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Few scams

Western Asia

Tourist scams in Kuwait

Kuwait has low crime levels and is generally safe for visitors. The main scam risk described here is taxi overcharging, including inflated starting prices and demands for more money on arrival. Check exchange rates and be alert to old Kuwaiti banknotes offered outside the country.
  1. 1 TaxisVery commonInflated taxi fares and unused metersThe meter is covered, missing, described as broken or simply ignored. The driver asks for a high negotiated fare. Inexperienced visitors can pay two to five times the standard rate. Hotel taxis also charge higher prices, so a higher quote alone does not prove a scam.Street taxis and hotel taxi ranks 3Read
  2. 2 TaxisCommonExtra taxi charges on arrivalAfter agreeing on a fare, the driver complains about traffic or unclear directions. The driver then demands more money at the destination. Your bags may still be inside when the dispute starts.Kuwait City 2Read
  3. 3 TaxisCommonAirport taxi demands above the printed fareAirport taxis display fixed fares inside the vehicle. Some drivers demand more than the printed fare.Kuwait City 1Read
  4. 4 TaxisOccasionalShared-taxi overchargingA driver asks for more than the usual shared fare. These rides may use unofficial taxis or private cars. Waiting for the car to fill can take an hour; the wait itself is not evidence of a scam.Bus stations offering shared rides to remote destinations such as AbdalyRead
  5. 5 Changing moneyOccasionalObsolete Kuwaiti banknotes sold as valid moneyAn unscrupulous dealer passes off Kuwaiti notes issued before 1994 as spendable currency. These notes are no longer legal tender.Dealers outside Kuwait; these notes are unlikely to be seen inside KuwaitRead
  6. 6 Changing moneyOccasionalPoor-value currency exchangeExchange rates vary between offices and currencies. A poor rate can leave you with much less money than another office would offer. A clearly displayed poor rate is not necessarily fraud.Exchange offices in urban areas 3Read
  7. 7 ShoppingOccasionalShop refuses purchase remediesIn rare cases, a shop may refuse the purchase remedies described for Kuwait: exchanges for credit-card purchases, and returns or exchanges for other purchases, within a fortnight.Retail shops 2Read

Where to stay alert

  • Kuwait International Airport, Kuwait CitySome airport taxi drivers demand more than the fixed fare printed inside the vehicle.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Agree on the full fare and exact destination before boarding.
  • Check the printed fare in airport taxis.
  • Use Careem or a reputable company booked by phone.
  • Collect your bags and leave the taxi before paying.
  • Compare prices when using a hotel taxi rank, where fares are higher.

Money

  • Compare exchange rates and confirm the final amount before handing over cash.
  • Check unfamiliar banknotes against Central Bank of Kuwait pictures.
  • Count your money and keep the exchange receipt.
  • Keep shop receipts and proof of payment in case you need a return or exchange.

Cards and ATMs

  • Cover your PIN when using an ATM or payment terminal.
  • Keep your card in sight during payment.
  • Turn on transaction alerts and check unfamiliar charges promptly.

Your belongings

  • Keep your phone, wallet and travel documents secure.
  • Check that you have every bag before a taxi leaves.
  • Keep a separate copy of important documents.
  • Avoid confronting someone if doing so could put you in danger.

What travellers say about Kuwait

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Is Kuwait a high-risk destination for tourist scams?

Crime levels are low, and Kuwait is generally safe for visitors. Taxi overcharging is the main scam risk described here.

Can I rely on a taxi meter?

Meters are widely ignored or unavailable. Agree on the total fare before boarding.

How do I avoid being overcharged at the airport?

Airport taxis display fixed fares inside. Read the fare and confirm the charge for your destination before leaving.

What if my driver demands more money on arrival?

Collect your bags and leave the taxi before paying. Calmly refer to the agreed fare and avoid an argument. Seek help if you feel threatened.

Are hotel taxis charging more always a scam?

No. Hotel taxis normally charge higher fares. Confirm the price in advance and compare another option if it seems too expensive.

What should a shared taxi to a remote destination cost?

The stated fare for a shared ride with three or four other passengers, including routes such as Abdaly, is KD 2–3. Confirm your individual fare before boarding.

Could I be given Kuwaiti banknotes I cannot spend?

Yes. Dealers outside Kuwait have passed off notes issued before 1994, which are no longer legal tender. This is unlikely inside Kuwait. Compare unfamiliar notes with Central Bank of Kuwait pictures.

How can I avoid a bad currency exchange deal?

Compare rates at different offices and ask for the exact amount you will receive. Count the money and check your receipt before leaving.

Who can help if a shop refuses a return or exchange?

Keep your receipt and raise the problem promptly with the shop. If you believe it is refusing a required remedy, call the Consumer Protection Department on 135.

What should I do if my wallet or passport is stolen?

Get somewhere safe, block missing cards and report the theft to the police. Contact your embassy if your passport is missing. Call 112 if you face immediate danger.

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