Destinations › Iran › Tehran › Scams
Tehran, Iran
10 reported scam patterns travellers run into in Tehran, what they look like, and how to sidestep them.
Carpets and 'antique' rugs sold with false claims of age, origin and hand-knotting, often with certificates that mean nothing and shipping arrangements that fail.
Shared taxis charging private-hire rates to foreign passengers, and drivers refusing to state a fare until the destination is reached.
Unlicensed street money changers offering strong rates then shortchanging during the count or passing invalid notes.
Exchange confusion between the official rial and the toman used in everyday speech, exploited to overcharge visitors by a factor of ten. Confirm which unit a price is quoted in.
Fake charity collectors operating near major shrines and bazaar entrances with unverifiable documentation.
Restaurants in tourist areas adding undisclosed service charges and items not ordered.
Pickpocketing in the covered bazaar and on crowded metro lines at peak hours.
Saffron and spice sold as premium grade that is adulterated or a different product entirely.
Unlicensed guides at heritage sites and bazaars charging well above licensed rates and steering visitors to commission-paying shops.
Guesthouse bookings not honoured on arrival, with guests moved to lesser properties at the original rate.
