Question 1

What is the "Train Station Two-Tier Ticket Confusion" scam in Alexandria?

Accepted Answer

Since December 2022, Egyptian Railways charges foreigners USD-denominated fares that are substantially higher than Egyptian pound fares paid by locals — a legal two-tier pricing system. However, unofficial touts and unauthorised ticket sellers near Alexandria Misr Station and Sidi Gaber Station exploit visitor confusion about this policy, selling overpriced or counterfeit tickets, charging above the official foreigner rate, or steering tourists to specific travel agents who add a significant markup. Some touts tell visitors the official foreigner ticket window is closed and offer to buy tickets on their behalf. Buy train tickets only from the official foreigner ticket window at the station (clearly signed at both Alexandria Misr Station and Cairo Ramses Station) or book directly through the Egyptian National Railways website. The official foreigner fare for Cairo–Alexandria is set in USD and posted at the window. Decline any offer from unofficial sellers to queue or purchase on your behalf.

Question 2

What is the "Short-Changing in Egyptian Pounds" scam in Alexandria?

Accepted Answer

In tourist-facing shops, taxi transactions, and market stalls across Alexandria, visitors are short-changed by vendors who take advantage of unfamiliarity with Egyptian pound denominations. The practice is common when paying with large notes, where change is counted quickly and incorrectly. Carry small denominations where possible to minimize change-giving opportunities. Count change immediately and visibly before moving away from any transaction. Familiarize yourself with Egyptian pound note values — the 20 EGP and 50 EGP notes are sometimes confused by visitors.

Money & ATM Scams in Alexandria

Train Station Two-Tier Ticket Confusion

Short-Changing in Egyptian Pounds

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