Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Kuwait City, Al ‘Āşimah, Kuwait

1. Souk Al-Mubarakiya Scam

Avoid overpriced goods or counterfeit items in the historic market by bargaining and checking quality.

Bargain Wisely: Know the market price of goods before bargaining.
Inspect Quality: Check products for poor quality or hidden flaws before purchasing.
Stick to Reputable Shops: Shop at recognized stores with good customer reviews.

Avoid overpaying for gold or receiving fake jewelry by checking purity and certification.

Check Purity: Ensure the gold is stamped with purity standards.
Request Certification: Ask for a certificate of authenticity and appraisal.
Compare Prices: Check gold prices at multiple shops before making a purchase.

Avoid paying inflated fares by agreeing on the price upfront and using meters when available.

Agree on Price Beforehand: Negotiate a fare before getting into the taxi.
Use Meters When Available: Insist on using the meter when it is functional.
Verify Taxi Legitimacy: Ensure the taxi has a valid license and number plate.

Avoid sim cards with hidden charges or poor service by purchasing from authorized dealers.

Purchase from Authorized Dealers: Buy sim cards from official outlets or mobile operator stores.
Check for Hidden Charges: Ask about any additional fees or charges before purchasing.
Test Service Quality: Make a call to verify the service quality before finalizing the purchase.

Avoid foodborne illnesses or poor quality meals by choosing clean and hygienic food vendors.

Check for Cleanliness: Look for vendors with a clean, well-maintained workspace.
Observe Food Preparation: Watch how food is prepared and cooked before consuming.
Ask for Recommendations: Seek advice from locals or fellow travelers about reputable street food vendors.

Avoid accepting counterfeit bills by verifying the authenticity of currency.

Check Security Features: Feel the bill, check for watermarks, and inspect the security thread.
Examine Serial Numbers: Look for consecutive serial numbers or irregularities in the sequence.
Count Money Carefully: Double-check your change to ensure you receive the correct amount.

Avoid exchanging money at unofficial exchange offices or ATMs with hidden fees.

Choose Official Exchange Offices: Exchange currency at banks, hotels, or authorized exchange offices.
Check Rates and Fees: Compare exchange rates between different providers before choosing one.
Protect Your PIN: Cover the ATM keypad while entering your PIN to prevent skimming.

Avoid being duped by friendly locals who offer assistance and then request money.

Be Skeptical of Overly Friendly Strangers: Recognize that overly helpful individuals may have ulterior motives.
Limit Sharing Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive information with strangers or on social media.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your gut and end the interaction.

Avoid overpaying for carpets by negotiating prices and checking quality.

Bargain Wisely: Know the market price of carpets before bargaining.
Inspect Quality: Check carpets for poor quality or hidden flaws before purchasing.
Stick to Reputable Shops: Shop at recognized stores with good customer reviews.

Avoid being sold contaminated water by purchasing from reputable sources.

Buy Bottled Water: Purchase bottled water instead of using local taps.
Check for Government Seal: Ensure the bottled water is from a government-approved desalination plant.
Avoid Street Vendors: Avoid purchasing water from unofficial street vendors.

Avoid hidden charges or damaged vehicles by inspecting the car thoroughly before renting.

Inspect Rental Car Thoroughly: Check for damages, missing parts, or pre-existing issues.
Compare Rates: Compare prices between different rental companies before choosing one.
Read the Contract Carefully: Understand the terms and conditions of the contract to avoid hidden charges.

Avoid overpriced or fake shore excursions by booking through authorized tour operators.

Book Through Authorized Tour Operators: Book tours offered by the cruise line or reputable local providers.
Compare Prices: Research and compare prices for shore excursions before deciding.
Read Reviews: Check online reviews of tour operators to ensure a positive experience.

Avoid accidents or overpriced dune buggy rides by choosing licensed operators and negotiating prices.

Choose Licensed Operators: Book tours with licensed operators who follow safety regulations.
Negotiate Prices: Bargain for a fair price before embarking on the tour.
Check Safety Gear: Ensure that helmets and seatbelts are provided and in good condition.

Avoid poor treatment of camels or overpriced rides by choosing reputable providers and negotiating prices.

Choose Reputable Providers: Book tours with operators who treat their animals humanely.
Negotiate Prices: Bargain for a fair price before embarking on the ride.
Check Animal Health and Welfare: Ensure that camels are well-fed, healthy, and not overworked.

Avoid overpriced drinks or fake alcohol by choosing reputable venues and being cautious.

Choose Reputable Venues: Research bars, clubs, and restaurants with good reviews.
Check for Alcohol Quality: Ensure that drinks are made with quality ingredients.
Stay Aware of Surroundings: Remain vigilant and aware of your belongings to prevent theft.