Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Erbil, Iraq

All Topics about Erbil All Cities in Iraq

1. Taxi Scams

Avoid overpriced taxi rides or being directed to unnecessary stops. Always agree on the price beforehand.

Price Negotiation: Agreeing on the price before starting the journey is crucial.
Knowledgeable Taxi Drivers: Ensure drivers know the routes and don't take unnecessary detours.
Avoiding Peak Hours: Travel during off-peak hours to avoid increased prices.

Be vigilant when exchanging money at street vendors. Official exchange offices provide better rates and security.

Official Exchange Offices: Exchange your currency at authorized exchange offices for fair rates.
Avoid Street Vendors: Street vendors may offer unfavorable exchange rates or try to cheat you.
Check Rates: Always compare the offered exchange rate with the standard market rate.

Ensure your tour guide is licensed and reputable. Unauthorized guides may lead you to overpriced stores or scams.

Licensed Tour Guides: Choose a licensed, registered tour guide for your safety and peace of mind.
Check Reviews: Read reviews online before choosing a tour guide to ensure their reputation.
Avoid Street Solicitation: Don't agree to tours offered by street solicitations; they may not be licensed guides.

Negotiate prices and compare with multiple vendors before buying souvenirs. Some shops in touristy areas may overcharge.

Bargain for Better Prices: Always negotiate the price before making a purchase.
Avoid Touristy Areas: Shop in local markets or less touristy areas for fairer prices.
Compare Prices: Always compare prices between vendors before making a purchase.

Ensure you pay the correct entrance fee for historical sites. Some vendors may try to overcharge or deceive visitors.

Official Ticket Booths: Buy tickets at official ticket booths to ensure the correct fees.
Avoid Unofficial Vendors: Don't buy tickets from unauthorized vendors.
Check Entrance Fee Rates: Research the correct entrance fee for each historical site before visiting.

Avoid restaurants in touristy areas. Local eateries offer better prices and authentic food experiences.

Local Eateries: Try local eateries for a more genuine, cost-effective dining experience.
Avoid Touristy Areas: Don't dine in touristy areas where prices are usually inflated.
Price Comparison: Compare menu prices at various eateries before making a decision.

Buy your SIM card from official outlets to avoid scams and fraudulent services.

Official Outlets: Purchase your SIM card from authorized retailers or service providers.
Avoid Street Vendors: Don't buy Sim cards from street vendors; they may be faulty or overpriced.
Check Coverage: Research the coverage area and services offered by each provider before making a choice.

Stay at reputable hotels and read reviews to avoid poor service or scams. Some unscrupulous hotels may overcharge or provide subpar accommodations.

Reputable Hotels: Choose well-known, reputable hotels for a reliable service.
Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to make an informed decision.
Compare Prices: Compare hotel prices across various booking platforms before making a reservation.

Be cautious when donating to charities, especially those soliciting on the street. Research legitimate charitable organizations in Erbil.

Legitimate Charities: Donate to registered, reputable charities with a proven track record.
Avoid Street Solicitation: Don't donate to street solicitations; they may not be legitimate charities.
Check for Transparency: Ensure the charity provides transparency on how donations are used and their impact.

Rent a car from a reputable company to avoid overpricing and hidden fees. Be cautious of aggressive sales tactics.

Reputable Rental Companies: Choose a well-known, reliable rental company for your car.
Check Included Services: Ensure the rental price includes insurance, fuel, and any other necessary services.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices with the rental company to secure a fair deal.

Stay vigilant when approached by police officers. If something seems suspicious, contact the local embassy or consulate.

Contact Local Embassy: In case of suspicion, immediately reach out to your country's embassy or consulate for assistance.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your instincts and take appropriate action.

Be cautious when buying gold or jewelry in Erbil. Ensure you are dealing with a reputable vendor and check the quality of your purchase.

Reputable Vendors: Purchase gold or jewelry from established, trustworthy vendors.
Check Quality: Ensure the quality of your purchase by asking for certifications or appraisals.
Compare Prices: Shop around and compare prices before making a purchase.

Be wary of overfriendly locals who may offer assistance or guide you to certain shops. They may be trying to take advantage of you.

Mind Your Belongings: Keep a close eye on your belongings at all times, especially in crowded places.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Don't venture into isolated areas alone.
Stick with Trusted Contacts: Stay in groups and stick with trusted contacts when exploring Erbil.

Use reputable internet cafes to avoid identity theft or malware infections. Be cautious when using unsecured public Wi-Fi.

Reputable Internet Cafes: Choose well-known, reputable internet cafes for your safety.
Use a VPN: Use a virtual private network (VPN) to protect your online privacy and security.
Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Don't conduct sensitive transactions, like banking or credit card purchases, on unsecured Wi-Fi networks.

Avoid unlicensed guides who may lead you to overpriced shops or scams. Always verify a guide's license and reputation before using their services.

Licensed Guides: Choose a licensed, registered tour guide for your safety and peace of mind.
Check Reviews: Read reviews online before choosing a guide to ensure their reputation.
Avoid Street Solicitation: Don't agree to tours offered by street solicitations; they may not be licensed guides.