Is It Common To Tip In Restaurants And Services In Uzbekistan?

Tipping practices in Uzbekistan reflect a blend of traditional Central Asian hospitality customs and more recently adopted international practices. Understanding local tipping expectations helps travelers navigate social situations appropriately while ensuring service providers are fairly compensated.

Restaurant tipping:

• Tipping was not traditionally common in Uzbek culture but has become more expected in tourist areas
• In upscale restaurants and those catering to international visitors, a 5-10% tip is increasingly expected
• In local, family-run establishments, tipping remains less common but is appreciated
• Some higher-end restaurants may include a service charge, so check your bill before adding extra

Hotel services:

• Bellhops/porters: 5,000-10,000 Som per bag is appropriate
• Housekeeping: 10,000-20,000 Som per day left in the room upon departure
• Concierge: 20,000-50,000 Som for special assistance or arrangements

Tour guides and drivers:

• Local guides: 50,000-100,000 Som per day for good service
• Drivers: 30,000-50,000 Som per day for multi-day tours
• For exceptional service that goes beyond expectations, more generous tips are appropriate

Other services:

• Taxi drivers: Rounding up the fare is sufficient; formal tipping is not expected
• Bathroom attendants: 1,000-2,000 Som where services are provided
• Coat check: 2,000-5,000 Som

When tipping, it's best to use local currency rather than foreign currency. While some service providers in tourist areas may accept dollars or euros, the local currency is always preferred and more practical for recipients.

In Uzbek culture, hospitality is highly valued, and service providers often go to great lengths to ensure visitors have a positive experience. While tipping should reflect the quality of service received, it's worth noting that wages in the service industry are generally low, making tips an important supplement to income for many workers.

The tipping culture continues to evolve as tourism develops in Uzbekistan, with practices becoming more aligned with international standards in major tourist destinations while remaining more flexible in off-the-beaten-path locations.