These are the tourist scams Trzly has documented across Kuwait, grouped by destination. Each one is real, with a clear way to stay safe. Read before you land.
手口: Many Kuwaiti street taxis do not run a meter, and some drivers quote a high flat fare once they realise you are a tourist, or invent a much larger price at the end of a ride that was never agreed upfront.
避け方: Always agree the fare before getting in, or better still use Careem or Uber, which fix the price in advance. Know the rough cost of your route, and do not get in if a driver refuses to name a fair price.
手口: Drivers at Kuwait International Airport sometimes quote well above the normal rate, or approach you inside the terminal offering a 'special' ride that turns out much more expensive than the official rank or an app.
避け方: Use only the official taxi desk outside arrivals and confirm the fare first, or book a ride-hailing app to the marked pickup point. Never accept a ride from someone touting for business inside the building.
手口: At the airport, malls and busy areas, unlicensed drivers may offer a lift at an unclear price, then charge far more than a regulated taxi or app once you are on the way.
避け方: Stick to official taxis, hotel cars or ride-hailing apps with a driver and plate you can verify. Decline unsolicited offers, and agree any price in full before the car moves.
手口: In Souq Al-Mubarakiya and tourist-facing shops, some sellers start prices high, present ordinary goods as rare, or push overpriced perfume, oud or 'antiques' to visitors who do not bargain.
避け方: Gentle haggling is normal in the souq; expect to pay below the first price and compare a few stalls. Be sceptical of grand antique claims, and buy gold and perfume from established, well-known shops.
手口: A few cafes and shops in tourist areas may charge visitors more than locals, add unrequested extras, or leave prices off the menu so the total is a surprise at the end.
避け方: Check that prices are displayed before ordering, keep your receipt, and count your change. The Kuwaiti dinar is a high-value currency divided into 1,000 fils, so learn the note and coin values early to avoid confusion.