Grab in Bintan: How to Use GrabCar on Bintan Island
Many first-time travelers ask whether Grab is available in Bintan and how it works.
The short answer is yes. GrabCar operates in certain parts of Bintan, but not island-wide. Understanding the coverage area will help you plan your transport smoothly.
Is Grab Available in Bintan?
GrabCar is officially available in the Bintan Resorts Area starting from 6 May 2025.
This service mainly supports visitors staying in the Lagoi area. Many hotels, beaches, and attractions inside Bintan Resorts can now be reached using the Grab app.
However, Grab does not yet cover the entire island.
Where GrabCar Operates in Bintan
Currently, Grab operates within the Bintan Resorts Area and Tanjung Pinang city area.
Within this zone, GrabCar is suitable for short and direct trips such as:
Transfers from Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal to nearby hotels
Rides between resorts in Lagoi
Trips to public areas like Lagoi Bay Beach
Visitors also commonly use Grab to reach:
Pujasera Lagoi for local dining
Treasure Bay Bintan, home to the Crystal Lagoon
If both your pickup and drop-off points are inside the Bintan Resorts zone, booking a GrabCar is generally straightforward.
Areas Not Covered by Grab
Grab does not operate, or may be difficult to access, in certain parts of Bintan. These include:
The eastern side of the island
The Trikora area
The Residence Bintan area
Attractions located outside the Bintan Resorts zone
For travel to these areas, alternative transport arrangements are recommended.
Transport Options Beyond Grab
For short distances within Lagoi and the Bintan Resorts area, GrabCar is practical and easy to use.
However, outside the resort zone, transportation options are more limited. Here are the main alternatives:
Hotel Taxi – Most hotels provide a taxi counter service. You can arrange transport directly at your hotel and inform them of your travel plans.
Private Car Hire – A popular option in Bintan. You can hire a car with a driver for several hours or a full day. This works best if you already have a planned itinerary.
Customized Tours in Bintan – A highly recommended option among travelers. Customized tours typically include private transport, a driver-guide, entrance fees and selected activities want to try. All arrangements are confirmed in advance, with clear pricing and no hidden fees.
Travel Tips
If you are staying in Lagoi and planning simple point-to-point travel, Grab is a convenient solution.
Download the Grab app before arrival and confirm that your pickup location is within the Bintan Resorts Area.
If you’re planning to explore Bintan, you can request a customized tour with Bintan Travel Guide (BTG). This option is all-in-one and typically includes private transport, a driver, entrance fees, and full arrangements in advance.
The experience is personalized and tailored to your travel preferences, making it a convenient and flexible way to discover the island.
Understanding transport coverage in Bintan will help you plan efficiently and move around the island with fewer disruptions.
Written by Sigit Supriadi, based in Bintan, sharing practical tips and local insights to help travelers plan easier, more personalized, and well-organized trips.
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Bintan Travel Guide (BTG)
Written by Sigit Supriadi, based in Bintan, sharing practical tips and local insights to help travelers plan easier, more personalized, and well-organized trips.
Learn more about
Our Services
Bintan Travel Guide (BTG)
