Scam in JordanOnline bookings
A questionable online Aqaba airport shuttle in Jordan
How it works
An online service advertised as an Aqaba airport shuttle has attracted numerous reviews alleging a scam. The exact method is not described.
Warning signs
- You find repeated complaints about the advertised shuttle.
- You cannot independently confirm who will provide the transfer.
How to avoid it
- Check independent reviews before paying.
- Ask your hotel or dive operator to arrange a transfer.
- Consider the airport taxis with prices displayed on a large sign.
If it happens to you
Save the booking and payment records. Contact the seller and your payment provider about a refund.
- 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 questionable online Aqaba airport shuttle scam in Jordan?
An online service advertised as an Aqaba airport shuttle has attracted numerous reviews alleging a scam. The exact method is not described.
How can I spot it early?
You find repeated complaints about the advertised shuttle. You cannot independently confirm who will provide the transfer.
How do I avoid a questionable online Aqaba airport shuttle in Jordan?
Check independent reviews before paying. Ask your hotel or dive operator to arrange a transfer. Consider the airport taxis with prices displayed on a large sign.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Save the booking and payment records. Contact the seller and your payment provider about a refund.
Where in Jordan does this happen?
A website offering an Aqaba airport shuttle run by an Israeli company. It has been reported in Aqaba.
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.
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