Scam in JordanBuses and trains
False claims that other transport or services are unavailable in Jordan
How it works
A tout or driver says your alternative does not exist, is unavailable or goes the wrong way. This pushes you towards their service. One example is a taxi driver falsely saying there are no buses from the Allenby Bridge into Jordan.
Warning signs
- Someone selling a service says theirs is your only option.
- A driver claims there are no buses and urges you to leave immediately.
How to avoid it
- Check with transport staff or another independent person.
- Get more than one quote.
- Do not treat a seller's claim as proof that alternatives are unavailable.
If it happens to you
Check your onward options independently before paying for another service.
- 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.
- TripadvisorJordan ForumTaxi drivers: warningA guesthouse owner reports that a driver falsely told guests there was no bus to Petra and took them to an office whose only departure had already left.Read on Tripadvisor
- TripadvisorTripadvisor attraction reviewsDriver and more - All You SHOULD Know Before Going 2026 (with Reviews)A reviewer says a driver claimed all return taxis from Ma'in were booked, but they readily obtained another taxi for half his quoted price.Read on Tripadvisor
- Redditr/travel2024Quick Jordan thoughts (Petra)...you might be offended!A traveller reports being told that the free shuttle to Little Petra was shut down despite it being an available alternative.Read on Reddit
Questions
What is the false claims that other transport or services are unavailable scam in Jordan?
A tout or driver says your alternative does not exist, is unavailable or goes the wrong way. This pushes you towards their service. One example is a taxi driver falsely saying there are no buses from the Allenby Bridge into Jordan.
How can I spot it early?
Someone selling a service says theirs is your only option. A driver claims there are no buses and urges you to leave immediately.
How do I avoid false claims that other transport or services are unavailable in Jordan?
Check with transport staff or another independent person. Get more than one quote. Do not treat a seller's claim as proof that alternatives are unavailable.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Check your onward options independently before paying for another service.
Where in Jordan does this happen?
Across Jordan, including the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge crossing.
How common is this scam in Jordan?
Common. 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