Ramadan dos and don'ts when you're in the workplace

Middle East News

For the Holy Month of Ramadan, Israa Shaheen shares etiquette tips you should observe in order to respect the local culture and maintain the spirit

Business During Ramadan

DO take into consideration the amended working hours before scheduling meetings.
DO schedule your meetings while people are still energetic and alert (10am to 2pm). And in case of any late meetings, keep in mind that your fasting colleagues/ business partners need to break their fast around 7pm.
DON'T schedule any meetings or hold events during prayer time.

Commuting

DO take into consideration the changes in the traffic patterns, due to the changes in working hours.
DO avoid driving close to Maghrib time (6.30pm to 7.15pm), since people will be rushing to break their fast. And keep in mind that they did not have anything to eat or drink since early morning, which will affect their concentration level.

Ramadan Greeting

Do wish your colleagues and business partners a blessed Ramadan by saying "Ramadan Kareem" or "Ramadan Mubarak".

While in Public

DON'T eat, drink and smoke in public during the daylight hours throughout the month of Ramadan. You will usually find designated areas for eating and drinking.
DO avoid eating and drinking in front of your Muslim colleagues. Instead, use the designated area to have your meal.
DON'T wear revealing clothing to your workplace during the month of Ramadan.
DO check the dress code before heading to any Ramadan tent for Iftar or Suhoor.
DON'T play music at work, use your headphones instead.

Iftar & Suhoor

DO make early reservations for business Iftar and Suhoor.
DO accept Iftar invitations, even if you are not fasting. The joint fast-breaking is a gesture of hospitality, so join in and enjoy the spirit.
DON'T arrive late when invited to a business Iftar. Make sure to arrive on time, even if you are not fasting.
DO hold a corporate gathering during Ramadan. Host a Suhoor instead of an Iftar, since Muslims are usually overwhelmed with Iftar invitations.

Manners Matter

DON'T lose your temper during fasting time. It's hot outside, and people are hungry and thirsty. Be patient!
DON'T ask anyone if they are fasting or not. Some Muslims do not fast during Ramadan, due to different reasons.
DO plan and execute CSR events during Ramadan. The Holy Month is the time for giving back to the society, so participate in charitable events and enrich the charity spirit.