Scam in EgyptBuses and trains
False claim that tourists cannot buy daytime train tickets in Egypt
How it works
Ticket staff have told tourists that they can only use overnight trains and refused to sell daytime tickets. This is described as a false restriction in reports from 2017–2018, rather than a confirmed current practice.
Warning signs
- You are told that daytime trains are unavailable solely because you are a tourist.
How to avoid it
- Check daytime options directly with Egyptian National Railways.
- Do not accept an unsupported restriction as a reason to buy a different service.
- If needed, ask at another official ticket office; Giza is described as an alternative.
If it happens to you
Seek clarification through the railway's official booking channels or another official counter.
- 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.
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 tourists cannot buy daytime train tickets scam in Egypt?
Ticket staff have told tourists that they can only use overnight trains and refused to sell daytime tickets. This is described as a false restriction in reports from 2017–2018, rather than a confirmed current practice.
How can I spot it early?
You are told that daytime trains are unavailable solely because you are a tourist.
How do I avoid false claim that tourists cannot buy daytime train tickets in Egypt?
Check daytime options directly with Egyptian National Railways. Do not accept an unsupported restriction as a reason to buy a different service. If needed, ask at another official ticket office; Giza is described as an alternative.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Seek clarification through the railway's official booking channels or another official counter.
Where in Egypt does this happen?
Cairo Ramses railway station. It has been reported in Cairo.
How common is this scam in Egypt?
Occasional. 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, extra charge pocketed by a bus ticket seller.
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