Have you ever thought about how to support your colleagues and clients during Ramadan? As one of the most widely observed religious periods globally, Ramadan impacts millions of professionals across various industries. It is a time of fasting, reflection, and spiritual growth, and understanding its significance can help foster an inclusive and supportive workplace.
For businesses striving to create an environment of respect and belonging, small adjustments can make a significant impact. Whether through flexible work arrangements, mindful scheduling, or simply raising awareness, employers can demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity while ensuring employees remain engaged and productive.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and one of the most sacred times of the year for Muslims. It commemorates the month in which the Qur’an was revealed and is observed as a period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, refraining from food, drink (including water), and other physical needs as a form of spiritual discipline.
Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is an act of faith observed by millions worldwide. However, not all Muslims are required to fast—those who are unwell, pregnant, menstruating, travelling, or otherwise exempt may abstain from fasting while observing Ramadan in other meaningful ways, such as prayer, charity, and community service.
When is Ramadan in 2025?
Ramadan follows the Islamic lunar calendar, so its dates change each year. In 2025, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of 28 February and end on the evening of 30 March, depending on the sighting of the new moon. Muslims will fast from sunrise to sunset during this period, with fasting hours varying by location, ranging from 12 to 18 hours in different parts of the world. The last ten days of Ramadan are considered especially sacred, with many Muslims dedicating additional time to worship and reflection. Ramadan concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a festival of celebration, gratitude, and communal prayers.
How to Support Employees and Clients During Ramadan
With over 1.9 billion Muslims worldwide, Ramadan is a significant period for many employees, clients, and business partners. Whether your team is based locally or operates across global markets, understanding the impact of Ramadan and implementing thoughtful accommodations can foster an inclusive and supportive work environment.
Here are five professional strategies to support employees and clients during this period:
1. Optimise Meeting Schedules for Productivity
To ensure effective collaboration, consider scheduling critical meetings in the mid-morning, when energy levels are typically higher. Avoid late-afternoon meetings, as these may coincide with lower energy periods for fasting employees or clients. Where possible, streamline discussions to maximise efficiency and minimise unnecessary meetings.
2. Implement Flexible Working Hours
Where operationally feasible, offer flexibility in work hours to accommodate employees who may prefer an earlier start and finish to align with their fasting schedule. Remote or hybrid work models can further support productivity while allowing fasting employees to manage their time effectively.
3. Adjust Business Travel and Event Planning
If travel is necessary during Ramadan, consider the impact of long journeys and time zone differences on fasting employees. Where possible, schedule travel at times that allow for sufficient rest and hydration outside fasting hours. Additionally, if organising corporate events, ensure that meal offerings and schedules are mindful of Iftar (the breaking of the fast at sunset).
4. Be Mindful of Food and Drink in the Workplace
Creating a workplace environment that is considerate of fasting employees fosters respect and inclusion. Avoid scheduling business meetings over breakfast, lunch, or coffee breaks, as fasting employees will be unable to participate. If workplace events include food, ensure there are options available for those breaking their fast at Iftar.
Encourage colleagues to be mindful of eating and drinking in shared spaces by exercising discretion, particularly in close working environments. Providing quiet spaces for prayer or rest further demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and cultural awareness.
5. Promote Awareness and Inclusive Communication
Recognising Ramadan in internal communications and expressing well wishes (“Ramadan Mubarak” or “Ramadan Kareem”) fosters a sense of belonging. Providing educational resources or organising awareness sessions can enhance cultural competency within teams, reinforcing an inclusive workplace culture that values diverse religious and cultural practices. Lastly, engage with your colleagues and clients simply through dialogue to understand what they are experiencing during Ramadan. A conversation can go a long way in fostering understanding and making individuals feel seen and supported. Ask if there’s anything you can do to accommodate their needs, and be open to learning about their experiences.
Useful Resources for More Insights
For further reading and expert insights on how to support employees and clients during Ramadan, explore these resources:
As Harvard Business Review notes, “Inclusive workplaces drive engagement and innovation by making employees feel valued and respected.” Organisations that proactively accommodate their employees not only demonstrate cultural awareness but also strengthen employee engagement and client relationships.
By implementing these professional considerations, companies can cultivate a more inclusive and supportive work environment, ensuring that both employees and clients feel acknowledged and respected during this important month.
