Money & Payments in Dahab

Good to Know

• In Egypt, including Dahab, tipping (called 'baksheesh') is deeply embedded in service culture and is considered part of workers' income, especially in tourism and hospitality. Always carry small EGP denominations.
• Most restaurants in Egypt include a 10–15% service charge on the bill, but an additional 5–10% cash tip left on the table is appreciated and ensures the server benefits directly.
• Dahab is a Red Sea resort town with good ATM access in tourist areas. Unlike more remote parts of Egypt, you'll have reasonable access to cash withdrawals.
• When using ATMs, always decline the ATM's currency conversion offer and select 'charge in EGP' to avoid markups; use your card's native exchange rate instead.
• It's wise to notify your home bank before traveling so they don't block your card for international transactions. Cards are used mainly at larger hotels and restaurants, not small shops.
• Tipping culture varies by service: restaurants 10–15%, hotel housekeeping 100–200 EGP per day, tour guides 100–300 EGP per day, and taxi drivers round up or add 10–20 EGP.
• USD and EUR are also accepted by some tourist businesses in Dahab, but exchange rates are unfavorable; use EGP for better value.