Scam in JordanShopping
Overpriced antiques in Jordan
How it works
Visitors may be quoted inflated prices for antiques. An English-speaking seller does not guarantee good value.
Warning signs
- You are urged to buy before checking prices elsewhere.
- The price is much higher than independent quotes for similar items.
How to avoid it
- Compare prices at several shops.
- Decide your spending limit before bargaining.
- Walk away if you cannot judge the item's value.
If it happens to you
Keep the receipt and ask the seller about a return or refund.
- 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.
- Travel blogIs Jordan safe to visit? The answer may surprise you. — EscapingNYThe author warns that dealers sell modern dusty oil lamps and coins as antiques.Read on Travel blog
- Travel blogIs it Safe to Travel to Jordan | Carpe Diem OUR Way TravelThe family travel blog lists purported antiques among Jordan's tourist scams and cautions that an old or dusty appearance does not establish authenticity.Read on Travel blog
Questions
What is the overpriced antiques scam in Jordan?
Visitors may be quoted inflated prices for antiques. An English-speaking seller does not guarantee good value.
How can I spot it early?
You are urged to buy before checking prices elsewhere. The price is much higher than independent quotes for similar items.
How do I avoid overpriced antiques in Jordan?
Compare prices at several shops. Decide your spending limit before bargaining. Walk away if you cannot judge the item's value.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Keep the receipt and ask the seller about a return or refund.
Where in Jordan does this happen?
Antique dealers, particularly in western Amman. It has been reported in Amman.
How common is this scam in Jordan?
Occasional. 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.
Are there similar scams in Jordan?
Yes: the cousin or friend with a cheaper deal, touts selling archaeological finds.
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