During Ramadan, Muslim colleagues and partners fast from dawn to sunset for 29–30 days, often start work earlier, and may be tired in the afternoon. Simple courtesy helps: avoid scheduling lunch meetings, plan important calls for the morning, and be flexible around iftar (sunset). Ramadan 2027 is expected to start around 8 February 2027.
What are the key parts of Ramadan?
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Sawm | Fasting from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib) – no food, drink or smoking |
| Suhoor | Pre-dawn meal |
| Iftar | Meal to break the fast at sunset, usually starting with dates and water |
| Taraweeh | Special night prayers held in mosques |
| Laylat al-Qadr | The Night of Power, in the last ten nights of the month |
| Zakat al-Fitr | Charity given before the Eid prayer |
| Eid al-Fitr | Festival marking the end of Ramadan |
For a fuller explanation, read Ramadan explained.
How can you be considerate at work?
- Schedule meetings in the morning when energy is higher.
- Avoid lunch meetings; if food is served, don’t pressure anyone to eat.
- Allow flexibility near sunset so colleagues can break their fast.
- Expect shorter official working hours in many Muslim-majority countries.
- Greet with “Ramadan Mubarak” or “Ramadan Kareem”, and “Eid Mubarak” at the end.
What should businesses plan for?
- Slower replies and shorter hours during the month, and public holidays for Eid al-Fitr.
- Higher demand for dates, juices, dairy drinks and snacks for iftar and gifting.
- Early ordering: importers usually place Ramadan beverage orders 2–3 months ahead.
- HALAL certification is expected for food and drinks.
Juices popular at iftar include mango, orange, tamarind, apricot and vegetable drinks. See ACM’s vegetable drinks and fruit juices, and ideas for a healthy iftar menu.
Who does not have to fast?
Children, the elderly, the sick, travellers, and pregnant, breastfeeding or menstruating women are exempt. Missed days may be made up later or compensated through charity.
Frequently asked questions
Can I eat in front of a colleague who is fasting?
Usually yes; most people do not mind. Being discreet and not offering food is a kind gesture.
When does Ramadan 2027 start and end?
It is expected around 8 February to 9–10 March 2027, confirmed by moon sighting.
What is a good gift during Ramadan?
Dates, sweets, and juice gift boxes are popular choices for iftar.
What happens at Eid al-Fitr?
A morning prayer followed by family visits, festive meals, new clothes and gifts, usually over 1–3 days of holiday.
