Seria · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Seria: The Heart of Brunei's Oil Heritage

Discover Seria, Brunei's oil capital, where industrial heritage meets natural beauty and cultural richness. Perfect for curious minds and those seeking tranquility.

Seria, a quaint town located in the Belait District of Brunei, is known as the oil capital of the country. This small yet significant town plays a pivotal role in Brunei's economy, thanks to its abundant oil reserves. Visitors will find a unique blend of industrial history and serene landscapes in Seria, making it an excellent destination for those interested in the story of oil and its impact on a nation. One of the main attractions in Seria is the Oil and Gas Discovery Centre, an interactive science and technology museum that offers an insightful look into the world of petroleum. The center is perfect for families and curious minds alike, providing hands-on exhibits and educational displays about the oil extraction process and its importance to Brunei. For a touch of nature, tourists can visit the nearby Anduki Recreational Park. This park is a great spot for picnics, bird-watching, and enjoying the tranquil environment. The park features a large man-made lake, walking trails, and children's playgrounds, making it an ideal place for a relaxing day out. Seria also has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its local markets and eateries. Visitors can explore the Seria Market to sample delicious Bruneian cuisine and purchase traditional handicrafts. The town's friendly atmosphere and welcoming locals add to its charm, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.

Explore the guide

What are you looking for in Seria?

Jump straight into the city guide by the kind of discovery you want first.

When is the best time to go to Seria?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning city walks, museum days, and riverside exploring.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsJan–Dec
Longest daylightJan–Dec
Driest periodOct–May

Explore places in Seria

    See all →

    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Seria sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Coco Cabana

    Miri's premier seafront destination, offering vibrant social scenes, stunning sunsets, and cultural experiences by the iconic Seahorse Lighthouse.

    Coco Cabana

    Miri City Fan Recreation Park

    Discover Miri City Fan Recreation Park: a vibrant urban oasis offering gardens, culture, and recreation in the heart of Miri, Sarawak.

    Miri City Fan Recreation Park

    Tamu Muhibbah

    Experience the vibrant culture of Miri at Tamu Muhibbah, a bustling market with local produce, crafts, and delicious Sarawakian delicacies.

    Tamu Muhibbah

    The Grand Old Lady - Canada Hill

    Visit Miri's Canada Hill to see The Grand Old Lady, Malaysia's first oil well, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the South China Sea.

    The Grand Old Lady - Canada Hill

    Miri Handicraft Center

    Discover authentic Sarawakian handicrafts, from intricate beadwork to woven textiles, at Miri's cultural heart.

    Miri Handicraft Center

    Petroleum Museum, Miri, Sarawak.

    Explore Malaysia's oil history at the Petroleum Museum Miri, perched atop scenic Canada Hill, with panoramic city views.

    Petroleum Museum, Miri, Sarawak.

    Lian Hua San San Ching Temple

    Explore Southeast Asia's largest Taoist temple in Miri, Sarawak, featuring stunning architecture and serene gardens. A cultural and spiritual haven.

    Lian Hua San San Ching Temple

    Belait Museum

    Explore the cultural heart of Brunei at the Belait Museum, showcasing the district's history, heritage, and oil & gas industry.

    Belait Museum

    Seria Energy Recreational Park

    Discover a green oasis in Brunei's oil town: Seria Energy Recreational Park, a place for recreation and relaxation.

    Seria Energy Recreational Park

    Seria Beach

    Escape to Seria Beach: Brunei's tranquil coastal retreat with golden sands, gentle waves, and stunning sunset views.

    Seria Beach

    Lamin Kampung

    Discover Brunei's rich heritage at Lamin Kampung: crafts, performances, and cuisine in Tutong.

    Lamin Kampung

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Excapade Japanese Restaurant Seria

    Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Excapade Restaurant in Seria - where every dish tells a story of tradition.

    Excapade Japanese Restaurant Seria

    Kaizen Sushi Seria

    Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Kaizen Sushi Seria - where fresh flavors meet exceptional service in the heart of Brunei.

    Kaizen Sushi Seria

    WYWY RESTAURANT

    Experience the rich flavors of Brunei at WYWY Restaurant - where local traditions meet global cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.

    WYWY RESTAURANT

    Zuki Cafe

    Experience authentic flavors at Zuki Cafe in Seria - a must-visit restaurant blending local charm with international cuisine.

    Zuki Cafe

    Fratini's Restaurant

    Experience the best of Bruneian and Italian cuisine at Fratini's Restaurant in Kuala Belait – where flavor meets hospitality.

    Fratini's Restaurant

    Jollibee Plaza Seria

    Experience authentic Filipino fast food at Jollibee Plaza Seria – where deliciousness meets local charm in Belait.

    Jollibee Plaza Seria

    Santuari Restaurant

    Discover exquisite flavors at Santuari Restaurant in Panaga - where local charm meets culinary excellence.

    Santuari Restaurant

    The Gurkha Palace

    Experience authentic Nepalese cuisine at The Gurkha Palace in Seria—where every dish tells a story.

    The Gurkha Palace

    Tandoor Hut

    Discover authentic Indian flavors at Tandoor Hut in Seria – where every meal is a celebration of taste and tradition.

    Tandoor Hut

    Bibiyana Restaurant & Catering

    Experience authentic Bruneian flavors at Bibiyana Restaurant & Catering in Seria – where every meal tells a story.

    Bibiyana Restaurant & Catering

    WyWy Cafe & Restaurant

    Experience local flavors and cozy dining at WyWy Cafe & Restaurant in Seria – a must-visit culinary gem for every traveler.

    WyWy Cafe & Restaurant

    KFC Seria

    Experience fast food bliss at KFC Seria—enjoy crispy fried chicken and tasty sides in Brunei's vibrant town.

    KFC Seria

    Phở Ngon Vietnamese Restaurant

    Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Phở Ngon in Kuala Belait—where every dish tells a story.

    Phở Ngon Vietnamese Restaurant

    Ah Tong Kueh Tiau

    Discover authentic Chinese noodles at Ah Tong Kueh Tiau in Seria - a must-visit for food lovers exploring Brunei's culinary scene.

    Ah Tong Kueh Tiau

    SOI HENG COFFEE SHOP

    Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at SOI HENG COFFEE SHOP in Seria – where every dish tells a story.

    SOI HENG COFFEE SHOP

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Seria Plaza

    Explore Seria Plaza, the premier shopping mall in Brunei, offering diverse shops and delightful dining options in a vibrant atmosphere.

    Seria Plaza

    SOON LEE Supermarket

    Explore a vibrant selection of local and international foods at SOON LEE Supermarket in Seria, your gateway to Bruneian flavors.

    SOON LEE Supermarket

    NAAFI Families Shop, Brunei Garrison, British Forces Brunei

    Explore the NAAFI Families Shop in Brunei Garrison for a unique grocery shopping experience tailored for military families and visitors.

    NAAFI Families Shop, Brunei Garrison, British Forces Brunei

    MR.DIY

    Explore MR.DIY in Seria for all your home improvement needs with a vast selection of tools, hardware, and decor at unbeatable prices.

    MR.DIY

    Living Culture Brunei

    Discover the essence of Bruneian craftsmanship at Living Culture Brunei, a unique furniture store showcasing local artistry and culture.

    Living Culture Brunei

    The Garrison Thrift Shop, Brunei Darussalam

    Uncover unique finds at The Garrison Thrift Shop, your go-to destination for pre-loved treasures in Kuala Belait, Brunei Darussalam.

    The Garrison Thrift Shop, Brunei Darussalam

    Under Armour Seria

    Discover top-quality athletic gear at Under Armour Seria, the premier sporting goods store in Seria, perfect for all your fitness needs.

    Under Armour Seria

    Tamu Seria

    Explore local flavors and essentials at Tamu Seria, a vibrant supermarket in Seria with a wide selection of products and a welcoming atmosphere.

    Tamu Seria

    Happy Star Seria

    Explore Happy Star Seria, a charming store in Seria offering unique souvenirs and local treasures that capture the essence of the region.

    Happy Star Seria

    Intracorp (B) Sdn Bhd - Seria Showroom

    Explore a vibrant collection of modern furniture and innovative electronics at Intracorp Showroom in Seria, the heart of Brunei's shopping scene.

    Intracorp (B) Sdn Bhd - Seria Showroom

    GL Extra Enterprise

    Discover the best outdoor gear at GL Extra Enterprise in Seria, your one-stop shop for camping, diving, and adventure essentials.

    GL Extra Enterprise

    Milimewah Seria

    Discover a diverse range of products at Milimewah Seria, your ultimate shopping destination in Brunei for an unforgettable experience.

    Milimewah Seria

    Lowee Hobby Store

    Explore the eclectic offerings of Lowee Hobby Store in Seria, your destination for unique gifts and hobby supplies.

    Lowee Hobby Store

    Sarah homedecor enterprise

    Discover unique furniture and home decor at Sarah Homedecor Enterprise in Seria, where style meets functionality for every taste.

    Sarah homedecor enterprise

    RCBN COLLECTION

    Explore RCBN Collection in Kuala Belait for unique fashion finds that blend local culture with contemporary style, perfect for every tourist's wardrobe.

    RCBN COLLECTION

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

    Kaizen Sushi Seria

    Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Kaizen Sushi Seria, where traditional flavors meet modern dining in the heart of Seria.

    Kaizen Sushi Seria

    Zuki Cafe

    Experience the warmth and flavors of Zuki Cafe in Seria, where delicious dishes and friendly service create a memorable dining experience.

    Zuki Cafe

    Bicara

    Discover the serene ambiance of Bicara, Seria's favorite coffee shop offering specialty brews and a cozy atmosphere for relaxation.

    Bicara

    Universal Cafe

    Discover Universal Cafe in Seria for delicious local dishes, a cozy atmosphere, and an affordable dining experience that captures the essence of Brunei.

    Universal Cafe

    Grand Seria Bowling Centre

    Experience the excitement of bowling at Grand Seria Bowling Centre in Seria, where fun meets friendly competition in a vibrant atmosphere.

    Grand Seria Bowling Centre

    The Gurkha Palace

    Experience the authentic taste of Nepal at The Gurkha Palace in Seria, where traditional cuisine meets warm hospitality.

    The Gurkha Palace

    Tandoor Hut

    Experience the authentic flavors of India at Tandoor Hut in Seria, where culinary tradition meets a warm and inviting atmosphere.

    Tandoor Hut

    WyWy Cafe & Restaurant

    Discover a culinary oasis at WyWy Cafe & Restaurant in Seria, where local flavors meet international cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

    WyWy Cafe & Restaurant

    SOI HENG COFFEE SHOP

    Discover the rich flavors of authentic Chinese cuisine at Soi Heng Coffee Shop, Seria's culinary gem offering delightful dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

    SOI HENG COFFEE SHOP

    Fratini's

    Experience the flavors of Seria at Fratini's, where delicious cuisine meets a welcoming atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.

    Fratini's

    CA Mohamed Seria

    Experience the best of Bruneian and international cuisine at CA Mohamed Seria, a top restaurant in Seria, perfect for food lovers.

    CA Mohamed Seria

    The Upper Place

    Discover The Upper Place, an event venue and cafe in Seria, offering a unique blend of gatherings, relaxation, and delightful culinary experiences.

    The Upper Place

    Gong Cha Seria

    Discover the best bubble tea experience in Seria with Gong Cha's unique flavors and inviting atmosphere.

    Gong Cha Seria

    Cheng Wah Restaurant 京华酒楼

    Experience authentic Bruneian flavors at Cheng Wah Restaurant, a top dining destination in Seria offering a delightful culinary journey.

    Cheng Wah Restaurant 京华酒楼

    The Hoof Inn

    Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kuala Belait at The Hoof Inn, a premier bar offering a perfect blend of atmosphere and exceptional drinks.

    The Hoof Inn

    Popular Experiences in Seria

    Top-rated options near you

    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    Popular Hotels in Seria

    Top-rated options near you

    Practical planning

    Seria Essentials

    Core city planning details in the same structured guide format used across the Country/Region page language.

    How to Get There

    Seria is located in the Belait District of Brunei. The nearest international airport is Brunei International Airport in Bandar Seri Begawan, which is approximately 100 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car for the journey to Seria. There are also bus services that connect Bandar Seri Begawan to Seria, although they may be less frequent. The drive typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours along the coastal highway, offering scenic views of the South China Sea.

    Transportation

    Seria is a small town, making it easy to navigate on foot. For longer trips within the town or to nearby areas, taxis are a convenient option. Car rental services are available and can be a practical choice for exploring at your own pace. There are also local buses that operate within Seria and connect to other towns in the Belait District. Be aware that public transportation schedules may be limited, so planning ahead is advisable.

    Currency and Payment

    The official currency in Brunei is the Brunei Dollar (BND), which is interchangeable with the Singapore Dollar (SGD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores in Seria. However, it is a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Seria, and you can withdraw cash using international credit and debit cards.

    Safety

    Seria is generally a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. Nonetheless, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.

    Emergency Situations

    In case of emergency, dial 993 for police assistance and 991 for medical emergencies. The nearest hospital is the Suri Seri Begawan Hospital in Kuala Belait, around 15 kilometers away from Seria. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in Seria where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

    Do's and Don'ts

    Fashion: Do dress modestly, as Brunei is a conservative country. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, especially in public places. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting mosques, remove your shoes and cover your head if you are a woman. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous. Avoid loud conversations and respect seating arrangements. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a nod. Handshakes are common but use the right hand only. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and beverages. However, don't eat or drink in public during the fasting month of Ramadan, as it is considered disrespectful.

    Local Tips

    To experience Seria like a local, visit the local markets and food stalls where you can sample traditional Bruneian snacks and dishes. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share insights about their culture and history. Don't miss visiting the Oil and Gas Discovery Centre, which provides fascinating insights into the region's oil industry. For a leisurely experience, take a stroll along the Seria Energy Lab (SEL) park, a popular spot for families and fitness enthusiasts.

    History of Seria

    Follow the city from Roman Londinium to its modern global identity through landmark moments that still shape the visitor experience.

    Discovery of Oil

    In 1929, oil was discovered in Seria by the British Malayan Petroleum Company (BMPC), a subsidiary of Shell. This discovery marked the beginning of Brunei's transformation into a wealthy nation. The first successful well, known as Seria-1, was drilled to a depth of 974 feet and produced a significant amount of oil, forever changing the economic landscape of Brunei.

    Development of the Seria Oilfield

    Following the discovery of oil, the Seria Oilfield rapidly developed into a major production site. By the 1940s, Seria had hundreds of wells, and the town became the heart of Brunei's oil industry. The influx of workers from various parts of the world contributed to the town’s cultural diversity and growth.

    World War II Impact

    During World War II, Seria was occupied by Japanese forces from 1941 to 1945. The oil facilities were heavily damaged to prevent them from falling into enemy hands. Post-war, the British quickly moved to restore the oil production capabilities, leading to a period of rapid reconstruction and modernization in Seria.

    Nationalization of Oil and Gas Industry

    In the 1970s, Brunei began the process of nationalizing its oil and gas industry. The Brunei National Petroleum Company (PetroleumBRUNEI) was established to oversee the sector. This shift allowed Brunei to have greater control over its natural resources and significantly increased national revenues, which were used for social development.

    Seria’s Cultural Mosaic

    Seria is a melting pot of cultures due to its history as an oil town attracting workers and their families from around the world. This diversity is reflected in the town’s vibrant community life, with various cultural festivals, cuisines, and languages contributing to its unique character.

    The Billionth Barrel Monument

    In 1991, the Billionth Barrel Monument was erected to celebrate the production of the billionth barrel of oil from the Seria Oilfield. This iconic structure symbolizes the town's historical and economic significance to Brunei and stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the oil industry in Seria.

    Modern-Day Seria

    Today, Seria continues to be a pivotal town in Brunei’s oil industry, with ongoing exploration and production activities. The town has grown into a well-developed area, featuring modern amenities and infrastructure while maintaining its historical roots and cultural diversity.

    Phrasebook

    Local Phrases

    Browse practical local phrases by situation. Each group opens only when needed, keeping the guide tidy while preserving the full phrase set.

    6 phrase groups English + pronunciation
    Basics
    • HelloHalo
      [ha-loh]
    • GoodbyeSelamat tinggal
      [seh-la-maht ting-gahl]
    • YesYa
      [yah]
    • NoTidak
      [tee-dahk]
    • Please/You're welcomeSila
      [see-lah]
    • Thank youTerima kasih
      [teh-ree-mah kah-see]
    • Excuse me/SorryMaaf
      [mah-ahf]
    • How are you?Apa khabar?
      [ah-pah kah-bahr]
    • Fine. And you?Baik. Dan awda?
      [bah-eek. dahn ow-dah]
    • Do you speak English?Awda boleh bercakap Bahasa Inggeris?
      [ow-dah boh-leh ber-chah-kahp bah-hah-sah ing-geh-rees]
    • I don't understandSaya tidak faham
      [sah-yah tee-dahk fah-hahm]
    Eating & Drinking
    • I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaya mahu melihat menu, sila
      [sah-yah mah-who meh-lee-haht meh-noo, see-lah]
    • I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging
      [sah-yah tee-dahk mah-kahn dah-yahng]
    • Cheers!Sihat!
      [see-haht]
    • I would like to pay, pleaseSaya mahu membayar, sila
      [sah-yah mah-who mem-bah-yahr, see-lah]
    Emergencies
    • Help!Tolong!
      [toh-lohng]
    • Go away!Pergi jauh-jauh!
      [pehr-gee jah-oo-jah-oo]
    • Call the Police!Panggil polis!
      [pahng-geel poh-lees]
    • Call a doctor!Panggil doktor!
      [pahng-geel dohk-tohr]
    • I'm lostSaya sesat
      [sah-yah seh-saht]
    • I'm illSaya sakit
      [sah-yah sah-keet]
    Shopping
    • I'd like to buy...Saya ingin membeli...
      [sah-yah een-geen mem-buh-lee]
    • I'm just lookingSaya hanya melihat
      [sah-yah hahn-yah meh-lee-haht]
    • How much is it?Berapa harganya?
      [beh-rah-pah har-gahn-yah]
    • That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal
      [ee-too tehr-lah-loo mah-hahl]
    • Can you lower the price?Bolehkah awda turunkan harga?
      [boh-leh-kah ow-dah too-roon-kahn har-gah]
    Time & Numbers
    • What time is it?Pukul berapa sekarang?
      [poo-kool beh-rah-pah seh-kah-rahn]
    • It's one o'clockPukul satu
      [poo-kool sah-too]
    • Half past (10)Setengah (sepuluh)
      [seh-teh-ngah (seh-poo-loo)]
    • MorningPagi
      [pah-gee]
    • AfternoonPetang
      [peh-tahng]
    • EveningMalam
      [mah-lahm]
    • YesterdaySemalam
      [seh-mah-lahm]
    • TodayHari ini
      [hah-ree ee-nee]
    • TomorrowEsok
      [eh-sohk]
    • 1Satu
      [sah-too]
    • 2Dua
      [doo-ah]
    • 3Tiga
      [tee-gah]
    • 4Empat
      [em-paht]
    • 5Lima
      [lee-mah]
    • 6Enam
      [eh-nahm]
    • 7Tujuh
      [too-joo]
    • 8Lapan
      [lah-pahn]
    • 9Sembilan
      [sehm-bee-lahn]
    • 10Sepuluh
      [seh-poo-loo]
    Transport & Directions
    • Where's a/the...?Di mana...
      [dee mah-nah]
    • What's the address?Alamatnya di mana?
      [ah-lah-mah-nyah dee mah-nah]
    • Can you show me (on the map)?Bolehkah awda tunjukkan pada saya (di peta)?
      [boh-leh-kah ow-dah toon-jook-kahn pah-dah sah-yah (dee peh-tah)]
    • When's the next (bus)?Bila bas seterusnya?
      [bee-lah bahs se-teh-roos-nyah]
    • A ticket (to ....)Satu tiket (ke ....)
      [sah-too tee-keht (keh ....)]

    Explore Seria in Photos

    A quick visual tour through classic views, riverside landmarks, royal streets, and skyline moments.

    File:Seria Oil Refinery (early).jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Billionth Barrel Monument, Brunei.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Skim Tanah Kurnia Rakyat Jati Lorong Tina Selatan Seria Mosque.jpg -  Wikimedia Commons
    File:Oil and Gas Discovery Centre.jpg - Wikipedia

    Planning another trip?

    Continue exploring nearby destinations and classic BN city breaks after Seria.

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.