Scam in UzbekistanBuses and trains
Tourist fare markup by ticket agents in Uzbekistan
How it works
Agents may charge a higher fare because you look like a tourist.
Warning signs
- The quoted fare is higher than the price a local or guide gives you.
- Different passengers receive different quotes for the same journey.
How to avoid it
- Ask a local or guide what the fare should be.
- Confirm the price before paying.
- Compare quotes when possible.
If it happens to you
Ask the agent to explain the difference and request the correct fare before paying.
- 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/Uzbekistan2026Frustrating experience while booking tickets through Uzbekistan railways site and appTravellers struggling with official railway booking reported third-party agencies charging almost double the direct ticket price.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/Uzbekistan2023Is There a Black Market for Railway Tickets?A traveller described a taxi driver offering access to a railway ticket through a supposed company contact for 400,000 som and asked about reseller markups.Read on Reddit
Questions
What is the tourist fare markup by ticket agents scam in Uzbekistan?
Agents may charge a higher fare because you look like a tourist.
How can I spot it early?
The quoted fare is higher than the price a local or guide gives you. Different passengers receive different quotes for the same journey.
How do I avoid tourist fare markup by ticket agents in Uzbekistan?
Ask a local or guide what the fare should be. Confirm the price before paying. Compare quotes when possible.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask the agent to explain the difference and request the correct fare before paying.
Where in Uzbekistan does this happen?
Bus and shared-taxi stations in Urgench on the route to Khiva It has been reported in Urgench.
How common is this scam in Uzbekistan?
Occasional. 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: stranger's bill-splitting trick, false claim that the airport transfer bus is not running.
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