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Tipping in Saudi Arabia

SARLast reviewed · Feb 2026

Tipping is optional in Saudi Arabia. Many bills include a 10-15% service charge; if not, 10-15% is customary. Always use SAR. Saudi staff may refuse tips (seen as charity); non-Saudi workers are more likely to accept. Tour guides and drivers often rely on tips.

Tipping not expected

Most common situations

Restaurant
Standard:Service included
Exceptional:10-15%
Show details
+No service charge: 10-15%. Saudi waiters may refuse (charity)
+non-Saudi accept. Casual cafés round up.
Bar
Standard:Round up
Taxi
Standard:3-10 SAR
How to tip in Saudi Arabia
•Check the bill for service charge
•Tip in SAR cash only
•Offer discreetly—Saudi staff may refuse
Quick tips
10-15% service charge often on restaurant and hotel bills
SAR only
tip in envelope for guides/drivers
Other situations
Delivery1-3 SAR
Hairdresser / BarberRound up
Spa & Massage10%
Hotel Staff4-10 SAR
Tour guides25-40 SAR
Valet ParkingRound up
Airport ServicesRound up
Car Services / Uber3-10 SAR

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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.