Understanding Ramadan: Etiquette Tips for Non-Muslims
Curious about how to show respect during Ramadan even if you're not Muslim? Discover these 10 simple etiquette tips to support your fasting friends and learn more about this important Islamic tradition.
There are over 8 billion people in the world, with around a quarter of them fasting from sunrise to sunset every day for an entire month. It's Ramadan, the holiest month in the Muslim calendar, running from March 10 to April 19 in 2024.
If you're not Muslim but want to be thoughtful during Ramadan, there's no need to worry. You don't have to do anything special to show consideration for your fasting friends in the United States or around the world.
But you can earn some cool points if you follow these 10 tips:
- You can totally eat in front of us …
During the 30 days of Ramadan, Muslims worldwide will refrain from eating and drinking from dawn until sunset. However, this should not disrupt your regular business activities. (Just ignore the hunger pangs.)
But it is advisable not to plan any work lunches during this time.
If you need to organize a brown-bag lunch, go ahead and do it. However, don't feel guilty if some people choose not to participate, just like how a vegetarian friend might feel at a churrascaria. The same goes for a happy-hour mixer - if your Muslim co-worker decides to skip it, be understanding.
A boy attends the early morning prayer at Al Noor Mosque in Sharjah, UAE.
A boy attends the early morning prayer atAl Noor Mosquein Sharjah, UAE.
Francois Nel/Getty Images
- You don’t have to fast with us …
You can if you want to see what it feels like. But it’s not going to hurt our feelings – even if we’re best friends.
- … but you can join us for Iftar
Iftar is the breaking of the fast after sundown. We like to make it a big communal meal. You should come.
A Muslim woman walks on "sea of sands" as she prepares for prayer at Parangkusumo Beach in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
A Muslim woman walks on "sea of sands" as she prepares for prayer at Parangkusumo Beach in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
Ulet Ifansasti/Getty Images
5.You don’t have to know when it begins …
Ramadan isn’t like Christmas or Thanksgiving, where the dates are fixed. It moves around because the Islamic calendar is based on the moon. The start of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the new moon, so the dates vary each year.
But remember, during Ramadan, it's important to be a little flexible.
Determining when Ramadan begins is a traditional process: sighting the moon with your own eyes, although there are now apps available for this purpose. So, if a co-worker asks to adjust their work hours during Ramadan, consider being flexible.
Young Muslims devotees take a selfie before Friday prayers to mark the end of Ramadan in Manila, Philippines.
Young Muslims devotees take a selfie before Friday prayers to mark the end of Ramadan in Manila, Philippines.
TED ALJIBE/AFP/Getty Images
7.We’ll still go for coffee with you …
No, we can’t drink. Not even water. But we’ll walk with you if you want to take a break.
- … but we may keep our distance
One word: Halitosis. You try not eating or drinking for the entire day. That’s why we’re standing a foot away from you when we talk.
A Muslim man breathes fire during a game of fire football, known as "bola api."
A Muslim man breathes fire during a game of fire football, known as "bola api."
Ulet Ifansasti/Getty Images
- You can say ‘Ramadan Mubarak’ …
There's no major controversy about saying "Happy Ramadan" to your Muslim coworker. They will appreciate the gesture.
But please avoid making comments like, "I should fast too. I need to lose weight."
Ramadan’s not about that. Plus, one of Ramadan’s side effects is obesity (it’s all that post-sundown overeating).
This story was originally published in 2019 and has been updated.
Editor's P/S:
The article provides thoughtful guidance on respecting Muslim colleagues during Ramadan, a period of fasting and spiritual reflection. It emphasizes the importance of being considerate by not eating or drinking in front of fasting individuals and understanding their need for flexible work schedules. The article also encourages non-Muslims to attend Iftar, the evening meal that breaks the fast, as a sign of support and camaraderie.
Understanding the nuances of Ramadan, such as the fact that its start and end dates vary based on the lunar calendar, is crucial for creating an inclusive work environment. Additionally, being aware of the potential for halitosis due to fasting and respecting the personal space of fasting individuals demonstrates sensitivity and empathy. By following these guidelines, non-Muslims can show their support for Muslim colleagues and foster a respectful and welcoming workplace during this sacred month.
