Taxi Scams in Cairo: How to Avoid Getting Overcharged (2026)

Cairo taxis have a complex reputation. Here's which scams are real, how to negotiate correctly, and when to use Uber instead.

Cairo's taxi culture can be bewildering for first-time visitors. Traditional black-and-white taxis often do not use meters and fares are typically negotiated. This creates room for overcharging tourists significantly. Newer white CNG taxis and app-based services (Uber, Careem) have made the situation much easier — but if you venture into traditional cab territory, knowing the rules protects you.

Common Cairo Taxi Scams

• •Not using the meter in metered taxis: Newer taxis are metered but drivers often refuse to use it for tourists. Insist on the meter or use Uber.
• •Fake "meters" or no meter at all: Old black-and-white taxis are negotiated — there is no meter. Agree the fare before getting in.
• •Airport overcharging: Drivers at Cairo International quote inflated rates to new arrivals. The legitimate fare to central Cairo is EGP 200–400; quotes of EGP 700+ are common.
• •Midnight price inflation: Some drivers double their rates after dark. Agree the fare explicitly before getting in at night.
• •"I don't have change": Driver claims he can't make change to keep more than the agreed fare. Carry exact change or small notes.

Getting Around Cairo Safely

Uber and Careem (owned by Uber) both operate extensively in Cairo and are the strongly recommended options for tourists. Fares are upfront in Egyptian Pounds, no negotiation is needed, and the driver's details are recorded. For the airport, both apps have dedicated pick-up zones. If you do take a traditional taxi, agree the fare in full (in EGP) before entering the vehicle — saying the destination and a fair price ("Tahrir Square, EGP 150?") — and only pay the agreed amount on arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions