Tipping in Egypt: A Traveler’s Guide
Tipping in Egypt is more than just a kind gesture—it’s an important cultural norm that plays a role in the daily lives of many service workers. Whether you’re on a luxurious Nile cruise, checking into a five-star hotel, or simply dining in a local restaurant, tipping is often expected and appreciated. This guide will help you understand how to tip in Egypt, how much is appropriate, and how tourists should handle tipping in different situations.
Is Tipping in Egypt Mandatory?
No, tipping in Egypt is not mandatory. However, it is widely practiced and often anticipated, especially in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Tipping for tourists is seen as a polite way to thank service workers for their assistance, and even modest tips can go a long way in supporting local families.
How Much Should You Tip in Egypt?
There are no strict rules when it comes to tipping in Egypt. It’s completely at your discretion, and you should only tip what you feel is fair based on the quality of service. Still, having a general guideline can help travelers avoid uncertainty and feel more confident when visiting Egypt.
Here’s a breakdown of common tipping practices for tourists:
- Drivers: $10–15 USD per traveler per day
Drivers often spend long hours navigating traffic to ensure your safety and comfort. A daily tip of around $10 to $15 is a respectful amount. - Airport Representatives: $15–20 USD per traveler
These individuals assist with airport pickups, handling luggage, and ensuring smooth transfers. A tip of $15 to $20 is customary and appreciated. - Nile Cruise Staff: $10–15 USD per traveler per day
If you’re enjoying a Nile cruise, it’s polite to tip the cruise staff at the end of your stay. Some travelers prefer to hand this to the front desk in a single envelope; others may distribute it personally. Your guide on board can help with this. - Tour Guides: $25–30 USD per traveler per day
Egypt’s licensed tour guides are often highly educated and play a critical role in enriching your journey with local history, insights, and seamless logistics. A tip of $25 to $30 per day per person is a fair way to recognize their expertise. - Hotel Staff: $1–3 USD for bellboys, housekeeping, or room service is customary
A few dollars for staff who assist with your luggage or maintain your room is a nice gesture and often expected in high-end hotels. - Restaurants and Cafés: 5–10% of the bill if service is not included
In most upscale restaurants, a service charge may already be added to the bill. If not, leaving 5–10% is standard. - Local Shops and Markets: Tipping is not required
However, if someone goes out of their way to help you or gives extra service (like packing your goods or haggling with you patiently), a small tip is always welcomed.
How Tourists Tip in Egypt: Cash or Card?
Cash is king when tipping in Egypt. Most workers prefer tips in Egyptian pounds (EGP), although U.S. dollars or euros are also accepted. If you tip in foreign currency, try to give bills rather than coins, as coins can be difficult to exchange.
When preparing for your trip, it’s a good idea to carry a small stash of low-denomination notes in local currency or small USD bills to make tipping easy and spontaneous.
When Not to Tip
While tipping in Egypt is common, you shouldn’t feel obligated to tip for poor service. Likewise, tipping is not required in large supermarkets, modern retail stores, or ticketed attractions.
Tips for a Smooth Tipping Experience
- Always keep small bills or change handy
- Don’t feel pressured to over-tip
- If you’re unsure, ask your guide or hotel concierge for advice
- Feel free to say “thank you” and move on if you don’t wish to tip
Final Thoughts: Tipping in Egypt as a Cultural Exchange
Understanding how to tip in Egypt helps you engage with local customs respectfully and allows you to show appreciation for those who make your journey more enjoyable. While the amounts may vary depending on your budget and experience, tipping is ultimately a way to say “thank you” in a country known for its warmth and hospitality.
Whether it’s your driver navigating the streets of Cairo or a cruise attendant pouring your morning coffee on the Nile, your tip—no matter how small—is often received with gratitude and a smile.
