Tipping in United Arab Emirates
AEDLast reviewed · Feb 2026
Tipping is not expected in the UAE but is commonly practised. Many restaurants add a 10% service charge (and sometimes 6% tourism levy); if not included, 10-15% is customary. AED is preferred for tips.
Tipping not expectedMost common situations
Restaurant
Standard:Service included
Exceptional:10-15%
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+No service charge: 10-15%. Service charge often auto-added?extra tip for staff appreciated. Cafés round up or few dirhams.
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 United Arab Emirates
•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
Other situations
DeliveryRound up
Hairdresser / BarberRound up
Spa & Massage10-15%
Hotel Staff5-10 AED
Tour guides0-20%
Valet Parking5-10 AED
Airport ServicesRound up
Car Services / UberRound up
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.