tipping in Egypt
The Egyptian term for “tip” is “Backsheesh” and you will definitely hear service workers speak use this word. A “Backsheesh” will be requested of you from anyone who offers you a service and even by some who have not. Of course, don’t ever feel obligated to tip some-one who has not provided you a service. Egyptian service workers may look disappointed or comment rudely about the amount of your tip, implying that it is too low. Don’t let this bother you; It's simply part of tipping etiquette in Egypt. If this happens, either take your gratuity back or simply smile and say that that is enough.
Egyptian currency is in pounds and each pound is made up of 100 piastres. Small bills like 1s and 5s are useful for tipping in Egypt. In fact, many vendors will not be able to accept large bills. Tipping is very important in Egypt, since many of the Egyptian workers are not being paid much and rely on tips.
tipping etiquette for hotels in Egypt
in Egypt Tip 3-10 LE at Hotels
In Egypt you will be expected to tip anyone in your hotel who assists you. Tip the luggage man at the hotel 3-5 LE per bag both as he walks them in and as he walks them out. Give the maid 5-10 LE per night. If you eat breakfast at your hotel, plan on tipping the waiter or waitress a gratuity of 5-10 LE per meal.
tipping in restaurants in Egypt
In Egypt Tip 10% when dining out
Generally tipping around 10% is good etiquette at a restaurant in Egypt. However, you will more than likely see a “service charge” on your bill. This service charge goes to the restaurant, not the waiter so be sure to tip the waiter or waitress in addition. They will rely on this money for their income. If the service is exceptional, you could always leave a larger gratuity than 10%.
tip etiquette at spas in Egypt
At Spas Tip 10-15% in Egypt
Generally, in Egypt, you should tip between 10 and 15%. If you are pleased with your time at the spa, tip closer to 15%. If you are not pleased tip closer to 10% or even a bit less. Feel free to voice any concerns you may have had during your visit to appropriate management. It's better to do this than to not leave a tip. If you don't leave a gratuity the staff may just assume you forgot.
should you tip your tour guide?
in Egypt Tip 50 LE per day for tour guides
Going on tours is one way to experience Egypt to its absolute fullest therefore you should tip generously. If a driver is taking you sightseeing for the day, plan on tipping him around 50 LE. If he takes you for a half day 25 LE is a good amount. If your guide takes you sightseeing for a full day, plan on tipping him around 80-100 LE. For a half-day, leave a gratuity of around 40-50 LE. In addition, be aware that you will should leave 2 or 3 LE for your bathroom attendants.
should you tip your taxi driver?
In Egypt Don't Tip Your Taxi driver
In Egypt it is not customary to tip taxi drivers. You will agree upon a price prior to your taxi ride and the tip should be included in the price. However, if traffic is bad or the taxi driver offers you knowledge of the culture or is extra friendly, you could always leave a little extra money, or round up.
Gratuities in hotels in Egypt
In Egypt Tip 10-15% at Hairdressers
Typically, you should tip your hairdresser between 10% and 15% of your total bill in Egypt. Give this amount to him or her in cash once they are finished. If the person who shampooed your hair is different from your hairdresser tip that individual as well. If you are pleased with the service, tip towards the higher end, and if you are not, tip towards the lower end. Even if you are not pleased with your hair, you should still leave your hairdresser something. If you don't your hair stylist may assume you forgot to leave a gratuity.