Tipping in Kuwait
KWDLast reviewed · Apr 2026
Tipping in Kuwait is discretionary but common. A 15% service charge is often included at hotels or for large dinners; otherwise, around 10% is appropriate.
Rounding commonMost common situations
Restaurant
Standard:10-12%
Exceptional:15%
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+Check the bill for a 15% service charge first
+Hotels and large dinners are more likely to add service charge
−No extra tip is needed if service charge is already included
Bar
Standard:Round up
Exceptional:10%
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+Hotel lounges and table service may justify more
−Casual cafe service usually only needs a small extra
Taxi
Standard:Round up
How to tip in Kuwait
•Check the bill for any 15% service charge first
•If there is no service charge, around 10% is appropriate
•Use KWD cash for small direct tips
Quick tips
Tipping is discretionary in Kuwait
Hotels and large dinners are more likely to include service charge
Taxis usually only need rounding up, if anything
Other situations (8)
DeliveryRound up
Hairdresser / BarberRound up
Spa & MassageRound up
Hotel Staff0.5-1 KWD per bag
Tour guides10%
Valet Parking0.5-1 KWD
Airport Services0.5-1 KWD per bag
Car Services / UberRound up
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Tipping questions in Kuwait
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.