Ramadan 2024 Guide: Dos And Don'ts During The Holy Month

The Holy Month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, holds significant importance and during this sacred time, Muslims worldwide observe fasting from sunrise to sunset, refraining from eating, drinking, and smoking. The Holy Month of Ramadan also serves as a reminder of divine guidance and spiritual reflection. And for non-Muslims wondering how to engage during Ramadan, Connector has compiled a list of dos and don'ts to observe during this holy period.

Dos And Don'ts For Dressing During Ramadan 

During Ramadan, it's best to practice modesty. While there aren't specific rules for how to dress, it's important to be considerate of your surroundings. For instance, if you're visiting a mall, park or public space where many people are fasting, it's respectful to cover your knees and shoulders. Avoid wearing inappropriate or tight-fitting clothing in public areas, remember, modesty is a must during this Holy Month. 

Dos And Don'ts At Workplace During The Holy Month 

Dos:

1. Be thoughtful of fasting individuals; avoid scheduling meetings close to prayer times or late in the afternoon.
2. Opt for mid-morning conferences or ask if virtual meetings are preferable during Ramadan.
3. Respect the fasting period; abstain from eating or drinking in office during daytime, except in designated areas.
4. Strengthen business relationships by organising corporate Iftars for employees.
5. Help your colleagues if they are fasting and share the load if possible.

Don'ts:

1. Schedule meetings near prayer times or late afternoon, disrupting fasting schedules.
2. Refrain from offering food or drinks in meetings as a sign of respect to those fasting.
3. During online meetings, do not eat or drink while the camera is on to maintain respect for fasting individuals.
4. Avoid wearing revealing or short clothing.
5. Avoid unnecessary conversation with fasting employees as their mouths may be dry, and they cannot drink water.
6. Do not refuse invitations to Iftar gatherings; attending strengthens relationships and shows respect for the occasion.

Dos And Don'ts For Drinking And Eating In Public 

Dos:

1. Accept food and drink offered during Iftar as a sign of respect and friendliness.

Don'ts:

1. Abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum in public during daytime to show consideration for those fasting.
2. Avoid consuming water at the gym and private beaches during fasting hours.
3. Practice self-restraint when consuming food and beverages in your car, ensuring the interior is not visible.
4. If seen eating or drinking publicly by mistake, apologise and avoid repeating the error, as Ramadan emphasises patience and forgiveness.

Dos' And Don'ts On How To Behave Around Muslims During Ramadan 

Dos: 

1. Try fasting for a day to understand the experience of Muslim friends and colleagues.
2. Exchange Ramadan greetings, such as 'Ramadan Kareem', to show respect and goodwill.
3. Participate in charitable activities by donating to Ramadan camps and charity organisations.
4. Join Muslim colleagues for Iftar to break the fast together and experience Dubai's excellent Iftar offerings.
5. Consider attending an at-home Iftar or cooking Iftar meals with friends or family.

Don'ts: 

1. Avoid playing loud music or swearing in public, as it may offend those who are fasting.
2. Refrain from getting into arguments or fights, as Ramadan is a time of peace and serenity.
3. Avoid public displays of affection, as it can be considered inappropriate during Ramadan.
4. Be mindful of using strong language or making jokes that could be deemed inappropriate for fasting Muslims.
5. Use headphones instead of playing music loudly, especially during prayers or the call to prayer, out of respect for the Holy Month.

Ramadan Phrases To Know For The Holy Month 

• Suhoor: Before sunrise, Muslims eat suhoor to prepare for the day of fasting during Ramadan.
• Iftar: After sunset, Muslims break their fast with Iftar, typically starting with a date, and share this meal with family or community after the evening prayer.
• Zakat al-Fitr: Zakat al-Fitr, also known as the Charity of Breaking the Fast, is obligatory during Ramadan, reflecting the Islamic principle of charity to those in need.
• Eid al-Fitr: Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal, the 10th lunar month. Muslims celebrate with traditional festivities, including food, drink, and prayer.