As a tourist visiting Brunei, getting a local Imagine SIM Card and eSIM for your smartphone is crucial to staying connected on the go.
In this detailed guide, we will cover everything you need to know about using Imagine SIM Cards and eSIM while traveling in Brunei – from network coverage and speeds to SIM card options, activation, call rates, and more.
Table of Contents
I. Quick facts about Imagine
Imagine is the leading mobile operator in Brunei. Here are some key facts about this mobile operator:
1. Network technology
- 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE network
- 5G trials planned for 2023 launch
2. Market share
- 62% subscriber market share
- Over 400,000 subscribers
3. Ownership
- Fully owned by the Brunei government
- Part of the Telekom Brunei group
4. Services
- Postpaid & prepaid mobile plans
- Mobile broadband & home internet
- International roaming
With wide 4G LTE coverage, competitive rates, and a majority local market share, Imagine is a good option for tourists visiting Brunei.
II. Brunei Imagine Coverage and Speed in Brunei
As the leading Brunei provider, Imagine offers extensive coverage:
- Coverage: Brunei Imagine provides extensive coverage across Brunei, including major cities, towns, and rural areas. The network coverage is designed to reach a significant portion of the country’s population.
- Network Infrastructure: Brunei Imagine has invested in building a robust network infrastructure, including a combination of towers, antennas, and other equipment strategically placed throughout the country.
- 4G/LTE Coverage: 97% of populated areas in Brunei, all major towns and cities, major highways and roads. 4G speeds average 10-30 Mbps down and 5-15 Mbps up. Congestion may limit speeds below 5 Mbps at times.
- Internet Speed: Brunei Imagine aims to provide fast and reliable internet speeds to its customers. The actual speed experienced by users can vary depending on factors such as location, network congestion, device capabilities, and network upgrades.
- International roaming: Imagine has roaming agreements to access 190+ overseas mobile networks. So you can also use Imagine Abroad, subject to roaming fees. We cover their roaming rates later.
With fast LTE across Brunei plus roaming worldwide, Imagine connectivity should meet most visitor needs.
III. Imagine connectivity options for travelers to Brunei
Imagine offers both short-term prepaid SIMs and medium-term tourist SIMs well-suited for visitors.
| Connectivity Options | Pros | Cons |
| Prepaid SIM Card | - Easy to purchase and activate | - May require unlocking of your device to use with the Imagine network |
| - Flexible usage with various data and calling plans | - Limited validity period, may require frequent top-ups | |
| - Widely available coverage | - Potential language barrier when purchasing and setting up the SIM card | |
| - Suitable for short-term travelers | - Limited support for international roaming | |
| eSIM Plan | - No physical SIM card required | - Limited device compatibility; requires eSIM-capable devices |
| - Easy setup and management | - Limited availability of eSIM support globally | |
| - Flexible data options and auto-renewal | - Potential difficulty in finding eSIM support and assistance while traveling | |
| - Suitable for travelers with eSIM-capable devices | - May not support calling and SMS services directly; may require additional apps for that | |
| WiFi Hotspots | - Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public areas | - Limited range and coverage; requires proximity to a hotspot |
| - Can provide reliable and high-speed internet | - Inconvenience of connecting and disconnecting to different hotspots | |
| - Suitable for devices without cellular connectivity | - Additional costs and potential security risks when using public or paid WiFi hotspots |
In summary, Imagine provides various internet connection choices for tourists in Brunei. The most suitable option will vary depending on the traveler’s network requirements and duration of their trip.
IV. Best Imagine SIM cards for tourists & cost
For most tourists, Imagine’s prepaid SIM cards offer the best value and convenience.
| Prepaid Plans | Price (USD) | Data Allowance | Calling Minutes | Text Messages | Validity |
| Plan A | $10 | 2 GB | 100 minutes | 100 SMS | 30 days |
| Plan B | $20 | 5 GB | 200 minutes | 200 SMS | 30 days |
| Plan C | $30 | 10 GB | 300 minutes | 300 SMS | 30 days |
| Plan D | $50 | 20 GB | 500 minutes | 500 SMS | 30 days |
You can also get daily, weekly and monthly recurring packs. For longer trips, monthly data packs provide the best rates.
The prepaid tourist SIM makes it easy to control your spending and eases SIM purchase on arrival.
V. Does Imagine Brunei support eSIM?
1. No eSIM availability
Unfortunately, Imagine does not yet offer any eSIM (virtual SIM) services for phones or tablets.
As of late 2023, eSIM availability in Brunei remains very limited across all providers. Only DST offers an eSIM app solely for iPhone users.
If you want to try DST eSIM you can try it from esimbrunei.com, which offers a range of eSIM data plans for tourists with convenient activate and affordable prices.
Plan that may interest you
VI. Where can you buy an Imagine SIM card in Brunei
It’s easy to find Imagine SIM cards in Brunei, sold at:
- Imagine stores: For the widest range of SIM cards plus help troubleshooting or top-ups, visit an official Imagine store.
- Other retailers: Convenience stores, petrol stations, and some hotels also sell standard Imagine prepaid SIMs
- Brunei airport arrivals: You can also conveniently buy prepaid Imagine SIM cards right upon arrival at Brunei International Airport. Find the Imagine counter located past immigration in the arrivals hall area.
So in summary, Imagine SIMs are conveniently available across Brunei. Stores offer the widest support while airport arrival desks provide a quick option for new visitors.
VII. How to activate Brunei Imagine SIM Cards and eSIM
To start using your Brunei Imagine SIM card, follow these steps:
Purchase a SIM Card
Get a Brunei Imagine SIM card from a retail store, authorized reseller, or online.
Insert the SIM Card
Find the SIM card slot on your mobile device, ensure the device is powered off, and insert the Imagine Brunei SIM card.
Power On Your Device
Turn on your mobile device and wait for it to detect the SIM card.
Set Network Setting
Your device should automatically configure the network settings. If not, manually enter the APN (Access Point Name) settings for Brunei Imagine. You can find the correct APN settings on the Brunei Imagine website or contact their customer support.
Activate the SIM
After your device is connected to the network, you may need to activate your Brunei Imagine SIM card by dialing a specific activation number or sending an activation SMS to a designated number provided by Imagine. Activation instructions should be included with the SIM card packaging or available on the official website.
Follow Activation Instructions
Follow the specific instructions provided by Imagine to complete the activation process. This may involve entering certain codes, confirming personal details, or following prompts on your device.
Test Connectivity
Once the activation process is complete, test your connectivity by making a test call, sending a text message, or accessing the internet using mobile data. Make sure your device is properly connected to the Brunei Imagine network.
It's important to note that the exact activation process may vary depending on the specific Brunei Imagine SIM card and any special promotions or requirements.
VIII. Brunei Imagine SIM Cards and eSIM Call & SMS rates
On both regular and tourist prepaid SIMs, Imagine charges competitive rates for calls and texts to local Brunei numbers:
| Call & SMS Rates (Imagine Brunei) | Rates (in USD per minute/SMS) |
| Local Calls | $0.15 |
| Local SMS | $0.05 per text, $0.15 for MMS |
| International Calls | Varies by country |
| International SMS | Approximately $0.10 to $0.25 per message |
| Roaming Calls (Incoming) | Varies by country |
| Roaming Calls (Outgoing) | Varies by country |
| Roaming SMS (Outgoing) | Varies by country |
So minimizing overseas communication when possible helps reduce costs. But staying in touch locally when traveling is affordable.
X. Useful USSD codes for Brunei Imagine SIM cards and eSIM
To check your Imagine SIM cards and eSIM status, top up, or enable services – you can dial Imagine’s USSD codes:
Simply open your phone dial-pad and enter the codes below.
- Check prepaid balance:
*101# - Activate roaming:
*133*1# - Deactivate roaming:
*133*2#
Check our list of other USSD prepaid to get more useful information: Full list of other USSD prepaid codes
X. How to top-up Imagine SIM cards and eSIM
Keeping your Imagine prepaid credit topped up lets you make calls, send texts, and refill mobile data.
- Online top-ups: Login to Imagine’s Reload portal using your: Passport number, and repaid mobile number. Payment by credit/debit cards or PayPal.
- Top-up codes: Alternatively, purchase prepaid top-up cards from Imagine stores and retailers containing codes to enter and redeem.
- Registration terminals: You can also top-up in person at Imagine stores/outlets via Cash payments, and credit/debit card terminals.
So online and in-store reloads both offer ways to top-up your Imagine SIM cards and eSIM based on convenience. Avoiding disconnections when traveling.
XI. Alternatives to Brunei Imagine SIM Cards and eSIM
As the larger network, Imagine has better coverage and tourist prepaid options. But DST does offer limited eSIM capabilities lacking with Imagine currently.
DST tourist SIMs have much shorter 7-day validity though. Making Imagine the preferred pick for most visitors.
International roaming on your existing SIM also works as a connectivity option in Brunei’s main urban areas. But local SIMs provide cheaper local rates compared to roaming.
So while alternatives exist, Imagine SIM cards deliver the best overall tourist experience. With extensive 4G networks, competitive rates, and easy self-service options using prepaid SIMs.
If you are looking for another option, consider buying an eSIM from a top eSIM provider in Brunei- esimbrunei.com. Here’s what makes esimbrunei.com stand out:
- Variety & Flexibility: Choose among a wide array of data packages that are best suited for your goals.
- Multiple Network Coverage: They take care of the technical aspect by collaborating with three main Brunei mobile providers – DST, Imagine, and Progresif – so that you get a fast and reliable connection during your trip smoothly and uninterrupted.
- Top-notch Customer Service: They offer 24/7 customer support so you can get assistance if needed.
- Affordable Prices: Their local SIM cards are competitively priced, offering excellent value for money.
XII. FAQs about Imagine SIM Cards and eSIM in Brunei
Do I need to show ID to buy a SIM card in Brunei?
Yes, you need to show: A valid passport, Brunei visa if required. To legally register prepaid SIM purchases in Brunei.
Can I use Imagine SIMs in other Asian countries?
Yes, Imagine has roaming agreements to access networks in 190+ overseas countries.
But expect higher roaming rates when using Imagine SIMs abroad. International day passes or local SIMs usually work out cheaper.
What network bands and frequencies does Imagine use?
Imagine uses common LTE bands supporting most international phones:
2G – 900/1800 MHz
3G – 2100 MHz
4G/LTE – 700/900/1800/2600 MHz (B3/B8/B1/B7)
5G – Launching 700/3500 MHz first
So unlocked quad-band and 4G LTE phones usually work on Imagine. 5G support may require future handset upgrades once launched.
Are VoLTE and WiFi calls supported?
Yes – Imagine networks allow:
VoLTE voice over LTE calls for improved clarity
WiFi calling via home/public WiFi networks
Both useful features when indoor coverage struggles or rural locations have limited cellular access relying on WiFi.
So while Imagine lacks eSIMs, they deliver a full-featured mobile network experience meeting common use cases.
How is Imagine coverage outside Bandar Seri Begawan?
4G speeds remain LTE across Brunei main highways and cities like Tutong and Seria. But rural villages revert to patchy 3G/2G with slower data. Still allowing calls and texts nationwide though when traveling off the beaten track.
XIII. Final words
With Imagine’s prepaid SIM cards, you can count on reliable connectivity and fast speeds in populated areas of Brunei. This makes it convenient for tourists to access maps, translation services, ride-hailing apps, and social media throughout their trip, regardless of their knowledge of the local mobile network.
Simply install a nano SIM, top up as needed, and take advantage of Imagine’s extensive 4G network at competitive prepaid rates. This will help you make the most of your time experiencing Brunei’s natural attractions, heritage sites, cuisine, and welcoming culture.
So, whether you pick up a prepaid tourist Imagine SIM card at the airport or order it online, just insert it into your phone and enjoy affordable connectivity throughout enchanting Brunei.”
