Ramadan in the Workplace: Celebrating with Respect and Inclusivity

As February comes to a close, millions around the world will begin observing Ramadan, a sacred month of fasting, reflection, and community in Islam. This year, Ramadan starts on Friday, February 28, and ends on Sunday, March 30. For many Muslim employees, it’s a time of deep spiritual commitment, marked by fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayer, and acts of kindness.

So, how can workplaces foster an environment of support and inclusivity during this important month? Whether you’re familiar with Ramadan or just learning about it, here’s a quick guide to acknowledging and celebrating it in the workplace with thoughtfulness and respect.

What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered the holiest. Muslims fast from food, drink, and other physical needs from sunrise (Suhoor) to sunset (Iftar) as a way to cultivate self-discipline, empathy, and gratitude.

Fun Fact: Did you know that fasting during Ramadan follows the lunar cycle? That means the start and end dates shift about 10–11 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar!
During the evenings, Muslims gather for Iftar (breaking the fast), often beginning with dates and water, followed by a meal shared with family and friends. Many also attend special nightly prayers called Taraweeh, reciting from the Qur’an.

How Can Workplaces Show Support?
Creating an inclusive workplace where employees feel seen and respected during Ramadan doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few easy ways to acknowledge and support colleagues observing the month:

Acknowledge, But Don’t Assume
It’s perfectly okay to wish your colleagues a “Ramadan Mubarak” (Blessed Ramadan)” or “Ramadan Kareem (Generous Ramadan)”—simple yet meaningful greetings! But remember, not every Muslim may be fasting due to personal, health, or travel reasons, so don’t assume or ask why someone is or isn’t fasting.

Be Flexible with Schedules
Since fasting employees may wake up early for Suhoor and stay up late for prayers, consider:

• Offering flexible work hours (earlier start, earlier departure)
• Adjusting lunch meetings so fasting employees aren’t sitting through meal-based discussions
• Providing remote or hybrid work options where possible

Fun Fact: Some companies in Muslim-majority countries shorten work hours during Ramadan to support employees’ observance!

Be Mindful of Meal Times

While fasting employees don’t expect non-fasting coworkers to change their eating habits, being considerate can go a long way. If possible:

• Avoid scheduling team lunches where a fasting colleague might feel excluded
• Provide an alternative break room if the usual lunch area is the only option for work breaks

Encourage Education and Inclusion
Ramadan is a great opportunity to celebrate cultural diversity in the workplace! Employers can:

• Share an educational email or post about Ramadan
• Host an Iftar gathering or support an employee-led event
• Respect leave requests for Eid al-Fitr (the celebration marking the end of Ramadan)

Fun Fact: Eid al-Fitr is often called the “Festival of Sweets” because of all the delicious desserts shared during the celebration!

Small Acts, Big Impact
Inclusivity isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about small, meaningful actions that show understanding and respect. Whether it’s a friendly “Ramadan Mubarak” or an adjusted meeting schedule, thoughtful recognition of Ramadan helps create a welcoming workplace for all.

So as February 28 arrives, take a moment to acknowledge this special month with your Muslim colleagues—it’s a small effort with a big impact on workplace culture!

Ramadan Mubarak!