Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Sanaa, Yemen

1. Al-Qahten Mosque Scam

Be wary of guides offering to show secret rooms in Al-Qahten Mosque for a fee.

Unauthorized Guides: Guides may not have proper credentials and can exploit tourists.
Secret Rooms: There are no secret rooms in Al-Qahten Mosque, and any offer to show them is a scam.
Location-based Scams: Scams often occur in popular tourist spots like Al-Qahten Mosque.

Avoid gold sellers offering inflated prices or low-quality gold jewelry in Gold Souk.

Inflated Prices: Gold prices are often inflated in an attempt to overcharge tourists.
Low-Quality Goods: Some sellers offer low-quality gold jewelry at full price.
Popular Market Scams: Gold Souk is a popular tourist destination, making it an attractive spot for scams.

Be cautious when exchanging money at unofficial change exchangers in the city.

Unofficial Exchange Offices: These offices may provide less currency than promised, or counterfeit bills.
Risk of Counterfeit Bills: Counterfeit bills can be difficult to identify, potentially causing further loss.
Security Risk: Handing over large amounts of money increases the risk of theft or mugging.

Avoid taxis that refuse to use the meter, or offer an overpriced fixed rate.

Meter Refusal: Some taxi drivers may refuse to use the meter and demand a higher price.
Overpriced Fixed Rates: Fixed rates offered by some taxis can be much higher than the actual cost.
Unlicensed Taxis: Unlicensed taxis may not have working meters, and can charge whatever they want.

Avoid individuals offering guided tours without proper credentials.

Lack of Credentials: Unlicensed guides may not have the necessary knowledge to provide a quality tour.
Hidden Costs: These guides may charge extra for services or attractions along the way.
Security Risk: Traveling with an unlicensed guide can increase the risk of mugging or theft.

Beware of overpriced souvenirs or sellers who pressure you to buy.

Overpriced Souvenirs: Souvenirs are often priced higher for tourists than locals.
Aggressive Sellers: Some sellers may be pushy or aggressive in an attempt to make a sale.
Bargaining: Always bargain for souvenirs, as prices can often be negotiated.

Be cautious when purchasing historical artifacts, as many are fake or stolen.

Stolen Artifacts: Purchasing stolen artifacts supports illegal activities.
Fake Artifacts: Many so-called historical artifacts are actually fakes or reproductions.
Legal Consequences: Possession of stolen artifacts can lead to legal trouble, even when leaving the country.

Beware of individuals impersonating police officers seeking bribes or asking for money.

Impersonation: These individuals may not be actual police officers.
Bribery Scam: They may ask for bribes under the guise of a fine or ticket.
Danger and Intimidation: These scams can create fear and intimidation, making victims more vulnerable.

Be cautious when exchanging currency in unofficial exchange offices or on the street.

Unofficial Exchange Offices: These offices may provide less currency than promised, or counterfeit bills.
Counterfeit Bills: Counterfeit bills can be difficult to identify, potentially causing further loss.
Security Risk: Handing over large amounts of money increases the risk of theft or mugging.

Avoid consuming street food from unlicensed vendors, as it may be unsafe or overpriced.

Unsafe Food: Street food prepared in unsanitary conditions can cause illness.
Overpricing: Food is often overpriced for tourists.
Hidden Costs: Some vendors may add extra costs or charges without informing the customer.

Be wary of individuals offering to help with directions on Talbin Street, as they may ask for money afterwards.

Free Help Scam: Individuals may offer help but then demand payment for their services.
Location-based Scams: Talbin Street is a popular tourist destination, making it an attractive spot for scams.
Avoiding Payments: It's best to decline help from strangers and use a map or ask reliable sources instead.

Avoid buying sim cards from unofficial vendors, as they may not function properly.

Non-functional Sim Cards: Unofficial sim cards can malfunction or have limited connectivity.
Security Risk: Handing over personal information increases the risk of identity theft.
Legal Consequences: Possession and use of unofficial sim cards can lead to legal trouble.

Avoid booking rooms in guest houses that look abandoned or have no signage.

Lack of Legitimacy: These establishments may not be registered and may lack basic facilities.
Unsafe Conditions: Accommodations in such places can be unsafe and unsanitary.
Security Risk: Staying in unregistered accommodations increases the risk of theft or mugging.

Avoid using ATMs that appear suspicious, have no official bank logo, or are located in isolated areas.

Skimming Devices: ATMs with skimming devices can steal your card and pin information.
Fake ATM Scam: Fake ATMs may not dispense cash or may charge hidden fees.
Security Risk: Using an isolated ATM increases the risk of mugging or theft.

Be cautious when donating to street charities, as they may not use the funds for their intended purpose.

Misuse of Funds: The collected funds may not be used for the intended purpose or may be mismanaged.
Fraudulent Collectors: Some collectors may not be associated with the charity at all and keep the donations for themselves.
Avoiding Unverified Charities: Always verify the legitimacy of a charity before making a donation.