Scam in KuwaitTaxis
Extra taxi charges on arrival in Kuwait
How it works
After agreeing on a fare, the driver complains about traffic or unclear directions. The driver then demands more money at the destination. Your bags may still be inside when the dispute starts.
Warning signs
- The driver starts blaming traffic for a higher fare.
- Shortly before arrival, the driver complains that your destination was unclear.
- The driver tries to change the agreed price during the ride.
How to avoid it
- Show the exact destination before setting off.
- Agree clearly on the total price.
- Collect all your bags and leave the taxi before paying.
- Keep the agreed amount ready.
If it happens to you
Once you and your bags are safely outside, calmly repeat the agreed price. Avoid an argument. Seek help if the driver becomes threatening.
- Move to a safe place. Avoid threats or a physical confrontation. Call 112 if you face immediate danger.
- Write down what happened, including the time, location, agreed price and amount paid.
- Save receipts, messages, booking details and any vehicle information you can record safely.
- Contact your card issuer promptly if a card was stolen or used without permission. Ask it to block the card and explain your dispute options.
- Report suspected fraud or theft to the police. For a shop's refusal to provide a required return or exchange, call the Consumer Protection Department on 135.
- Contact your embassy if your passport was stolen or you need consular help. Keep report details for any insurance claim.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/Kuwait2022Careem is total shite, i mean cant we just have the uber, Lyft. i often find cheaper taxi than careem myself then whats the point of booking it using careemA commenter reports that a driver demanded an additional 1.5 KD after being shown an app receipt for a promotional 1 KD journey, which the passenger refused.Read on Reddit
- WebWikivoyageKuwait – Travel guide at WikivoyageThe community travel guide warns that taxi drivers may demand more than the agreed fare at the destination and recommends retrieving luggage before paying.Read on Web
Questions
What is the extra taxi charges on arrival scam in Kuwait?
After agreeing on a fare, the driver complains about traffic or unclear directions. The driver then demands more money at the destination. Your bags may still be inside when the dispute starts.
How can I spot it early?
The driver starts blaming traffic for a higher fare. Shortly before arrival, the driver complains that your destination was unclear. The driver tries to change the agreed price during the ride.
How do I avoid extra taxi charges on arrival in Kuwait?
Show the exact destination before setting off. Agree clearly on the total price. Collect all your bags and leave the taxi before paying. Keep the agreed amount ready.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Once you and your bags are safely outside, calmly repeat the agreed price. Avoid an argument. Seek help if the driver becomes threatening.
Where in Kuwait does this happen?
Street taxis, including orange taxis in Kuwait City It has been reported in Kuwait City.
How common is this scam in Kuwait?
Common. Kuwait has low crime levels and is generally safe for visitors. The main scam risk described here is taxi overcharging, including inflated starting prices and demands for more money on arrival. Check exchange rates and be alert to old Kuwaiti banknotes offered outside the country.
Are there similar scams in Kuwait?
Yes: inflated taxi fares and unused meters, airport taxi demands above the printed fare, shared-taxi overcharging.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report suspected fraud, theft or threats. Call 112 for an emergency; for a non-urgent report, seek help at a police station. Consumer Protection Department: call 135 if you believe a shop is refusing the required return or exchange. Card issuer: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact details to report a stolen card, unauthorised payment or disputed charge. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a stolen passport or other consular needs. Taxi company or booking service: if you booked the ride, report the fare dispute through the company's official contact channel or the booking app. Include the trip details and agreed fare.
What number do I call in an emergency in Kuwait?
Police, fire and ambulance: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck