Question 1

What is the "Free Gift Placement Scam" scam in Cairo?

Accepted Answer

Near the Giza Pyramids entrance, at the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, and along the tourist strip in Islamic Cairo, vendors physically place a bracelet, scarf, or small figurine into a tourist's hand or onto their wrist without asking. The moment the tourist holds the item the vendor demands payment, often becoming aggressive or grabbing the tourist's arm if they try to return it. Keep your hands at your sides and do not accept or touch anything offered to you. If an item is placed on your wrist, remove it immediately and set it down on the nearest flat surface — do not hand it back, as this re-engages the vendor. Walk away without making eye contact.

Question 2

What is the "Friendly Local Misdirection to Commission Shop" scam in Cairo?

Accepted Answer

A well-dressed local near Tahrir Square, the Egyptian Museum, or the Khan el-Khalili entrance approaches tourists claiming the site they are looking for is closed today for a holiday or government event. They then offer to personally escort the tourist to a "special gallery," papyrus institute, or spice market where they receive a commission on every purchase made. Verify opening hours independently using Google Maps or the official Egypt Tourism Authority website before visiting any site. If someone tells you a site is closed, walk to the entrance yourself and check. Licensed sites in Cairo very rarely close without advance notice.

Question 3

What is the "Shoe Shine Trick" scam in Cairo?

Accepted Answer

Near Downtown Cairo and in tourist zones around the Egyptian Museum, a man drops a brush or rag near a tourist's feet, crouches to retrieve it, and in one motion begins shining the tourist's shoes without being asked. When finished he demands a large fee — often $10–20 — and follows or creates a scene if refused. Wear sandals or shoes you do not care about in tourist areas. If someone crouches toward your shoes immediately step back and say "no" clearly. Never allow the shine to begin — once started the social pressure to pay becomes very difficult to resist.

Street Scams in Cairo

Free Gift Placement Scam

Friendly Local Misdirection to Commission Shop

Shoe Shine Trick

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