Spotlight: Supporting Staff During Ramadan

As we approach Ramadan, it’s important for businesses to understand how they can support their staff during this period.  

Muslims welcome Ramadan as an opportunity for self-reflection and spiritual improvement, and as a means to grow in moral excellence. This period is a time for spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and acts of charity for Muslims.  

This spotlight article will outline what and when Ramadan is, its significance, and how organisations can support Muslim employees during this period.  

Supporting Staff During Ramadan

What is Ramadan? 

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered the holiest month for Muslims around the world. It is observed by fasting from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs during daylight hours. Other acts of worship such as prayer, reading the Qur’an and charity are also encouraged during the holy month.

When is Ramadan?

The start and end of Ramadan are determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, so the exact dates can vary by one or two days depending on geographical location.  

In 2025, Ramadan is predicted on the evening of Friday 28 February 2025, and will end on the evening of Sunday 30 March 2025, with the exact dates contingent upon the sighting of the moon. 

Origin and Significance  

Ramadan commemorates the month when the Qur’an, the holy book of Islam, was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

The Five Pillars are the core beliefs and practices of Islam. Fasting, known as sawm, is one of the Five Pillars and is mandatory for all adult Muslims, with exceptions for those who are pregnant, unwell, travelling, menstruating, or elderly.  

Alongside fasting, Muslims dedicate more time to prayer, reading the Qur’an, and engaging in acts of kindness and almsgiving, the act of giving money, food, or other material goods to people in need. 

Why is Ramadan Important?  

Ramadan is not just a religious observance but a time for community, gratitude, and self-improvement. It fosters a sense of unity among Muslims worldwide and encourages reflection, empathy for those in need, and making their actions purposeful and selfless. 

For Muslims in the workplace, observing Ramadan can involve balancing fasting, altered sleep patterns, and additional religious commitments, such as attending nightly prayers (taraweeh). Recognising and supporting employees during this month can enhance inclusivity and mutual respect in the workplace. 

Supporting Muslim Employees During Ramadan 

Workplaces can take simple but meaningful steps to accommodate and support Muslim employees during Ramadan: 

  • Flexible Work Arrangements: Offer flexibility in working hours to help employees manage pre-dawn meals (suhoor) and evening breaking of the fast (iftar). 
  • Leave Requests: The last ten days of Ramadan are considered the most sacred of the month and so requests for leave should take this into consideration.  
  • Prayer Spaces: Ensure that quiet spaces are available for prayer during the day. 
  • Awareness and Education: Educate colleagues about Ramadan to foster understanding. This can include sharing resources or hosting information sessions. 
  • Be Mindful of Meetings and Social Events: Avoid scheduling conferences, team lunches, or events around food and drink during daylight hours. 
  • Encourage Open Conversations: Create a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their needs. 

Everyone will have a different relationship and approach to their faith. Be mindful not to assume the needs of your team members, instead cultivate meaningful connections and provide opportunities where they can openly and safely discuss their needs with you.