Spa Gratuity Guide: How Much to Tip in Dubai

If you’ve booked a massage or any spa service in Dubai, one of the first questions on your mind is probably the tip. Unlike restaurants, there’s no set rule, but locals and expats follow a few easy guidelines that keep everything smooth.

Typical Tip Percentages for Different Treatments

For a standard one‑hour massage, most people add 10‑15 % of the bill. If the therapist went above and beyond – extra pressure points, a longer session, or a personalized blend of oils – you can bump it up to 20 %.

Thai massage is a bit different because it’s more physically demanding. In Dubai, guests usually tip 15‑20 % for a Thai session. The extra effort the therapist puts in makes the higher tip feel natural.

Specialty services like a Moroccan bath, reflexology, or a luxury VIP spa suite often come with higher price tags, and a 15‑20 % tip is standard. If you’re staying at a boutique hotel and the spa is part of the property, some guests combine the spa tip with the hotel bell‑boy tip (usually AED 10‑20) to keep things simple.

When and How to Give Your Tip

Cash is king in most Dubai spas. Handing the therapist a few dirhams at the end avoids any confusion about percentages. If you prefer card, check whether the POS system lets you add a tip before it prints the receipt – many places have a quick “Add Tip” button.

Don’t forget to consider service charge. Some upscale resorts include a 10 % service charge in the bill. If that’s the case, you can still add a small cash tip (5‑10 %) if the therapist gave exceptional care.

Timing matters too. Wait until the session is fully over, the therapist has helped you sit up, and you’re about to leave the treatment room. That’s the moment most locals tip, and it feels natural to the staff.

One quick tip: Carry a small bundle of low‑denomination notes in your wallet. It makes the hand‑over smooth and avoids scrambling for change at the front desk.

Beyond the tip, a few etiquette basics go a long way. Arrive on time, keep your phone on silent, and respect any modesty rules the spa has. A simple “Thank you” and a smile leave a lasting positive impression.

Finally, if you’re budgeting, factor the tip into your total cost. A 1‑hour massage in Dubai typically runs AED 300‑500, so plan on an extra AED 30‑100 for the tip. Knowing the numbers ahead of time means no surprise at checkout.

With these pointers, you’ll feel confident about tipping, avoid awkward moments, and help keep the service level high for everyone. Enjoy your relaxation, and let the tip be the easy part of the experience.