Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

1. Sim Card Scam

Unscrupulous vendors offer cheap SIM cards with inflated internet packages. Avoid unauthorized shops; stick to official outlets.

Official Outlets: Only buy from authorized telecom company stores
Internet Packages: Check fairness and validity of internet packages offered
Payment Method: Use secure payment methods like credit cards or official payment systems

Some taxi drivers overcharge tourists or refuse to use the meter. Use only licensed taxis from official ranks.

Licensed Taxis: Only take taxis clearly marked as 'official' or 'licensed'
Meter Use: Insist the driver uses the meter and complains if it isn't used
Payment Method: Pay with credit card when possible to keep a record of the transaction

Dealers may sell fake gold or overprice items. Buy from reputable stores or check purity certificates.

Skimming devices can be installed on ATMs to steal card information. Use only banks' official ATMs and be aware of your surroundings.

Official ATMs: Use ATMs located inside banks or reputable shopping centers
Cover Over Card Slot: Always cover the ATM keypad and card slot while entering your PIN and inserting your card
Monitor Accounts Regularly: Regularly check account statements for any unauthorized transactions

Cruise ship passengers may encounter overpriced or fraudulent shore excursions. Book excursions only through the ship's tour desk.

Tour Desk: Book tours offered exclusively by the cruise ship
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other passengers to ensure fairness
Official Receipts: Insist on receiving a receipt for all tours and excursions

Sellers may offer counterfeit branded goods. Buy only from authorized retailers or official outlets.

Authorized Retailers: Research and buy from well-known, established stores
Official Outlets: Only purchase goods in authorized areas like malls or designated stores
Authenticity Certificates: Ask for and verify authenticity certificates for high-value items

Tourist areas may have souvenir shops with overpriced or fake items. Shop around for reasonable prices.

Shop Around: Compare prices at various shops before making a purchase
Bargaining: Negotiate the price of items to get a fair deal
Reputation: Check reviews and ask for recommendations from locals or fellow travelers

Rental cars may have undisclosed damages, or overpriced rentals. Choose a reputable company and inspect the vehicle thoroughly.

Reputable Company: Research and book rental cars from well-known companies
Inspection of Vehicle: Thoroughly inspect the vehicle before driving away and document any damages
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other rental companies to ensure fairness

Unlicensed operators may offer dune buggy rides at a cheaper price. Choose only licensed operators for safety.

Licensed Operators: Book dune buggy tours with companies that are registered and licensed
Equipment Check: Inspect the vehicle for safety equipment like helmets and seat belts
Reviews: Check reviews of the tour operator to ensure a positive experience

Some street food vendors may use low-quality ingredients or overprice their dishes. Stick to popular and well-reviewed spots.

Popular Spots: Find recommendations from locals or research popular street food spots
Reviews: Check reviews of the street food vendor to ensure a positive experience
Hygiene Standards: Observe cleanliness and hygiene standards at the vendor's stall

Unauthorized guides may offer their services at tourist attractions. Use only licensed guides provided by the attraction.

Licensed Guides: Ask for a guide's license and credentials before hiring
Attraction Information Center: Book guides through the attraction's official information center
Reviews: Check reviews of the guide to ensure a positive experience

Rooms may have hidden charges or poor conditions. Book only from reputable hotels and check the room thoroughly.

Reputable Hotels: Research and book rooms at well-known, established hotels
Room Inspection: Thoroughly inspect the room before accepting it
Booking Terms: Understand the hotel's booking terms and conditions before finalizing the reservation

Some spas may use low-quality ingredients or overcharge for services. Research and choose reputable spas.

Reputable Spas: Research and book treatments at well-known, established spas
Treatment Descriptions: Ask for detailed descriptions of the treatment before booking
Reviews: Check reviews of the spa to ensure a positive experience

Fraudulent timeshare salespersons may pressure tourists into purchasing timeshares. Politely decline their offers or research beforehand.

Research: Understand the concept of timeshares and their pros and cons
Decline Polite: Politely decline offers from salespersons on the street
Legal Assistance: Consult a local attorney if you have any concerns or have unknowingly signed up for a timeshare

Fraudsters may pose as charity collectors. Verify the authenticity of charities before donating.

Verification: Research and verify the legitimacy of the charity organization
Legitimate Collectors: Ask for identification from collectors before donating
Secure Donation Methods: Donate only through secure and official channels like bank transfer or credit card