Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in An Najaf, An Najaf, Iraq

All Topics about An Najaf All Cities in Iraq

1. Grand 'Askariyah Shrine Scam

Watch out for unofficial tour guides at the Grand 'Askariyah Shrine who may overcharge or lead you to shops where they receive commissions.

Knowledgeable Guides: Always opt for official guides or do self-guided tours
Avoid Unofficial Shops: Stay away from shops recommended by unverified tour guides
Bargain Wisely: Always negotiate prices before agreeing to any services or purchases

Avoid fixed-rate taxis at An Najaf International Airport. They often charge inflated prices.

Use Prepaid Taxis: Use prepaid taxis available at the airport booths
Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate prices before getting into any taxi
Use Trusted Services: Research and use trusted local taxi services if needed

Be cautious with Iraqi Dinars. Counterfeit notes are common in An Najaf.

Inspect Cash Thoroughly: Thoroughly check the authenticity of any cash received
Use Reputable Money Exchange: Exchange money at reputable banks or exchange bureaus
Check for Security Features: Familiarize yourself with the security features of Iraqi Dinars

Some vendors in An Najaf markets may overcharge foreign tourists.

Watch your belongings in crowded areas like Imam Ali's Mosque and Souks.

Secure Your Belongings: Keep your belongings secure at all times, especially in crowded places
Use Hidden Storage: Use hidden storage for valuables when possible
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings in crowded areas

Some car rental agencies in An Najaf may provide damaged vehicles or ask for excess payments.

Rent from Reputable Companies: Rent cars only from well-known, reputable car rental companies
Inspect Vehicles Thoroughly: Thoroughly inspect the vehicle before accepting it and report any damage
Check Contract Terms: Read and understand contract terms carefully, especially regarding deposits and penalties

Some accommodation providers may book you at overpriced, lower-quality hotels or homes.

Book through Reputable Channels: Book accommodations only through trusted online booking platforms or reputable local agencies
Check Reviews and Photos: Read reviews and check photos of the accommodation before booking
Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate prices, especially for last-minute bookings

Some car wash shops in An Najaf may intentionally damage vehicles and charge for unnecessary repairs.

Choose Trusted Shops: Ask locals for recommendations or research trusted car wash shops online
Check the Vehicle Before and After Washing: Inspect your vehicle before and after washing to ensure no unnecessary damage
Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate prices before agreeing to any services or repairs

Some ATMs in An Najaf may be tampered with and skim your card information.

Use Bank ATMs: Use ATMs located inside banks or reputable businesses
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent anyone from seeing it
Check ATM for Tampering: Check the ATM for any signs of tampering before using it

Some internet cafes in An Najaf may overcharge for slow or unreliable connections.

Research Prices: Research average prices for internet access before visiting cafes
Check Speeds and Reliability: Test the speed and reliability of the internet connection before making a purchase
Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate prices, especially for longer usage periods

Some 'friendly locals' may call to offer help or engage in friendly conversation, but later ask for money.

Avoid Giving Personal Information: Never share personal information with strangers
Ignore Unverified Requests for Money: Ignore any requests for money from unverified individuals
Be Wary of 'Too Good to Be True' Offers: Be skeptical of offers that seem too good to be true, especially from strangers

Some street food vendors in An Najaf may use expired or contaminated ingredients.

Choose Busy Stalls: Choose busy, well-attended food stalls with a lot of local customers
Avoid Uncooked Foods: Avoid eating any foods that are not fully cooked or ready to eat
Wash Hands Regularly: Always wash your hands before eating and after touching money

Some souvenir shops in An Najaf may use unfair exchange rates to overcharge tourists.

Research Fair Prices: Research fair prices for souvenirs before visiting shops
Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate prices, especially for larger or more valuable items
Pay Attention to Exchange Rates: Be aware of the exchange rate between Iraqi Dinars and your currency before making any purchases

Some taxi drivers or transportation providers in An Najaf may charge tourists inflated prices.

Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate prices before getting into any taxi or agreeing to any transportation services
Use Prepaid Taxis: Use prepaid taxis available at the airport booths or reputable local taxi companies
Research Average Prices: Research average prices for transportation services before traveling to An Najaf

Some tour operators in An Najaf may offer poor quality tours or exaggerate attractions to overcharge tourists.

Research Tour Companies: Research and choose reputable tour companies with positive reviews
Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate prices, especially for longer tours or customized itineraries
Check Tour Itinerary: Check the tour itinerary before booking to ensure you are getting what is promised