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Tourist scams and rip-offs in Tashkent, Uzbekistan: how to avoid them
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Tashkent is generally safe and low-pressure for tourists, with petty street scams and taxi overcharging being the main concerns. The biggest thing to watch is unofficial drivers at the airport overcharging, and exchange-related tricks. Stick to metered or app taxis and official exchange rules for a smooth visit.
Updated September 2026
Common scams in Tashkent, Uzbekistan and how to avoid them
1. Unlicensed airport drivers
How it works: Drivers approach tourists in the arrivals hall and quote inflated flat fares in dollars or high sums, often triple the metered price. They negotiate before the meter runs and may take longer routes.
How to avoid it: Walk to the official taxi rank or book through a ride-hail app so the fare is metered and fixed in advance. Refuse anyone who approaches inside.
2. Street money changers
How it works: Individuals near markets or the main square offer above-official rates, then shortchange, use worn bills, or count with a fast hand trick. Some hand over old or fake notes.
How to avoid it: Use only banks and licensed exchange booths that print a receipt. Count cash yourself and ignore anyone offering a better rate on the street.
3. Distraction and pickpocketing
How it works: Small groups create a commotion or crowd around a tourist while someone lifts a wallet or phone from a bag or pocket in busy markets and on crowded buses.
How to avoid it: Keep bags zipped and in front, carry only what you need, and stay aware in dense crowds.
Official tickets for the top sights in Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Skip street sellers: book official tickets and tours with free cancellation.
From the airport to the city centre
Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport
Use the official taxi rank or a ride-hail app like Yandex Taxi for metered fares near 60,000 to 120,000 sum to the centre. Refuse unlicensed drivers who approach inside the arrivals hall.
Best alternative: Express train (Afrosiyob-style airport link) to Tashkent's central station, plus metro and bus connections onward
Public transport: tickets, validation and fines
- Validation rules
- Buy a ticket or tap a contactless card at station gates before boarding buses and metro. No separate validation stamp is needed, but you must have a valid ticket if inspected.
- Paying by card
- Contactless bank cards and phones work for metro and many buses, with daily caps on some routes
Tipping and service charges
Tipping: Not expected in restaurants or taxis; rounding up is appreciated. No fixed percentage norm.
Cover and service charges: Service and cover charges are uncommon in normal eateries; menus normally show prices. Unusual extra charges are rare and not a set practice.
Cards, ATMs and currency exchange
Choose to be charged in Uzbekistan sums and decline dynamic currency conversion at ATMs and terminals. Prefer bank-attached ATMs over independent machines with high fees. Exchange only at banks or official booths, never on the street.
Areas where extra care is advised
- Centre and metro: Around the main station and on crowded metro lines late at night, keep bags closed and valuables out of reach due to occasional pickpocketing.
- Chorsu bazaar: In the busy market crowds, keep wallets and phones secured and be wary of distraction tricks; activity is normal market bustle, not high danger.
Emergency number
102
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Frequently Asked Questions about Tashkent, Uzbekistan
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Based on widely reported traveler experiences and official advice. Prices are approximate and change; check current fares on arrival. Updated September 2026.