Scam in SyriaTaxis
Taxi overcharging and unused meters in Syria
How it works
Drivers may bargain with foreign visitors and ask for very high fares instead of using the meter. Licensed taxis have meters. In Damascus, drivers often do not use them at night. Private airport cab services also cost substantially more, though a higher price alone does not mean fraud.
Warning signs
- The driver starts bargaining instead of switching on the meter.
- The meter stays off or is switched off during the trip.
- You are asked to get in before the fare is clear.
How to avoid it
- Choose a clearly marked, licensed taxi and ask for the meter before leaving.
- Watch that the meter stays on.
- If taking a Damascus taxi at night without a meter, agree on the full fare before getting in.
- Compare the fare with a taxi app such as Yallago.
If it happens to you
Ask calmly for an explanation of the fare. If you feel threatened, get to a public place and seek help. Record the vehicle details when safe.
- Get to a safe, staffed place. If someone threatens you, avoid arguing or fighting over money or belongings.
- Write down what happened, including the time, location, amount paid and any vehicle or business details. Save receipts and messages.
- If a card or phone is missing, contact the card issuer to freeze cards and secure affected accounts.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to local police. Ask for a written report or reference number if available.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing or you need help finding local assistance.
- Tell your insurer promptly and keep copies of reports, receipts and other evidence needed for a claim.
Questions
What is the taxi overcharging and unused meters scam in Syria?
Drivers may bargain with foreign visitors and ask for very high fares instead of using the meter. Licensed taxis have meters. In Damascus, drivers often do not use them at night. Private airport cab services also cost substantially more, though a higher price alone does not mean fraud.
How can I spot it early?
The driver starts bargaining instead of switching on the meter. The meter stays off or is switched off during the trip. You are asked to get in before the fare is clear.
How do I avoid taxi overcharging and unused meters in Syria?
Choose a clearly marked, licensed taxi and ask for the meter before leaving. Watch that the meter stays on. If taking a Damascus taxi at night without a meter, agree on the full fare before getting in. Compare the fare with a taxi app such as Yallago.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask calmly for an explanation of the fare. If you feel threatened, get to a public place and seek help. Record the vehicle details when safe.
Where in Syria does this happen?
Across Syria, including airport pickups and city journeys.
How common is this scam in Syria?
Common. Taxi overcharging is a common concern in Syria, especially when drivers bargain with foreign visitors instead of using the meter. Other reported problems include fake taxis at Damascus bus terminals, begging tricks, poor exchange rates and tourist shopping markups. Conflict and political tensions pose separate, serious risks; this scam guide does not establish that an area is safe to visit.
Are there similar scams in Syria?
Yes: fake taxis that lock away your bags.
Who can I report it to?
Local police: report theft, threats, assault or suspected fraud. Provide the location, time, description and any evidence. No local reporting number or specialist police unit is provided. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or verified contact number to freeze a missing card and report any unauthorised transactions. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a lost passport or serious incident. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service listed in your policy. Keep receipts and any police report. Taxi app or booking provider: if the journey was booked through a service, report the fare dispute through its official support channel and save the booking details.
Reviewed by @snuck