Ramadan 2024 in UAE: Dos and Don'ts for non-Muslim Expats | ExpatWoman.com
 

Top 10 Tips for Expats During Ramadan in the UAE

Ramadan is the holiest time for Muslims living in the region - here are our tips for expats

Top 10 tips for expats during Ramadan

For non-Muslim expats living in the Middle East, here's our top tips!

The Holy Month of Ramadan occurs annually and lasts 30 days. It is the holiest time for Muslims in the UAE and region, and the month offers a great opportunity for non-Muslims and expats living here to immerse themselves in the traditions, culture, and cuisine of the country.

There's a lot of don'ts for everybody to follow during the Holy Month, and yes, life may alter for expats living here. So, to help get you orientated with the rules of Ramadan, here are our top 10 tips for expats during the Holy Month of Ramadan in Dubai and UAE.

1. Learn some Ramadan greetings

Embrace the Holy Month and make an effort to learn simple Ramadan greetings that you can say to your Muslim friends and colleagues.

"Ramadan Kareem", which means have a happy/generous Ramadan. "Ramadan Mubarak" translates as blessed Ramadan, and "Siyam Kareem" means blessed fasting.

Top 10 tips for expats during Ramadan

2. Don't eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public

During the Holy Month, Muslims must refrain from consuming food, drinking liquids, and smoking during daylight hours. These rules apply to non-Muslims and expats living here, too. As an expat, do not eat, drink or smoke in public during the day - or else risk offending someone, or worse, get in trouble with the police.

Where can non-Muslims eat and drink during Ramadan?

Instead, non-Muslim expats can eat and drink in food courts, restaurants, cafes, break rooms, other dining areas, or in the privacy of their own closed office or home.

3. Refrain from playing loud music

This includes in your home, at the beach, or even in your own home and back garden. Yes, you can play music, but be sure that nobody else can hear it outside of your car or home. If you're heading out, use headphones - but again, ensure the volume is lower enough that those around you can't hear your music blasting.

What should non Muslim expats do during Ramadan?

4. Avoid revealing or tight clothing

The UAE has a modest dress code, which is particularly enforced during the Holy Month. UAE residents and visitors should wear modest clothing, even if you're heading out for a night.

We have a guide on what to wear during Ramadan here for you.

5. Take note of your working hours

As per the UAE Labour Law, working hours should be shorter during the Holy Month of Ramadan. Employers must honour these laws and are required to reduce work hours by two hours per day, regardless of whether employees are Muslim or non-Muslim.

We have a complete guide on working hours during Ramadan for you here.

Ramadan tips for non Muslim expats in the UAE

6. Avoid driving at sunset where possible

At sunset, roads tend to be filled with drivers who are rushing home to break their fast at Iftar. Be mindful and patient while driving during Ramadan, as things can get a little hazardous, so extra caution is advised at all times.

7. Make reservations for dinner and Iftar

Throughout Ramadan, there's always a lot of activity come post-sunset. From Iftar gatherings to friends heading to the mall, or families heading out for quality time together. As a result, restaurants tend to be crowded so we advise booking in advance.

To help you find the best iftar dinners in Dubai this year, click here!

What should non Muslim expats avoid during Ramadan

8. Join in the community spirit

Even if you're non-Muslim, Ramadan offers a great time to get involved with culture and the community. Interact with friends, colleagues and your neighbours - find your nearest Ramadan Fridge for example, and join in practicing the values of tolerance, compassion, gratitude and charity.

9. Give to the poor and help the needy

Known as 'zakat' and 'sadaqah', charity and charitable acts are 1 of the 4 main common observances for Muslims during Ramadan. This after all, is the true spirit of Ramadan and small gestures can go a long way.

Join in and contribute to charitable causes happening throughout the month.

10. Try fasting for a day yourself

Sit there and wonder how your colleagues and friends are able to go a full day without eating and drinking? Try it for yourself.

We're sure it will enlighten you to the strength of those who fast during this holy time and give you a new-found appreciation for the fasters around you.

 
 

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