Scam in SyriaShopping
Tourist markups on Aleppo soap in Syria
How it works
Soap in the souq's tourist shops can cost more and offer less choice than shops on the two roads south of the Clock Tower. Soap prices also vary with the proportion of olive and laurel oil, so different products may fairly have different prices.
Warning signs
- The price is much higher than nearby shops for comparable soap.
- You cannot establish the price per kilo or compare the oil content.
How to avoid it
- Compare shops before buying.
- Check the price per kilo and the proportion of olive and laurel oil.
- Compare with shops on the two roads south of the Clock Tower.
- Bargain in the souq and walk away if the price does not suit you.
If it happens to you
If you notice before paying, decline the purchase. After paying, ask calmly about a return or refund; it may not be available.
- 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 tourist markups on Aleppo soap scam in Syria?
Soap in the souq's tourist shops can cost more and offer less choice than shops on the two roads south of the Clock Tower. Soap prices also vary with the proportion of olive and laurel oil, so different products may fairly have different prices.
How can I spot it early?
The price is much higher than nearby shops for comparable soap. You cannot establish the price per kilo or compare the oil content.
How do I avoid tourist markups on Aleppo soap in Syria?
Compare shops before buying. Check the price per kilo and the proportion of olive and laurel oil. Compare with shops on the two roads south of the Clock Tower. Bargain in the souq and walk away if the price does not suit you.
What should I do if it happens to me?
If you notice before paying, decline the purchase. After paying, ask calmly about a return or refund; it may not be available.
Where in Syria does this happen?
Tourist shops in Aleppo's souq. It has been reported in Aleppo.
How common is this scam in Syria?
Occasional. 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.
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