How much should guests tip hotel staff in Egypt, and are small gifts appropriate?

For housekeeping, leave the equivalent of US$2–5 per day in a visible spot, preferably daily because the staff roster can change. A note marked “Housekeeping” helps avoid confusion with forgotten cash.

A bellhop is usually tipped about US$1–2 for handling luggage, while small help around the pool or hotel grounds is around US$1. It is useful to carry small Egyptian-pound notes, since large bills can be difficult for staff to use.

At a hotel restaurant with table service, leave about 5–10% or a few small notes if a service charge is already included. At bars, the equivalent of US$1 per order—or a small tip at the end of the day for a regular bartender—is sufficient.

Chocolate, sunflower seeds, and other souvenirs are not a substitute for tips: staff may have different tastes, dietary restrictions, or nowhere to store food. If you want to give a gift, hand it personally to a staff member you know, alongside a small cash tip rather than leaving it at reception.