Ramadan at workplace: What to do and what not

The day begins as usual during the Holy Month of Ramadan, waking up for the Suhur and the prayer, followed by rushing out of your homes to the office.

Let’s look at the etiquettes to follow at the workplace during the Holy Month.

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 (10 AM  to 2 PM). And in case of any late meetings, keep in mind that your fasting colleagues/ business partners need to break their fast around 7 PM.
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.