Tipping in Egypt
EGPLast reviewed · Apr 2026
Tipping is expected in Egypt. In restaurants, 10-15% is common, and service charge on the bill may not go directly to staff.
Tipping expectedMost common situations
Restaurant
Standard:10-15%
Exceptional:15%
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+Service charge on the bill may not go directly to staff
+Cash tips are often preferred for direct service
−Casual local places may leave smaller cash instead of a full percentage
Bar
Standard:10-20 EGP
Taxi
Standard:Round up
Exceptional:10-20 EGP
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+Agree the fare first when there is no meter
−A percentage tip is not expected
How to tip in Egypt
•Check whether service charge is already on the bill
•Tip in EGP cash when possible
•Treat guides, drivers, and cruise staff separately from restaurant tipping
Quick tips
"Baksheesh" usually means a small cash tip or gratuity
Nile cruise staff and guides are tipped separately from restaurant staff
Small EGP notes are useful for everyday tipping
Other situations (8)
Delivery5-10 EGP
Hairdresser / Barber10-20 EGP
Spa & Massage10-15%
Hotel Staff10-20 EGP per bag
Tour guides100-200 EGP per day
Valet Parking5-10 EGP
Airport Services10-20 EGP per bag
Car Services / UberRound up
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Tipping questions in Egypt
Tipping Terms Glossary
- Service charge
- A mandatory fee added to the bill by the establishment, separate from optional tips.
- Round up
- To increase the total bill amount to the nearest convenient whole number or denomination.
- Exceptional service
- Service that exceeds standard expectations, often warranting a higher tip percentage or amount.
- Cash preferred
- A preference for cash tips over card tips, often because card tips may not reach staff directly.