What is the recommended tipping amount? This is a question that may cross your mind each time you receive excellent service at a restaurant, spa, or even the grocery store from a person packing your groceries.
Or perhaps you are one of the many millions of tourists who come to Dubai each year and are unsure whether the city’s tipping customs are similar to your own.
VisitDubai.com, Dubai’s official tourism website, offers guests helpful instructions on how to handle these social situations.
What is the culture of tipping?
According to studies, there are cultural differences around tipping, including whether or not to tip and the right amount. In nations like the UAE, where there are many different nationalities, this culture gets even more complicated.
According to Visit Dubai, while there are no set rules on tipping and how much you tip varies from profession to profession and is also largely down to personal preference. “It is customary to tip in most cases, but it certainly isn’t compulsory,” the website states.
Here is a ready reckoner shared by Visit Dubai, which you can refer to.
Hospitality staff
Waitstaff – 10% to 15% of the waiting crew is normal, but this varies depending on the level of service. It may also be sufficient to round up your bill to the nearest whole number.
Spa and salon therapists – Therapists at spas and salons are paid Dh5 or 10% to 15% of the treatment cost, depending on how extensive or brief the therapy was.
Bellboys and valet drivers – Dh5 or more for bigger or several suitcases of luggage.
Concierges – Unlike in some other nations, tipping concierges in hotels in Dubai is not traditional. They are more than happy to offer advice and help you make reservations without charging you extra.
Tours and transport
Taxi drivers – Dh5 to 10, or rounding up to the nearest figure.
Tour guides – Visit Dubai states: “After enjoying a well-organized, informative tour of the city, or after the completion of a desert safari, you can certainly show your appreciation to the driver and/or guide. Although some nationalities tip 20 percent of the total price or Dh100 for a full day’s outing, anything you deem fair to show how much you enjoyed the trip will be well received.”
Airport porters – Dh5 to Dh10.
Yacht crews – Five to 15 percent of the base charter fee, depending on the length of the trip and the type of boat. Visit Dubai states: “Cash should usually be handed to the captain at the end of your voyage, as he will then distribute the money to his crew, some of whom might not be visible to you but nonetheless ensure you get the best possible service.”
Convenience services
Delivery drivers – You can round up the total to save the driver having to hunt for change. Additionally, delivery apps provide a cashless tipping option for the driver.
Supermarket packer – You can give the packer some spare change in exchange for packing your groceries. You can tip them an additional Dh5 to Dh10 if they help you carry your bags to the car.
Also Read: Visiting the UAE? Check out these 11 types of visas for visitors and tourists
