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Saudi Arabia
8 scams
There is much to see and do in Saudi Arabia, such as its bustling souks, cutting edge malls, fascinating archaeological sites and amazing rock paintings!
Crime rates here are also extremely low, though there are some tourist targeted scams that spike during the Hajj to watch out for.
Note: vast majority of trips are trouble free and there is no need to be paranoid. That said, it always pays to be aware, careful, and prepared.
Emergency numbers
- Police: 999
- Ambulance: 997
- Fire: 998
- Traffic police: 993
Travel resources
Beggars in Saudi Arabia
4 0How it works: Version 1: a family in a car approaches and claims that they cannot successfully perform the Hajj due to financial constraints and asks if you can help….
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Fake Zamzam water in Saudi Arabia
5 0How it works: Zamzam water is water from the Zamzam well in Islam’s holiest place, the Grand Mosque. The government has given licenses to only a few stores to sell…
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Fake Hajj online travel agents in Saudi Arabia
5 0How it works: Situation: occurs every year during the Hajj as scammers exploit Saudi Arabia’s strict visa system. Opening: online travel agents offer to help you get a visa fast…
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Sob story scammers in Saudi Arabia
2 0How it works: Version 1: a woman carrying a baby seemingly in need of medical attention asks if you can give some cash. Version 2: a family in a car…
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Unlicensed taxis in Saudi Arabia
1 0How it works: Version 1: intercepting you before you reach the official taxi counter/queue. Version 2: a well-dressed man posing as an airport/government staff asks to see your passport. He…
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Taxi scams in Saudi Arabia
1 0How it works: Version 1: claiming that the meter is down and quoting you an inflated flat fare. Version 2: taking a longer route or detour to inflate the fare….
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Vacation apartment scams in Saudi Arabia
1 0How it works: There have been both fake listings on legitimate sites as well as fake sites. Red flags: cheap prices, copy-pasted description, dodgy sounding reviews, difference in photos and…
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Pickpockets in Saudi Arabia
0 0How it works: They work in a gang – one onlooker, one blocks, pushes, distracts, or engages you, one grabs and the final hides the loot under a cover (e.g….
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