Scam in JordanTaxis
A driver changes your sightseeing destination in Jordan
How it works
A driver tries to convince you that the Roman Theater is better so they can leave you at the bottom of the hill instead of driving up to the Citadel.
Warning signs
- The driver argues against your chosen destination.
- They keep suggesting the Roman Theater when you ask for the Citadel.
How to avoid it
- Clearly name the Citadel as your destination.
- Use the supplied local name, al'Aqal, if needed.
- Confirm the drop-off before leaving.
If it happens to you
Restate the agreed destination and ask to be taken there.
- Get to a safe, public place. Avoid physical confrontation. Call 911 if you are threatened or in immediate danger.
- Write down what happened, including the time, place, vehicle details and amount paid.
- Save receipts, screenshots, messages and booking records. Photograph relevant details only when safe.
- Contact your card issuer if your card was stolen or used without permission. Ask about freezing the card and disputing charges.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to police. Ask for a report or reference number for insurance.
- Contact the booking service, accommodation or transport platform involved. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the a driver changes your sightseeing destination scam in Jordan?
A driver tries to convince you that the Roman Theater is better so they can leave you at the bottom of the hill instead of driving up to the Citadel.
How can I spot it early?
The driver argues against your chosen destination. They keep suggesting the Roman Theater when you ask for the Citadel.
How do I avoid a driver changes your sightseeing destination in Jordan?
Clearly name the Citadel as your destination. Use the supplied local name, al'Aqal, if needed. Confirm the drop-off before leaving.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Restate the agreed destination and ask to be taken there.
Where in Jordan does this happen?
Journeys to the Citadel, with drivers suggesting the Roman Theater instead. It has been reported in Amman.
How common is this scam in Jordan?
Occasional. Jordan is relatively safe, but tourist overcharging is common when prices are not agreed in advance. The main problems involve taxis, commission-driven recommendations and misleading offers; threats and serious cheating are rare.
Are there similar scams in Jordan?
Yes: taxi meter refusal and inflated fares, a whole-taxi price becomes a per-person price, luggage held in the taxi boot.
Who can I report it to?
Emergency services: call 911 for police, paramedics or firefighting in an emergency. Police: report theft, fraud or threats. Bring receipts, screenshots, vehicle details and a written account. Ask for a report or reference number. Tourist police at Petra: seek help at the tourist police kiosk at Petra. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the contact number on your card to report theft or unauthorised charges and ask about payment disputes. Ride-hailing or booking service: use the support channel linked to your trip or booking. Include the agreed price, payment record and details of any extra demand. Airport security supervisor: for disputed confiscations at Aqaba airport, calmly request a supervisor, an explanation and a written record where possible. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is lost or stolen, or you need help after a serious incident.
What number do I call in an emergency in Jordan?
Central emergency line: police, paramedics and firefighting: 911.
Reviewed by @snuck