Kota Bharu Airport (KBR) Car Hire (KBR)

Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (KBR) is located 9 km northeast of Kota Bharu city center and has three car rental companies in the arrivals hall. The airport is the gateway to Kelantan and a perfect place to pick up a car to explore the coastline toward Cherating or head inland to the Perhentian Island ferries in Kuala Besut, 75 km south. KBR serves daily flights from Kuala Lumpur operated by AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines.

KBR airport is small and manageable with short waiting times at baggage claim. The area around the airport is green countryside with rice fields and traditional kampung villages. Kota Bharu city center can be reached in 15–20 minutes via Jalan Sultan Yahya Petra.

Book your rental car in advance – supply at KBR is limited with only three rental companies and cars can sell out during peak season. Drive south via Route 3 along the coast for a beautiful journey toward Terengganu. Bring cash – not all rental companies at the airport accept international credit cards.

How long does it take to drive from KBR to Kuala Besut for the Perhentian ferry? Kuala Besut is approximately 75 km south, about 1 hour and 15 minutes' drive via Route 3. Which car rental companies are at KBR airport?

There are 3 rental companies at the airport. Check hyrbilar.com for current options and prices. Can I return the car in Kuala Lumpur after picking it up in Kota Bharu?

Some rental companies offer one-way rentals but there is often a fee. Check this when booking.

We compare prices from all major providers at Kota Bharu Airport (KBR) so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.