Tipping in Egypt
Who depends on tips?
Most people in Egypt rely on tips for their income, such as waiters, porters, drivers, tour guides, and cleaning staff.
How much should you tip?
The amount is up to you and depends on the service and the person. Many think you can only tip in US dollars or Egyptian pounds, but that is not true.
Should you tip at all?
Tipping is not mandatory. While staff appreciate tips greatly, you will still receive service without giving any.
When should you tip?
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For drivers and transfer helpers, tip when getting out of the vehicle.
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For porters, tip when your luggage arrives at the room. If you arrive during meal times, it’s better to tip the porter beforehand so your luggage is already in your room when you get there.
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For housekeeping, it’s best to tip on the first day to encourage good service. If the housekeeper goes on vacation during your stay, they will share the tip with a colleague.
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At reception, place some money in your passport upon arrival and show it to the staff. This can motivate them to upgrade your room, for example, to one with a sea view if available.
Note: Tipping is not mandatory but it improves the mood and treatment you receive.