Car Hire at Sultan Ismail Petra Airport – Your Guide to Picking Up a Rental
Sultan Ismail Petra Airport (KUA) sits about 25 kilometers north of Kota Bharu in the state of Kelantan, on Malaysia’s east coast. It’s a small but busy airport that serves as the main gateway to this culturally rich region, known for its traditional batik, mouth-watering nasi kerabu, and proximity to some of Malaysia’s most beautiful islands. If you’re landing here and planning to explore beyond the city, picking up a hire car right at the airport makes the most sense – public transport options are limited and taxis can add up quickly.
The airport has a single terminal building, and the good news is that most rental companies have counters just outside the arrivals hall. You’ll find the usual suspects here – Hertz, Avis, Budget, and a few local operators. It’s worth booking in advance, especially during school holidays and long weekends, as fleet sizes are limited at this smaller airport. Prices start from around €15 per day for a basic sedan, though expect to pay a bit more for an SUV if you’re heading to the islands or into the jungle.
Picking Up Your Rental Car at Sultan Ismail Petra Airport
Once you’ve cleared immigration and collected your bags, you’ll step into the arrivals hall. The rental car counters aren’t inside the terminal itself – you’ll need to head to the designated rental car parking area, which is a short walk from the main building, usually to the left as you exit. Look for the signage or ask at the information desk if you’re unsure.
Most companies will meet you at the parking area with your vehicle, or you’ll be directed to their counter to complete paperwork. You’ll need your driver’s license (an International Driving Permit is recommended if your license isn’t in English), your passport, and a credit card in the main driver’s name. Double-check the fuel policy before you drive off – most companies operate on a full-to-full basis, meaning you pick up the car with a full tank and return it the same way.
Pro tip: take a few minutes to walk around the car and note any existing scratches or damage on the rental agreement. The lighting in the parking area can be dim in the evening, so use your phone torch if needed. It’s a small airport, so the whole process from baggage claim to being on the road usually takes 15-20 minutes.
Where to Go from Sultan Ismail Petra
Having your own wheels opens up the east coast in a way that just isn’t possible otherwise. Here are some popular destinations worth considering:
Kota Bharu City Centre – About 30 minutes’ drive south. The iconic Masjid Muhammadi, the vibrant Central Market, and plenty of good street food stalls await. Parking is available at most attractions but can get busy on weekends.
Kuala Besut Jetty – Roughly 2 hours’ drive south via the East Coast Expressway (E8). This is your launch point for the Perhentian Islands, one of Malaysia’s best snorkeling and diving spots. Leave early to beat the ferry queues.
Kuala Terengganu – About 2 hours’ drive south. Check out the stunning Crystal Mosque, the Islamic Civilisation Museum, and the famous Redang Island if you have more time. The drive is straightforward on the expressway.
Rantau Panjang – Just under an hour north towards the Thai border. If you have a visa or are visa-exempt, you can cross into Thailand here for a day trip to the markets on the other side.
Gua Musang – About 2.5 hours inland through some spectacular mountain scenery. This small town is the gateway to the famous Gua Musang Caves and the surrounding jungle treks.
Tips for Driving in Malaysia
Driving in Malaysia takes a bit of getting used to, but it’s straightforward once you know the basics. First and most important: Malaysians drive on the left side of the road, with the steering wheel on the right. If you’re coming from a left-hand drive country, this will feel strange at first, especially at roundabouts. Take it slow until you’re comfortable.
Speed limits are 110 km/h on expressways, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 50 km/h in built-up areas. Keep an eye out for speed cameras – they’re common and fines can be hefty. The East Coast Expressway (E8) is well-maintained with rest stops roughly every 50 kilometers, complete with petrol stations, food courts, and toilets.
Speaking of petrol, fuel is inexpensive here. RON 95 petrol costs a fraction of what you’d pay in Europe. You’ll find petrol stations everywhere, including near the airport and along major highways. Most accept credit cards, but it’s always handy to have some Malaysian Ringgit cash for smaller stations.
Toll roads are a fact of life in Malaysia. The system uses a Touch ‘n Go card – a prepaid card you can buy and top up at any toll plaza or petrol station. Some booths still take cash, but having a Touch ‘n Go makes the process much smoother. Your rental company can usually provide one or advise where to buy one.
Finally, a word on parking. In Kota Bharu and other towns, you’ll often find parking attendants collecting fees rather than automated machines. Expect to pay a few ringgit, and always keep your parking ticket visible on the dashboard. In more touristy areas like Kuala Besut, parking near the jetty is cramped but manageable if you arrive early.
Ready to explore Malaysia’s east coast at your own pace? Book your rental car today and start planning your adventure – the road trip of a lifetime is just a flight away.