Tipping in the UAE
AED
Last reviewed · Aug 2026Sources & methodology
Tipping is customary in the UAE hospitality scene, though not legally required. Many restaurants add a service charge (often ~10%) plus tourism fees; if no charge is on the bill, 10-15% is the usual tip. When service charge is already included, a modest extra tip to staff (about 5-10% or a few dirhams) is optional. AED is preferred for tips.
Tipping customaryQuick answer
Restaurant
Standard:Service included
Exceptional:5-10%
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+No service charge: 10-15% is customary (The National / local guides)
+With service charge: modest cash to staff (about 5-10% or AED 5-10) is appreciated; cafes usually round up
−Service charge often auto-added — extra tip is optional
Bar
Standard:Round up
Taxi
Standard:Round up
Exceptional:10%
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+Round up or AED 5-10
+10% on longer trips. Careem and Uber in-app tip optional.
How to tip in the UAE
•Check the bill for service charge and tourism levy
•Tip in AED when possible
•Round up or small cash for taxis and casual spots
Quick tips
10% service charge often at upscale restaurants and hotels (may go to business not staff)
AED preferred
USD sometimes accepted
More tipping situations (8)
DeliveryRound up
Hairdresser / BarberRound up
Spa & Massage10-15%
Hotel Staff5-10 AED
Tour guides50-100 AED
Valet Parking5-10 AED
Airport ServicesRound up
Car Services / UberRound up
Related guides
Travel essentials
Helpful tools for planning your trip to the UAE
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Tipping questions in the UAE
Sources & methodology
We cross-check tipping guidance across multiple independent sources, with local and official sources prioritized where available.
Sources reviewed for the UAE
