Scam in EgyptBuses and trains
Extra charge pocketed by a bus ticket seller in Egypt
How it works
The onboard ticket seller raises the fare for a foreign passenger and keeps the extra money.
Warning signs
- The onboard fare is higher than the ticket office quoted.
- The seller asks for an extra amount without a matching ticket or explanation.
How to avoid it
- Ask the ticket office for the fare before boarding.
- Keep the ticket and check the amount charged.
- Question any unexplained difference before paying.
If it happens to you
Ask the seller to explain the difference and provide a ticket for the full amount. Keep the ticket if you report the charge to the operator.
- Get to a safe, public place. End the interaction calmly and do not chase a thief.
- Check whether anyone needs medical help. Call 123 for an ambulance if there is an urgent medical problem.
- Block missing cards and report unauthorised payments to your card issuer. Secure affected accounts and a stolen phone.
- Save receipts, booking details, messages and payment records. Write down the time, location, amount and any vehicle or seller details.
- Report crime to police or a Tourism Police kiosk in a tourist area. Call 122 if you need urgent police assistance, and ask for a report reference.
- Contact your insurer, booking platform or transport operator as relevant. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing or you need consular help.
Questions
What is the extra charge pocketed by a bus ticket seller scam in Egypt?
The onboard ticket seller raises the fare for a foreign passenger and keeps the extra money.
How can I spot it early?
The onboard fare is higher than the ticket office quoted. The seller asks for an extra amount without a matching ticket or explanation.
How do I avoid extra charge pocketed by a bus ticket seller in Egypt?
Ask the ticket office for the fare before boarding. Keep the ticket and check the amount charged. Question any unexplained difference before paying.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask the seller to explain the difference and provide a ticket for the full amount. Keep the ticket if you report the charge to the operator.
Where in Egypt does this happen?
Upper Egypt Bus Co. services between Aswan and Hurghada. It has been reported in Aswan, Hurghada.
How much can it cost me?
About LE5 extra is described; the example is dated.
How common is this scam in Egypt?
Common. Tourist scams and persistent sales pressure are common in Egypt, especially in Luxor and busy tourist areas in Cairo. The main problems are inflated fares, shop diversions, misleading sales claims and demands for payment after unwanted help. Pickpocketing also happens, while reports of drink spiking in budget accommodation deserve particular care.
Are there similar scams in Egypt?
Yes: boat and ferry overcharging, horse-carriage fare changes at the destination, false claim that tourists cannot buy daytime train tickets.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 122 for urgent police assistance. Report theft, threats or suspected fraud and ask for a report reference. Tourism Police: look for a designated Tourism Police kiosk in a tourist area. Explain what happened and show any receipts or other evidence. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact number to block a missing card and report unauthorised transactions. Ride-hailing app, transport operator or booking platform: use its official support channel. Include the booking, driver messages, receipt and agreed price. Travel insurer: contact the claims or emergency-assistance service listed in your policy. Keep police references and supporting documents. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for a lost passport, detention or serious crime. Ask what consular help is available.
What number do I call in an emergency in Egypt?
Police: 122, Ambulance: 123, Fire: 180, Highway: 136.
Reviewed by @snuck