Scam in United Arab EmiratesTaxis
Taxi fare changes from dirhams to dollars in United Arab Emirates
How it works
A driver quotes a number before the journey. At the destination, they claim the price was in dollars rather than dirhams.
Warning signs
- The driver quotes a number without naming the currency.
- The driver avoids clearly confirming that the price is in dirhams.
How to avoid it
- Use a metered taxi.
- If accepting a fixed quote, confirm the full amount and the word "dirhams" before leaving.
- Do not start the journey while the currency is unclear.
If it happens to you
- Move to a safe place. Avoid an argument or confrontation.
- Stop further payments and contact. Do not pay anyone who promises to recover your money for a fee.
- If a card or account is affected, contact your bank or card issuer immediately. Ask about blocking access and disputing payments.
- Save receipts, messages, screenshots, payment records and any vehicle details. Write down what happened while you remember it.
- Report fraud or theft to the police. In Dubai, call 999 if you need police attention.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you need help replacing travel documents.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the taxi fare changes from dirhams to dollars scam in United Arab Emirates?
A driver quotes a number before the journey. At the destination, they claim the price was in dollars rather than dirhams.
How can I spot it early?
The driver quotes a number without naming the currency. The driver avoids clearly confirming that the price is in dirhams.
How do I avoid taxi fare changes from dirhams to dollars in United Arab Emirates?
Use a metered taxi. If accepting a fixed quote, confirm the full amount and the word "dirhams" before leaving. Do not start the journey while the currency is unclear.
Where in United Arab Emirates does this happen?
Taxi journeys with an agreed off-meter fare It has been reported in Dubai.
How common is this scam in United Arab Emirates?
Occasional. The United Arab Emirates has low crime overall, and the scams described here are mainly shopping pressure, taxi overcharging and phone fraud. Watch for missing change, extra VAT added to a quoted price, off-meter taxi fares and unexpected calls promising money or claiming legal trouble.
Are there similar scams in United Arab Emirates?
Yes: off-meter taxi overcharging, expensive unmarked hotel taxis.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report fraud or theft and provide any evidence you saved. In Dubai, call 999 if you need police attention. Bank or card issuer: use its official app or the contact number on your card to report unauthorised payments, block a card or ask about a dispute. Taxi booking service: if you booked through an app, report the fare problem through that booking and keep the trip record. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a stolen passport or replacement travel documents.
What number do I call in an emergency in United Arab Emirates?
Police attention in Dubai: 999.
Reviewed by @snuck