips: speak clearly and at a moderate pace, as English is widely spoken but may be a second language for some. Show respect by using formal titles initially, and be mindful of the Islamic cultural context in conversation topics.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Brunei is +673. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Brunei from anywhere in the world.
To dial Brunei from your cell phone, start with + (or your country's international access code), then dial 673 (Brunei's country code), followed by the local number. For example: +673-XXX-XXXX.
Brunei phone numbers typically don't have a leading zero in their local format. Simply dial +673 followed by the complete local number, which is usually 7 digits long for landlines and mobile numbers.
The cheapest way to call Brunei is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Brunei.
In Brunei, the main emergency numbers are: 991 for Police, 995 for Ambulance/Fire, and 993 for Fire and Rescue. These numbers can be dialed free of charge from any phone within Brunei.
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