Scam in KuwaitShopping
Shop refuses purchase remedies in Kuwait
How it works
In rare cases, a shop may refuse the purchase remedies described for Kuwait: exchanges for credit-card purchases, and returns or exchanges for other purchases, within a fortnight.
Warning signs
- The shop refuses to explain its return or exchange policy.
- Staff reject your request within the stated period without a clear explanation.
How to avoid it
- Ask about returns and exchanges before buying.
- Keep the receipt and proof of payment.
- Raise any problem promptly.
If it happens to you
Ask the shop to resolve the issue. If you believe it is refusing the required remedy, call the Consumer Protection Department on 135.
- 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.
- Government advice2022Warning on the Consumer's Right to Exchange and Return GoodsKuwait's Ministry of Commerce warns shops to comply with applicable return and exchange rights and urges consumers to complain about violations.Read on Government advice
- Redditr/Kuwait2026Can a watch boutique refuse a refund?A buyer reports that a boutique refused a refund for a supposedly new watch found to have numerous scratches and had no replacement available.Read on Reddit
Questions
What is the shop refuses purchase remedies scam in Kuwait?
In rare cases, a shop may refuse the purchase remedies described for Kuwait: exchanges for credit-card purchases, and returns or exchanges for other purchases, within a fortnight.
How can I spot it early?
The shop refuses to explain its return or exchange policy. Staff reject your request within the stated period without a clear explanation.
How do I avoid shop refuses purchase remedies in Kuwait?
Ask about returns and exchanges before buying. Keep the receipt and proof of payment. Raise any problem promptly.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask the shop to resolve the issue. If you believe it is refusing the required remedy, call the Consumer Protection Department on 135.
Where in Kuwait does this happen?
Retail shops
How common is this scam in Kuwait?
Occasional. 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.
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