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Some scams

Western Asia

Tourist scams in Palestine

Visitors should watch for commission-based referrals, inflated prices and false promises of cheaper deals. These are recurring tourist traps, but most people who approach visitors are friendly and well-intentioned.
  1. 1 Tours and guidesCommonFalse “my cousin can get it cheaper” offersSomeone claims a cousin or friend has what you need and can offer a cheaper price. The claimed relationship may be false, and the deal often costs more. They may also pressure you to believe there is only one option.When arranging purchases, services or tours through an intermediary.Read
  2. 2 Other tricksCommonTaxi or guide referrals with hidden commissionsA driver or guide charges for their service and also earns commission from the business they take you to. You may be taken to a restaurant with inflated prices. A restaurant or hotel may quote a higher price while the driver or guide stands beside you.Restaurants and hotels recommended by taxi drivers or self-proclaimed guides.Read

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Ask the fare before taking a taxi.
  • Give the driver your chosen destination.
  • Check restaurant and hotel recommendations independently.

Where you stay

  • Choose your hotel independently of drivers and touts.
  • Ask for the full room price before agreeing.
  • Keep a copy of your passport hidden in your hotel room.

Tours and guides

  • Get several independent quotes before booking.
  • Ask exactly what the price includes.
  • Do not accept claims that only one provider is available.
  • A local guide or translator can help, but check their recommendations independently.

Money

  • Check the denomination of each banknote when paying and receiving change. The newer ₪50 note has colours similar to the older ₪20 note.
  • Confirm the currency before agreeing to a price. US dollars are accepted at many tourist shops.
  • Count your change before leaving.

Your belongings

  • Keep your passport secure and accessible, as security services may ask for it.
  • Keep your phone and wallet secure, especially at night.
  • Store passport copies separately from the original.

Police and officials

  • Carry your passport because both Israeli and Palestinian security services may request ID.
  • Keep your travel documents in order for checkpoints.
  • Avoid filming military activity or sensitive security situations. Phones and cameras may be inspected at checkpoints.

What travellers say about Palestine

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

Questions

Are tourist scams common in the Palestinian territories?

Commission-based referrals and false promises of cheaper deals are recurring traps. There is no precise rate given. Most approaches to visitors are friendly and well-intentioned.

Can I trust a taxi driver's restaurant recommendation?

Check it independently. Drivers may earn commission, and the restaurant may charge inflated prices. Choose where to eat yourself and ask for prices without the driver beside you.

What should I do if someone says their cousin has a cheaper deal?

Get several independent quotes. The claimed relationship may be false, and the price may be higher. Do not let someone convince you that there is only one option.

How can I avoid an inflated hotel price?

Choose the hotel yourself. Ask for the full price without a driver or guide standing beside you, and confirm it before accepting the room.

Should I hire a local guide?

A local guide or translator can help you get around and avoid trouble. Compare quotes, agree on the service and price, and check their business recommendations independently.

What should I check when paying with cash?

Confirm the currency and check each note's denomination. The newer ₪50 note has colours similar to the older ₪20 note. Count your change before leaving.

Does an ID request mean someone is a fake official?

An ID request alone does not mean it is a scam. Both Israeli and Palestinian security services may ask for ID, so carry your passport.

Are people calling out to tourists usually touts?

No. People often call out to visitors, and this is usually friendly. Be cautious at night and take time to check any offer involving money.

What should I do after a theft or fraudulent charge?

Get somewhere safe, save the evidence and report theft or fraud to the police. Block a missing or compromised card immediately. Contact your insurer and, for a stolen passport, your embassy or consulate.

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