Scam in UzbekistanBuses and trains
False claim that the airport transfer bus is not running in Uzbekistan
How it works
Taxi drivers insist the terminal transfer bus is not running, pushing you towards a paid taxi ride.
Warning signs
- A taxi driver says the bus is unavailable while offering a ride.
How to avoid it
- Check the bus service with airport staff.
- Look for the Uzport transfer bus or city bus 11.
- If taking a taxi, check the Yandex Go fare first.
If it happens to you
Verify the claim before agreeing to a ride. If you already paid, keep the fare details for any complaint.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase a thief or confront someone who threatens you.
- If you are in immediate danger, call 112. For police, call 102.
- Contact your card issuer immediately if a card or its details are missing. Block the card and ask about disputed payments.
- Save receipts, booking screens, messages and payment records. Write down the time, place and what happened.
- Report theft, fraud or threats to police. Ask for a report reference or written record for insurance.
- Contact your insurer and, if your passport is lost or stolen, 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 false claim that the airport transfer bus is not running scam in Uzbekistan?
Taxi drivers insist the terminal transfer bus is not running, pushing you towards a paid taxi ride.
How can I spot it early?
A taxi driver says the bus is unavailable while offering a ride.
How do I avoid false claim that the airport transfer bus is not running in Uzbekistan?
Check the bus service with airport staff. Look for the Uzport transfer bus or city bus 11. If taking a taxi, check the Yandex Go fare first.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Verify the claim before agreeing to a ride. If you already paid, keep the fare details for any complaint.
Where in Uzbekistan does this happen?
Transfer between international and domestic terminals at Tashkent International Airport It has been reported in Tashkent.
How much can it cost me?
A Yandex Go terminal transfer was about US$2 for a 10-minute ride in December 2024.
How common is this scam in Uzbekistan?
Occasional. Uzbekistan is generally safe for visitors, but tourists can face inflated taxi fares, shortchanging and poor exchange deals. Other risks include the found-cash scam, pickpockets in bazaars and strangers offering to show you the nightlife.
Are there similar scams in Uzbekistan?
Yes: stranger's bill-splitting trick, tourist fare markup by ticket agents.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 102 for police assistance. Report theft, fraud or threats and ask for a written record or reference. Unified emergency service: call 112 in an urgent situation. The service operates 24 hours a day. Card issuer or bank: use the official banking app or a verified contact number to block a card and report unauthorised transactions. Taxi booking service: if you booked through an app, use its support channel and attach the booking details and fare evidence. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a lost passport or a serious incident. Travel insurer: use the claims or assistance contact on your policy. Keep receipts, payment evidence and any police report. Accommodation staff: ask reception for help explaining an incident, finding police assistance or choosing a medical provider.
What number do I call in an emergency in Uzbekistan?
Unified emergency service, available 24/7: 112, Police: 102, Medical emergency: 103, Fire: 101.
Reviewed by @snuck