Tipping is a universal practice, but the customs and expectations around it can vary greatly depending on where you are in the world. While some countries make tipping mandatory, others see it as a gesture of goodwill, and some don’t expect tips at all. Navigating the tipping culture of a foreign country can be tricky, but understanding the local norms can make your travel experience smoother—and avoid any awkwardness with service staff.
If you’re heading abroad and want to get your tipping right, here’s a guide to help you know when, where, and how much to tip in different parts of the world, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
1. United States: Tipping Is Part of the Culture
In the U.S., tipping is an essential part of many workers’ income, particularly in the service and hospitality industries. While a service charge is often included at fine dining restaurants, it’s still expected to leave a tip, especially for servers who rely heavily on gratuities. 
How Much to Tip:
- Restaurants: 15-20% of the total bill, before tax. For exceptional service, you can go higher (25% or more).
- Taxis: 10-15% of the fare.
- Hotel Staff: $1-$2 per night for housekeeping, $1 per bag for bellhops, and $2-$5 for room service.
- Tour Guides: $10-$20 per person for a day tour.
Tip: In the U.S., not tipping is considered rude, and leaving less than the expected amount can be seen as disrespectful, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
2. Japan: Tipping Is Uncommon and Often Unwanted
In Japan, tipping is not part of the culture. In fact, it can even be seen as insulting. Service in Japan is generally so professional that workers believe their job is to serve to the best of their ability without expecting extra compensation.
How Much to Tip:
- Restaurants: Tipping is not expected. Service is included in the price, and attempting to tip can lead to confusion.
- Taxis: Tipping is not practiced, and drivers will likely refuse any tip.
- Hotel Staff: There’s no tipping culture in Japan, even for hotel porters or housekeepers.
Tip: Instead of tipping, showing gratitude with a polite “arigato” (thank you) is highly appreciated. A small gift from your home country is a good alternative if you feel compelled to show appreciation.
3. France: Service Charges Are Included, But Tips Are Appreciated
In France, service charges (service compris) are typically included in restaurant bills, but leaving a small tip for good service is a kind gesture. Unlike in the U.S., tips in France are not mandatory but are still appreciated, especially in higher-end restaurants and cafés.
How Much to Tip:
- Restaurants: If the service charge is already included, rounding up the bill by a few euros or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is appropriate.
- Taxis: 5-10% of the fare, or rounding up to the nearest euro.
- Hotel Staff: €1-2 per night for housekeeping, €1 per bag for bellhops.
Tip: While not compulsory, tipping is a way to show appreciation for good service. Just keep in mind that over-tipping is not necessary in France, as it can be considered excessive.
4. Italy: Tipping Is Optional, But It’s a Nice Touch
In Italy, service charges (coperto) are often included in restaurant bills, particularly in tourist areas. However, leaving a tip is still a sign of appreciation for good service, especially in more upscale places or if the service has been excellent.
How Much to Tip:
- Restaurants: If the service charge is included, a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated. If service is not included, leave a 10% tip.
- Taxis: Rounding up the fare or leaving a tip of €1-2.
- Hotel Staff: €1 per night for housekeeping and a couple of euros for porters.
Tip: Tipping in Italy is more about showing appreciation than following strict guidelines. Don’t feel pressured to leave large tips, especially in more casual settings.
5. Mexico: Tipping Is Expected, Especially for Service Workers
In Mexico, tipping is an important part of the culture, particularly in the hospitality and service industries. Workers in restaurants, hotels, and taxis rely heavily on tips to supplement their wages.
How Much to Tip:
- Restaurants: 10-15% of the total bill. In tourist areas, 15% is common, but in smaller, local places, 10% is more than enough.
- Taxis: Round up to the nearest peso or leave a 10% tip.
- Hotel Staff: $1-2 USD per night for housekeeping, $1 per bag for bellhops.
Tip: Tipping generously in Mexico is not only customary but also appreciated, especially in more touristy areas where service staff may depend on it.
6. United Kingdom: Tipping Is Not Mandatory, But It’s Welcome
Tipping in the UK is often more understated compared to places like the U.S. While service charges are sometimes added, it’s not usually expected to leave a large tip. However, tipping is common in restaurants and cafes, especially for good service.
How Much to Tip:
- Restaurants: 10-15% if service charge is not included. If a service charge is already added (especially in upscale restaurants), there’s no need to tip extra unless you’re exceptionally pleased with the service.
- Taxis: 10% or rounding up to the nearest pound.
- Hotel Staff: £1-2 per night for housekeeping, £1-2 per bag for porters.
Tip: In the UK, tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. The service charge (often around 12-15%) in restaurants is usually shared among all staff.
7. Australia: Tipping Is Not Expected, But It’s Appreciated
Australia doesn’t have a strong tipping culture, as workers in the service industry are generally paid a fair wage. However, as a visitor, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip will be welcomed.
How Much to Tip:
- Restaurants: 5-10% if service is not included, though it’s perfectly fine not to leave a tip.
- Taxis: Rounding up to the nearest dollar is common, or a 10% tip for exceptional service.
- Hotel Staff: $1-2 per night for housekeeping.
Tip: While not expected, tipping is a kind gesture, particularly for excellent service or when staying in high-end hotels.
8. Middle East: Tipping Can Vary, But It’s Generally Expected
In countries across the Middle East, tipping is generally appreciated and can be a significant part of a worker’s income, particularly in countries like the UAE, Egypt, and Jordan. However, tipping practices vary, and it’s essential to be aware of the local customs.
How Much to Tip:
- Restaurants: 10-15% of the bill, especially in more upscale restaurants. In some countries like the UAE, a service charge may already be added to the bill, but tipping on top of that is appreciated.
- Taxis: Round up to the nearest dirham or leave a 10% tip.
- Hotel Staff: AED 5-10 per night for housekeeping, and AED 5-10 per bag for bellhops.
Tip: In tourist-heavy areas, tipping is often expected, but it’s not as mandatory in more local or rural areas. Always check if service charges have been included.
9. United Arab Emirates (UAE): Tipping Is Appreciated
In the UAE, tipping is customary and generally appreciated across various service sectors. While service charges are often included in bills at restaurants and hotels, leaving an additional tip is a common practice, especially for good service. Tipping in the UAE is seen as a way to acknowledge excellent service, particularly in hotels, restaurants, and when using taxis or other services.
How Much to Tip:
- Restaurants: A 10% tip is typical, especially if a service charge hasn’t been included. In higher-end restaurants, 15% or more is often expected.
- Taxis: Rounding up the fare or leaving a 10% tip is appreciated.
- Hotel Staff: AED 5-10 per night for housekeeping, and AED 5-10 per bag for bellhops.
- Tour Guides: AED 20-50 per day for guided tours, depending on the length and quality of the service.
Tip: In the UAE, tipping is a way of showing appreciation for quality service, particularly in the hospitality and tourism sectors. While not mandatory, it is widely expected and gladly received by service workers.
Tipping Is a Global Gesture—But Customs Vary
Tipping abroad can be a bit of a minefield, but understanding the local norms will help you avoid any awkwardness and ensure that you show your appreciation in the right way. In countries like the U.S., tipping is vital, while in places like Japan, it may be seen as unnecessary. Whether you’re leaving a few coins or a generous tip, knowing the proper amount to give will help you respect
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