Hotel Rate Check
Hotel local taxes and pay-at-hotel charges explained
The price you see online is not always the full cost of a stay. Many destinations add local taxes or fees that the hotel collects directly at check-in or check-out. Here is what they are and how to factor them in.
Common pay-at-hotel charges
These include city or tourism taxes (a per-night charge set by local government), resort or facility fees, and deposits for incidentals. They are often not included in the online room price and are payable directly to the hotel.
The Dubai Tourism Dirham
In Dubai, hotels charge a Tourism Dirham — a per-room, per-night fee — usually paid at the hotel at check-out. It is a good example of a charge that does not appear in the headline price but adds to the true total.
How to compare the true cost
To compare two prices fairly, add any pay-at-hotel charges to each online price. A rate that looks cheaper online can end up dearer once local taxes are included.
How we handle it
Where we are aware of taxes or fees payable at the hotel, we show them before you pay, so you see the true total rather than just the room price.
Frequently asked questions
Why are these charges not in the online price?
Many local taxes and resort fees are set to be collected by the hotel directly, so they sit outside the online room rate.
Do I pay them when I book or at the hotel?
Usually at the hotel, at check-in or check-out. We flag them before you pay where we know they apply.
Are these charges refundable?
Local taxes and fees are set by the hotel or authority and are generally payable regardless. Check the specific terms for your stay.
Want the true total before you book?
Search the hotel and dates and book online — the room price and any pay-at-hotel charges we are aware of are shown before you pay.
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