Scam in UzbekistanShopping
Souvenir sales pressure and high prices in Uzbekistan
How it works
Vendors actively call for tourists' attention. Souvenirs can cost more than in Samarkand or Bukhara, though bargaining can bring prices down. This is sales pressure and possible overpricing, rather than proof of fraud.
Warning signs
- Vendors call out to draw you into a sale.
- The opening price is higher than comparable items elsewhere.
How to avoid it
- Compare prices before buying.
- Bargain and set a spending limit.
- Decline and keep walking if you are not interested.
If it happens to you
End the conversation if you feel pressured. For a completed purchase, keep the receipt and ask about returns.
- 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.
- Redditr/Uzbekistan2021Traveling to Uzbekistan: As an American.A commenter specifically warned that souvenir shops charge tourists inflated prices.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/Uzbekistan2026Uzbekistan: how do you cope with being priced by how you look? Help me make peace with itTravellers discussed inflated bazaar and souvenir prices and questioned claims that widely available goods came from sellers' own workshops.Read on Reddit
Questions
What is the souvenir sales pressure and high prices scam in Uzbekistan?
Vendors actively call for tourists' attention. Souvenirs can cost more than in Samarkand or Bukhara, though bargaining can bring prices down. This is sales pressure and possible overpricing, rather than proof of fraud.
How can I spot it early?
Vendors call out to draw you into a sale. The opening price is higher than comparable items elsewhere.
How do I avoid souvenir sales pressure and high prices in Uzbekistan?
Compare prices before buying. Bargain and set a spending limit. Decline and keep walking if you are not interested.
What should I do if it happens to me?
End the conversation if you feel pressured. For a completed purchase, keep the receipt and ask about returns.
Where in Uzbekistan does this happen?
Souvenir stalls and shops in Khiva It has been reported in Khiva.
How common is this scam in Uzbekistan?
Common. 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: poor-value carpet sales.
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