Question 1

What is the "Airport Taxi Overcharging" scam in Alexandria?

Accepted Answer

Taxis from Alexandria Borg El Arab Airport to central Alexandria (a 45 km journey) frequently quote inflated flat rates, sometimes three to four times the legitimate metered fare. Drivers target arriving tourists and often claim no meter applies to airport routes. The journey is long enough that overcharging can amount to a significant sum. Use the airport bus or pre-arranged hotel transfer from Borg El Arab Airport. If taking a taxi, negotiate and agree on the fare before entering the vehicle. The approximate legitimate fare to central Alexandria is 150-200 EGP; significantly higher quotes indicate overcharging.

Question 2

What is the "Ride-App Off-App Payment Request" scam in Alexandria?

Accepted Answer

Drivers accepting Uber or Careem bookings in Alexandria frequently ask passengers to pay cash outside the app, claiming the app charges them high fees or that the in-app fare is wrong. Once the passenger agrees to a cash deal, they lose all app protections and the driver can demand an inflated amount at journey end. Some drivers accept a booking then immediately refuse to proceed unless the passenger agrees to pay cash, effectively using the app purely as a lead-generation tool. Always pay through the Uber or Careem app and decline any request to settle outside it. If a driver insists on cash before starting, cancel the ride and request a new one. Report drivers who solicit off-app payments through the app feedback system. Pre-booking and pre-paying removes all opportunity for this approach.

Question 3

What is the "Horse Carriage Overpricing" scam in Alexandria?

Accepted Answer

Horse-drawn carriages (calèches) near Qaitbay Citadel and the Corniche offer city tours without agreeing on a price upfront. Drivers take tourists on extended routes then demand far more than any implied or reasonable fare. If passengers refuse, drivers can become confrontational in isolated areas. Agree on the total price and the specific route before boarding any horse carriage. Confirm whether the price is per person or per carriage. Do not board until the fare is agreed and note that the duration and route are fixed — drivers sometimes add unplanned detours to justify higher charges.

Taxi & Transport Scams in Alexandria

Airport Taxi Overcharging

Ride-App Off-App Payment Request

Horse Carriage Overpricing

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