Giving Tips in Egypt: A Cultural Guide to Tipping Etiquette
Tipping, or baksheesh, is an essential part of the culture in Egypt. While it may not be a formal requirement, tipping is a common and expected practice in various service industries. It is considered a way to show appreciation for good service and to help supplement the often modest incomes of workers in the hospitality, tourism, and service sectors. Understanding the tipping culture in Egypt can help travelers navigate interactions with locals and ensure that they are showing respect for the customs.
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In this article, we will explore the key areas where tipping is common, how much to tip, and the general etiquette to follow when giving tips in Egypt.
1. Tipping in Restaurants and Cafes
In Egypt, tipping in restaurants and cafes is customary and expected. While many restaurants add a service charge to the bill (usually around 10% or 12%), it is still appreciated if you leave a small additional tip. The service charge does not always go directly to the server, so leaving a separate tip ensures that the staff receives the recognition for their service.
How much to tip:
- In casual restaurants or cafes: A tip of 5-10 EGP is considered sufficient for good service. For a meal in a more upscale restaurant, tipping around 10-20 EGP is common.
- In luxury or high-end restaurants: It’s customary to leave around 10-15% of the total bill. However, if a service charge is already included, you can simply leave 5-10 EGP as a token of appreciation.
2. Tipping Hotel Staff
In hotels, tipping is also an essential practice, as it is a primary source of income for many employees. From bellboys to housekeepers, tipping ensures that the staff receives proper recognition for their work. When checking into or out of a hotel, it’s polite to leave small tips for various services.
How much to tip:
- Bellboys: 5-10 EGP per bag, depending on the number and weight of your luggage.
- Housekeeping: 5-10 EGP per night, left in an envelope or in a visible place in your room.
- Concierge: If the concierge provides special assistance, such as arranging tours or booking reservations, consider tipping around 20-50 EGP depending on the complexity of the service.
- Room Service: A tip of 5-10 EGP for room service delivery.
3. Tipping Taxi Drivers
Tipping taxi drivers in Egypt is a common practice, though the amount can vary depending on the length of your ride, the service quality, and your budget. Taxi fares in Egypt are relatively inexpensive compared to many other countries, so a small tip is greatly appreciated by drivers.
How much to tip:
- For short trips: A tip of 5-10 EGP is sufficient.
- For longer trips or for drivers who provide extra service: You can tip up to 20-30 EGP or round up the fare to a convenient amount.
- Airport taxi drivers: If you take a taxi from the airport, it’s customary to tip about 10-20 EGP, especially if the driver helps with your luggage or provides assistance in navigating the airport.
4. Tipping Tour Guides and Drivers
When booking a guided tour in Egypt, tipping your tour guide and driver is an important part of the experience. Tour guides are usually paid by the tour operator, but they rely on tips for their livelihood. Drivers, especially those who accompany you on longer journeys, also appreciate tips for their service.
How much to tip:
- Tour Guides: For a full-day tour, a tip of 50-100 EGP is typical for a guide, depending on the quality of the tour and the length of time spent with them. For a half-day tour, you can tip around 30-50 EGP.
- Drivers: For drivers who accompany you on a tour or transport you from one city to another, a tip of 20-50 EGP per day is appreciated.
5. Tipping in Spas and Beauty Salons
Egypt is home to many luxurious spas and salons, particularly in resort areas like Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Cairo. Tipping for services like massages, facials, and haircuts is customary, and the staff usually expects a tip for providing excellent service.
How much to tip:
- Spa therapists and masseuses: 20-50 EGP for a massage or treatment.
- Beauty salon staff: For haircuts or beauty treatments, tipping around 20-30 EGP is appropriate.
- Spa attendants: If there are attendants who provide you with towels, water, or refreshments, a small tip of 5-10 EGP is appreciated.
6. Tipping at Tourist Sites and Attractions
While visiting Egypt’s iconic tourist sites such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Luxor Temple, and the Valley of the Kings, it is customary to tip local workers, including security guards, guides, and photographers.
How much to tip:
- Guides at tourist sites: If you hire a local guide to show you around a site, you can tip them 20-50 EGP for their services.
- Photographers and camel drivers: If someone offers to take a picture for you or assists with a camel ride, tipping around 10-20 EGP is appropriate.
- Security Guards: A small tip of 5-10 EGP for those who assist you or allow you to take photos in restricted areas.
7. Tipping in Markets and Shops
In markets and shops, tipping is generally not expected unless you receive exceptional service. However, it’s not uncommon for vendors to appreciate a small tip if they’ve been particularly helpful or have provided extra services, such as carrying your purchases or offering a guided tour of the market.
How much to tip:
- For small purchases: It’s not necessary to tip, but if you feel the service was exceptional, leaving 1-5 EGP is a nice gesture.
- For assistance with shopping or carrying items: Consider tipping around 5-10 EGP if a vendor helps you extensively.
8. General Tips for Tipping in Egypt
- Small bills: It’s advisable to keep small bills (5 EGP, 10 EGP, and 20 EGP notes) on hand for tipping purposes. This makes it easier to give appropriate amounts without over or under-tipping.
- Respectful attitude: Tipping is an important part of Egyptian culture, but it’s always important to be polite and respectful when giving a tip. A simple “thank you” and a smile can go a long way.
- Currency: It’s best to tip in Egyptian pounds (EGP). While US dollars and euros may be accepted in some tourist-heavy areas, local currency is appreciated by most service providers.
- Discretion: While tipping is expected, it’s important not to over-tip, as it can make the situation uncomfortable for both parties. The goal is to show appreciation without appearing extravagant.
Conclusion
Tipping in Egypt is an important cultural practice and a key part of daily life, especially in service-oriented industries. Understanding the local tipping customs will help you navigate your travels and ensure that you are showing appreciation for the hard work of those who provide you with service. By following the guidelines in this article, you’ll not only support the local economy but also engage with the Egyptian culture in a respectful and considerate manner.
