Supporting colleagues during Ramadan

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is one of the most sacred times of the year for Muslims. It marks the period when the Qur’an was first revealed and holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims around the world.

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam—fundamental principles that guide Islamic practice. However, not all Muslims are required to fast. Those who are unwell, menstruating, traveling, or facing other valid exemptions are not expected to do so. Their faith remains just as meaningful, and they can observe Ramadan in other ways, such as through prayer, charitable acts, and community engagement.

What is Fasting?

Fasting is more than simply abstaining from food and drink (including water); it is a form of spiritual purification. It encourages self-reflection, patience, and devotion, allowing individuals to quiet bodily desires and nourish the soul. Across the world, millions of Muslims fast during Ramadan, which naturally influences their daily routines—including their experiences at work.

For many, Ramadan is a time of heightened spiritual connection, while for others, it provides an opportunity to deepen their faith in a way they may not throughout the rest of the year. This journey is deeply personal, and it is important for employers to be mindful and supportive of each individual’s experience.

How to support colleagues and employees during Ramadan

Encourage Open Conversations

• Let colleagues know you’re supportive and open to learning about their experiences.
• Create an inclusive environment where they feel comfortable discussing their needs.
• Don’t assume the individual needs of each of your colleagues or employees. Create an open conversation with employees where you can learn about Ramadan and determine how you can support them or make them feel more comfortable. 

 Offer Flexible Work Arrangements

• If possible, allow flexible working hours so colleagues can start earlier and finish earlier.
• Consider adjusting meeting times to avoid late afternoons when energy levels may be lower. 
• If possible, allow colleagues to work from home.

 Reduce Physical Demands

• Avoid scheduling physically intense activities or tasks requiring excessive exertion.
• Be understanding if colleagues need to rest or take a break.

Schedule Meetings Thoughtfully

• Try to arrange key meetings in the morning when energy levels are higher.
• Keep meetings concise and avoid scheduling them around Iftar time (sunset, when they break their fast).

Be Considerate of Social Events

• If planning workplace events with food (like team lunches), consider scheduling them after Ramadan or offering alternative ways for everyone to participate.
• If a work gathering includes food, invite fasting colleagues but understand if they prefer to decline.

Offer a Quiet Prayer Space

• If your workplace doesn’t have one, consider designating a quiet space for prayer or reflection.
• To ensure colleagues aren’t lugging prayers mats to and from chambers/the office, consider buying some to store at the office for use during Ramadan and beyond. 

Acknowledge and Celebrate Ramadan & Eid

• A simple “Ramadan Mubarak” (Blessed Ramadan) or “Ramadan Kareem” (Generous Ramadan) is a kind gesture.
• Closer to the end of Ramadan, acknowledge Eid al-Fitr (expected 30-31 March) by saying “Eid Mubarak” and being understanding if employees request time off.

Respect Fasting

• Take a little time to learn about Ramadan and understand that fasting colleagues will abstain from food, drink, and smoking from pre-dawn to sunset.
• Avoid offering food or drinks directly to fasting colleagues, but don’t feel the need to hide your meals either—just be mindful.