Tipping in Egypt 2026: The Ultimate Guide on How Much to Pay
If there is one thing that confuses travelers more than hieroglyphics, it is the unspoken rules of Tipping in Egypt (known locally as Baksheesh).
“Do I tip the taxi driver? How much for the tour guide? Is tipping mandatory?”
As a local travel agency, we hear these questions every day. The truth is, tipping in Egypt is a deeply rooted part of the culture, but there is no “official” rulebook. That is why we created this comprehensive Tipping in Egypt guide for 2026 to help you budget correctly and avoid awkward situations.
(Planning your trip? Make sure to also read our guide: Is Egypt Safe for Tourists in 2026? for essential safety tips).
The Culture of Tipping in Egypt Explained
To understand tipping in Egypt, you first need to understand the local economy. For many service workers, the basic salary is quite low, and tips often make up a significant part of their monthly income.
While it is never legally mandatory, leaving a tip is highly expected and appreciated as a sign of gratitude for good service. Think of it as a way of saying “Thank you” that directly supports the local community.
The Ultimate Tipping in Egypt Cheat Sheet (2026)
Here is a quick breakdown of standard rates. You can pay in Egyptian Pounds (EGP), US Dollars, or Euros. Before you travel, it is always smart to check the current exchange rates on XE.com to know the value of your money.
1. Hotels & Accommodation
- Bellman/Porter: 50 – 100 EGP ($1 – $2) per bag.
- Housekeeping: 50 – 100 EGP ($1 – $2) per night (leave it on the bed with a note).
- Concierge: 100 – 200 EGP ($2 – $4) if they help you with a difficult reservation.
2. Restaurants & Cafes
- Waiters: Check your bill first. If “Service Charge” is included, a small additional tip of 5% – 10% is polite. If not, the standard for tipping in Egypt at restaurants is 10% – 15% of the total bill.
- Street Food/Cafes: Round up the bill or leave 10 – 20 EGP.
3. Drivers & Guides (The Most Important)
If you book one of our private [Cairo Day Tours], your team will work hard to make your day perfect.
- Tour Guide: $15 – $25 per day (per couple/group).
- Driver: $10 – $15 per day (per couple/group).
- Airport Transfer Driver: $5 – $10 per transfer.
4. Nile Cruises
On board ships like the MS Soleil Nile Cruise, tipping is usually handled differently to ensure fairness.
- The Policy: Most cruises ask you to place your tip in an envelope at the reception at the end of the trip. This is then shared among all crew (kitchen, housekeeping, sailors).
- Recommended Amount: $10 – $15 per person, per night.
Tipping in Egypt at Coastal Resorts (Hurghada & Sharm)
If you are visiting Red Sea resorts, the rules are slightly different. In all-inclusive resorts, you might feel that tips are not needed. However, tipping the bartender or your regular waiter at the beginning of your stay (e.g., $5 – $10) often ensures premium service and faster drinks for the rest of your vacation.
USD or EGP: Which is Better?
A common question about tipping in Egypt is regarding the currency.
- For small tips (bathroom attendants, porters): Egyptian Pounds (EGP) are best. It is hard to tip someone 50 cents, but easy to give a 50 EGP note.
- For larger tips (guides, drivers, cruise staff): USD, EUR, or GBP are perfectly acceptable and often preferred due to their stability.
Pro Tip: Always carry small bills (10s, 20s, and 50s EGP). You will need them constantly!
When You Should NOT Tip
Even though tipping in Egypt is customary, you are never obligated to pay for bad service.
- If a taxi driver refuses to use the meter.
- If someone forces help on you that you didn’t ask for (like grabbing your luggage aggressively).
- In these cases, a firm “No, thank you” is enough.
Final Verdict on Tipping
At the end of the day, tipping in Egypt is about appreciation. If someone made your trip special, a generous tip is a kind way to say thank you.
At Travel to Egypt, we pride ourselves on transparent pricing and excellent service. Whether you are looking for Luxury Nile Cruises or a quick day trip, our team is here to help you explore Egypt without the stress.
Ready to book? Explore our Egypt Vacation Packages today