Jump to main content
Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the UAE - GRAPESHISHA
GRAPESHISHA HOME PAGE
THE KNOWLEDGE
Jobs
Tourism
Culture
Housing
Life
The Country
Another View
Business
Definitions
THE NEWSLETTER
Archive
THE BLOG
Guide to UAE Blogs
HOLIDAYS
Flights
Hotels
GRAPESHISHA HOME PAGE
About Grapeshisha
Contact
Advertising
Link to Us
Terms & Conditions
 
 



Check out the Blog

 THE KNOWLEDGE
 LIFE IN DUBAI
TIPPING PRACTICES IN DUBAI


How much are you expected to tip when in the UAE? It's always a tricky question. Tip too much, and you waste money. Tip too little and you may get a grunt of disapproval. The fact of the matter is that many of those in the service sector who you may consider tipping are paid very badly indeed, and sometimes rely on tips just to get by. In some cases you may not even think that some of the services are required, but feel compelled to tip. However, tipping practices are similar to those any where else in the world. We recommend that you do tip, but in the right way.

In Dubai, restaurants, hotels and bars apply a service charge. That service charge is said to be pooled amongst the staff and split accordingly. Some believe that it is unlikely to end up with the waiter or waitress at some other places. So you don't have to give more, but if you do, give in cash. If no charge is included at a restaurant, add 10 per cent of the total to the bill. If the service or meal was good, you should tip more.

You can tip bellboys 5 or 10 Dirhams or so, as you might do so for valet parkers or porters. Taxi drivers don't expect a tip, but perhaps you should round up to the next 5 Dirhams, especially if you take a short journey in Abu Dhabi.  Tipping in bars is not usually expected but can get you speedier service. It might be worthwhile to do so if you actually have table service. The bag packers at supermarkets don't demand anything, but anything from a few coins to 5 Dirhams is worth giving. Places giving personal services such as salons or barbers do not expect a tip.

There has been some discussion regarding those who check your oil and fill your gas. It may be that they don't receive any of the tips that you give and this money goes to the gas station. If you do give anything, 5 Dirhams is acceptable.

When considering tipping, just bear in mind the personal situation of the people who are serving you. Some receive very little pay, and work very long hours. We tip when there is service with a smile, and the person makes an extra effort, because they deserve it!

Back to top


RELATED LINKS THAT YOU MAY FIND USEFUL

Common Scents
How to Tailor Clothes
How to buy Gold
Alcohol in Dubai

Advertisement



    Copyright 2005 - 2006  -  Grapeshisha.com  -  An insider's guide to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the United Arab Emirates -  Smoke it and See!