Question 1

What is the "Unlicensed Taxi Overcharging" scam in Baku?

Accepted Answer

Drivers outside the airport and near tourist sites quote flat rates that are 5–10x the metered fare, then demand the agreed price in euros rather than manat. Use the Bolt app or agree on a manat price before entering. Ignore drivers who approach you first.

Question 2

What is the "Airport Ride-Hail Cancellation Bait" scam in Baku?

Accepted Answer

At Heydar Aliyev International Airport, drivers accepting Bolt or Uber bookings wait for the passenger to enter the vehicle before claiming the app fare is incorrect or that a "surcharge" applies for luggage, night hours, or motorway tolls not reflected in the app price. When passengers refuse, drivers cancel the trip mid-journey or at a deserted roadside and demand the passenger exit, effectively holding luggage in the boot as leverage. Alternatively, drivers accept the booking, drive a few hundred metres from the terminal, then cancel and immediately offer to complete the trip as a private cash fare at two to three times the app price. Screenshot the booking confirmation and driver details before entering the vehicle. Confirm the in-app fare covers the full journey before departure. If a driver demands extra cash, remain in the car, call Bolt/Uber support in-app, and do not hand over cash. Have the airport taxi desk number saved as a backup.

Taxi & Transport Scams in Baku

Unlicensed Taxi Overcharging

Airport Ride-Hail Cancellation Bait

Experienced a scam here?