Skip to content
Some scams

Western Asia

Tourist scams in Syria

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.
  1. 1 TaxisCommonTaxi overcharging and unused metersDrivers 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.Across Syria, including airport pickups and city journeys. 3Read
  2. 2 On the streetOccasionalPersistent begging and demands for moneySome people begging may follow visitors and keep demanding money until they pay. There are also reports of tourists being attacked for money or food. Begging is common in some places, but not every person asking for help is running a scam.Outside tourist attractions, mosques and churches in some parts of Syria.Read
  3. 3 On the streetOccasionalFake begging appealsSome people imitate beggars to obtain money and use further tricks to persuade visitors to give more. The exact stories and methods are not described.Damascus 1Read
  4. 4 TaxisOccasionalFake taxis that lock away your bagsCars posing as taxis wait near bus terminals and may charge several times the usual fare. Often, one person distracts you while the driver puts your bags in the boot and locks it. This gives them control of your luggage before you have agreed to the ride.DamascusRead
  5. 5 Changing moneyOccasionalPoor currency exchange ratesA visitor who does not know the current exchange rate can receive a poor deal when changing cash. Some ordinary shops in the Old City also exchange money, but this is described as illegal.Damascus 2Read
  6. 6 ShoppingOccasionalTourist markups on Aleppo soapSoap 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.AleppoRead

Where to stay alert

  • Damascus International AirportTaxi fares depend on bargaining unless the meter is used. Private cab services can cost substantially more.
  • Bus terminals, DamascusFake taxis may use a two-person distraction while loading and locking away a visitor's bags.
  • Old City, DamascusSome shops offer informal currency exchange. Visitors need to check rates carefully.
  • Large souks, DamascusNearby change houses are places where visitors should check the rate before exchanging money.
  • Aleppo SouqTourist soap shops can have higher prices and less choice than shops south of the Clock Tower.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Use clearly marked, licensed taxis. In Aleppo, check that the taxi is licensed before boarding.
  • In Damascus, look for the Governorate logo and a number on the roof sign.
  • Ask for the meter and watch that it stays on. Agree on a full fare first if it will not be used.
  • Keep control of your bags until you have accepted the ride.

Money

  • Bring enough cash for your trip. US dollars are the easiest foreign currency to exchange; euros can also be exchanged.
  • Check the current exchange rate and agree on the final amount before handing over cash.
  • Old and new Syrian pounds circulate together. One new pound equals 100 old pounds, so confirm which units a price uses.
  • Count your money discreetly and keep a reserve separate from your daily spending cash.

Cards and ATMs

  • Do not depend on ATMs or cards as your only payment method. Their availability and reliability are limited.
  • Use a machine in a secure, staffed location when possible and cover your PIN.
  • Keep card issuer contact details available so you can freeze a missing card quickly.

Your belongings

  • Keep money secure in front pockets and avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
  • Keep bags within sight while arranging transport.
  • If someone pressures or follows you, move towards a busy, staffed place.

Where you stay

  • Choose accommodation independently instead of relying on taxi driver recommendations.
  • Confirm the address and price directly with the property before travelling there.

Tours and guides

  • Travelling with a guide at all times is strongly recommended to make difficult interactions less stressful.
  • Keep your accommodation details and a trusted contact available if you need help during an outing.

What travellers say about Syria

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

Questions

How worried should I be about scams in Syria?

Taxi overcharging is a common concern. Other reported problems include fake taxis, begging tricks, poor exchange rates and tourist shop markups. Conflict and political tensions are separate, serious risks.

How can I avoid being overcharged by a taxi?

Use a licensed taxi, ask for the meter before leaving and watch that it stays on. If a Damascus driver will not use it at night, agree on the full fare before getting in.

What is the fake taxi trick at Damascus bus terminals?

One person may distract you while another puts your bags in a car's boot and locks it. The car may then charge several times the normal fare. Move away from the terminal and keep hold of your luggage while choosing a taxi.

What should I do if someone begging follows me?

Keep your refusal brief and move towards a busy, staffed place. Avoid taking out your wallet under pressure. Seek help if the person becomes threatening.

How do I avoid losing money when exchanging cash?

Check the current rate, agree on the amount after fees and count the notes before leaving. Confirm whether amounts use old or new Syrian pounds. Avoid informal exchanges in ordinary shops.

Can I rely on cards and ATMs?

Cash remains the most reliable payment method. ATMs and card payments can be unreliable, so bring enough cash for your trip and keep it securely.

Where should I compare soap prices in Aleppo?

Compare the souq with shops on the two roads south of the Clock Tower. Check the price per kilo and the proportions of olive and laurel oil before comparing prices.

Is bargaining expected, and should I check the goods?

Bargaining is expected in the souks. Handicraft quality varies. For lacquered or inlaid boxes, feel whether the surface is smooth and check the hinges before paying.

Should I accept a taxi driver's hotel recommendation?

Choose accommodation independently and confirm details directly with the property. Taxi driver recommendations for accommodation, doctors and dentists are specifically discouraged for safety.

Who should I contact after a scam or theft?

Report theft, threats or fraud to local police. Contact your card issuer for missing cards or unauthorised payments, your embassy for passport help, and your insurer for claims.

Reviewed by