Tipping (baksheesh) is deeply embedded in Egyptian culture and is a significant part of service workers' income. Many hospitality and tourism workers earn very low base wages and rely on tips to make ends meet. Tipping generously and frequently — even for small gestures of help — is both culturally appropriate and genuinely impactful.
In tourist-facing restaurants, tip 10–15% of the bill. In local Egyptian eateries, 5–10% or rounding up by a few pounds is sufficient and appreciated. If a service charge is already included on the bill, a small additional cash tip directly to your waiter is still warmly received, as service charges often go to management rather than staff. Always carry small denomination notes for this purpose.
Hotel tipping in Egypt is expected. Leave EGP 20–50 per night for housekeeping, and tip daily rather than at the end of your stay, as staff may rotate. Tip porters EGP 20–50 per bag. For a concierge who organises tours, drivers, or restaurant bookings, EGP 50–150 is appropriate. Pool and beach attendants appreciate EGP 10–20 for setting up or fetching items.
Always negotiate the fare before getting into a taxi, or ensure the meter is running — metered taxis are the safer option. A 10% tip on the agreed fare is appreciated but not strictly required. For longer journeys, drivers who provide good guidance or wait for you deserve EGP 20–50 extra. Uber operates in Cairo and provides metered pricing with in-app tipping.
Small tips are expected frequently — for helpers, guides, drivers, and anyone providing a service. Carry a supply of EGP 10, 20, and 50 notes for easy tipping throughout the day.
For a 300 EGP restaurant bill, a 30–45 EGP tip is standard. For a porter with two bags, 40–100 EGP is appropriate.
Always carry small denomination notes — most service workers cannot easily make change, so having EGP 10–50 bills on hand makes tipping smooth.