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tipping in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is a beautiful country, stepped in history, culture and ancient architecture. When visiting Saudi Arabia the most important thing to remember, is to be respectful of the country’s culture, traditions, laws and codes of conduct. That's why it's important to know their tipping etiquette.

tipping etiquette for hotels in Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia tip $1 - $2 at hotels

In hotels in Saudi Arabia it is increasingly common to tip for individual services, despite the service charge on most hotel bills. It is common to tip between the equivalent of between $1 and $2 for the porter and to leave the equivalent of $2 per day for the housekeeper. You can leave the tip on the bedside table or the bed.

Luxury Hotels in Saudi Arabia

There are many luxury hotels in Saudi Arabia including:

  • Dar Al Iman InterContinental in Madinah
  • Rosewood Corniche in Jeddah
  • Hotel Al Khozama in Riyadh
  • Dar Al Tawhid InterContinental in Makkah

tipping in restaurants in Saudi Arabia

In restaurants Tip 10% - 15% in Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia tipping is expected to be between 10% and 15% for good service, unless there is a service charge added to the bill. If there is a service charge there is no need to tip, unless the service was exceptional. If your food is delivered you should tip between 1 and 3 SAR.

tip etiquette at spas in Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia Don't Tip at Spas

Tipping is not always expected, more so in high end establishments. You can tip 10%, or 2 to 3 SAR.

Hotels with Spas

Some hotels in Saudi Arabia have spas. Here are a few examples:

  • InterContinental Al Ahsa
  • Sheraton Dammam Hotel & Towers
  • Four Seasons Riyadh
  • Rosewood

should you tip your tour guide?

for tour guides $10 per person in Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia tour guides will expect tips. Try to tip in an envelope. In a small group, expect to tip the equivalent of $10 per person per day, or $5-$7 in a larger group. You should also tip the driver about $5 per day, and any other person who helps out (washes the bus, runs errands, etc.) the equivalent of $2-$3 per day. Tour guides, drivers and assistants do not get paid much.

should you tip your taxi driver?

In Saudi Arabia Tip 10% for taxis

In Saudi Arabia It is customary to tip your taxi driver up to 10%.

Ordering a taxi in Saudi Arabia

Ordering a taxi in Saudi Arabia can be tricky:

  • Taxis are sometimes risky for women travelling alone.
  • There are metered fares in Riyadh. Elsewhere you must arrange a price in advance.
  • If possible, take taxis with a local you know.
  • There are no street addresses, so you must know exactly where you are going.