Brunei Darussalam is one of Southeast Asia’s wealthiest nations per capita, supported by strong government finances, a small population, and a resource-based economy. In 2026, salaries in Brunei remain among the highest in the region, especially for citizens and skilled professionals working in oil, gas, government, and specialized services. With tax-free personal income, generous benefits, and a high standard of living, Brunei continues to attract interest from job seekers and analysts alike.
This comprehensive guide explores salaries in Brunei in 2026, including average wages, pay by sector, regional insights, job market trends, and factors that influence earnings.
Economic Overview of Brunei in 2026
Brunei’s economy remains stable in 2026, driven primarily by:
- Oil and natural gas production
- Public sector employment
- Islamic finance and government services
- Gradual diversification into tourism, logistics, and digital services
Key economic features include:
- Very low unemployment
- Strong government subsidies
- No personal income tax
- Heavy reliance on public employment
Although diversification efforts continue, hydrocarbons still dominate wages and employment conditions.
Average Salary in Brunei 2026
In 2026, the average monthly salary in Brunei is estimated at:
BND 2,800 – BND 3,200 per month (gross and net)
Because Brunei does not levy personal income tax, gross salary is effectively equal to take-home pay for most workers.
Salary by experience:
- Entry-level: BND 1,800 – 2,300
- Mid-level professionals: BND 2,800 – 4,000
- Senior specialists & managers: BND 5,000 – 8,000+
Salaries for Bruneian citizens are often higher than for foreign workers due to government pay scales and benefits.
Minimum Wage in Brunei 2026
Brunei does not have a universal statutory minimum wage. Instead:
- Salaries are regulated through employment contracts
- Government roles follow official civil service pay scales
- Private sector wages vary widely by industry and skill level
Low-skilled foreign workers typically earn BND 800 – 1,200 per month, while skilled roles earn significantly more.
Salaries by Industry in Brunei (2026)
1. Oil, Gas & Energy (Highest Paying Sector)
Energy remains Brunei’s top-paying industry.
| Role | Average Salary (BND/month) |
|---|---|
| Petroleum Engineer | 5,500 – 9,000 |
| Process Engineer | 4,800 – 7,500 |
| Geologist | 5,000 – 8,000 |
| Operations Supervisor | 4,000 – 6,500 |
Government-linked companies dominate this sector.
2. Public Sector & Government
Public employment is highly attractive due to stability and benefits.
| Role | Average Salary (BND/month) |
|---|---|
| Administrative Officer | 2,500 – 3,500 |
| Policy Analyst | 3,500 – 5,000 |
| Senior Civil Servant | 5,000 – 7,500 |
| Ministry Director | 7,000 – 10,000 |
Benefits include housing allowances, pensions, and healthcare.
3. Finance & Islamic Banking
Brunei’s financial sector focuses heavily on Islamic finance.
| Role | Average Salary (BND/month) |
|---|---|
| Accountant | 2,500 – 4,000 |
| Financial Analyst | 3,500 – 5,500 |
| Sharia Compliance Officer | 4,000 – 6,500 |
| Bank Manager | 5,000 – 8,000 |
Certifications significantly increase earning potential.
4. Healthcare
Healthcare professionals enjoy strong pay and job security.
| Role | Average Salary (BND/month) |
|---|---|
| General Practitioner | 5,000 – 7,500 |
| Specialist Doctor | 7,000 – 12,000 |
| Registered Nurse | 2,200 – 3,500 |
| Pharmacist | 3,000 – 4,800 |
Many doctors are recruited internationally.
5. Education
Education salaries depend on institution type.
| Role | Average Salary (BND/month) |
|---|---|
| Primary Teacher | 2,200 – 3,200 |
| Secondary Teacher | 2,500 – 3,800 |
| University Lecturer | 3,500 – 6,000 |
| International School Teacher | 3,800 – 6,500 |
Public education roles include pension benefits.
6. Construction & Engineering
Infrastructure projects continue to support wages.
| Role | Average Salary (BND/month) |
|---|---|
| Civil Engineer | 3,500 – 5,500 |
| Site Manager | 4,000 – 6,000 |
| Skilled Technician | 1,800 – 2,800 |
| Construction Worker | 1,000 – 1,600 |
Most manual roles are filled by foreign workers.
7. Retail, Hospitality & Services
These sectors offer lower salaries but steady employment.
| Role | Average Salary (BND/month) |
|---|---|
| Retail Assistant | 900 – 1,300 |
| Hotel Receptionist | 1,200 – 1,800 |
| Restaurant Staff | 800 – 1,200 |
| Customer Service Agent | 1,400 – 2,200 |
Tips and allowances may supplement income.
Regional Salary Differences
Brunei is geographically small, so regional wage differences are limited:
- Bandar Seri Begawan: Highest salaries (government, finance)
- Belait District: High energy-sector wages
- Tutong & Temburong: Lower average salaries
Most high-paying jobs are concentrated in Bandar Seri Begawan and Belait.
Cost of Living in Brunei 2026
Brunei offers a high standard of living with low personal expenses.
Key costs:
- Rent (1-bedroom): BND 600 – 1,200
- Utilities: Heavily subsidized
- Fuel: Extremely cheap
- Healthcare: Mostly free for citizens
With no income tax, most professionals enjoy strong purchasing power.
Top-Paying Jobs in Brunei 2026
- Oil & Gas Engineers
- Medical Specialists
- Senior Government Officials
- Bank Managers & Islamic Finance Experts
- University Professors
- Project & Engineering Managers
Specialized skills and government-linked employment offer the highest income stability.
Employment & Salary Trends for 2026
Key trends shaping Brunei’s labor market:
- Continued dominance of public sector jobs
- Gradual expansion of digital and fintech roles
- Increased hiring of skilled expatriates in healthcare and energy
- Emphasis on local workforce development
- Stable wage growth rather than rapid increases
Salary growth is moderate but stable.
Conclusion
Salaries in Brunei in 2026 remain among the most attractive in Southeast Asia, particularly due to tax-free income, generous benefits, and strong government support. While opportunities are limited in number due to the small population, skilled professionals in energy, healthcare, finance, and government roles enjoy high earning potential and excellent living conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the average salary in Brunei in 2026?
Around BND 2,800 – 3,200 per month, tax-free.
2. Does Brunei have income tax?
No. Brunei does not levy personal income tax.
3. Which jobs pay the most in Brunei?
Oil & gas, healthcare specialists, finance executives, and senior government roles.
4. Is Brunei expensive to live in?
No. Subsidies and tax-free income keep living costs relatively low.
5. Are foreigners allowed to work in Brunei?
Yes, particularly in skilled sectors such as energy, healthcare, and engineering.