Ramadan begins at the sighting of the new moon, which this year is Sunday 10th March. It's the 9th month in the Islamic calendar, and it's a month of prayers, meditation and giving. During the month, Muslims eat
at Suhoor (before sunrise) and break fast at Iftar (sunset).
Some of your colleagues may be taking part in Ramadan, so why not check out these great tips that Zabardast shared with us on how to support your colleagues throughout the month?
You can also see our South-Asian restaurant partners and caterers here.
During Ramadan, meals with friends and family, gatherings at Iftar, community prayers and community feeding initiatives are all given more focus.
Eid is the celebration which marks the end of the Ramadan month. Families and friends get together, visit mosques to pray together, exchange presents, wear their best clothes and donate to those in need.
Why not organise a celebratory pop-up for Eid?
Make time for colleagues to perform their prayers
Of course, this goes without saying, but make sure colleagues have the time and an appropriate place to perform prayers.
Be sympathetic if they appear ‘hangry’
Muslims must adapt themselves both physically and emotionally during this long month of fasting. A typical day of fasting begins with getting up around 4:30am and sharing a meal called sahur together before the fast begins at about 5:10am, so by the time work begins, they'll likely be feeling the effects already!
If you can, avoid eating or drinking too much around them
While we normally encourage team lunches and get-togethers, it will be difficult for your colleagues who are taking part in Ramadan to see everyone enjoying a big lunch when they're unable to join in! Make sure you bring extra containers so that they can take some food home with them to eat during Suhoor/Iftar. You could also try to take your lunch at different times, and if the weather is nice, why not head outside instead of eating at your desk?
Where possible, allow flexibility in morning start times as people might have gone to sleep after sunrise (Suhoor)
If you offer a flexible working pattern, give employees the option to come into the office a little later, or work from home where possible. Scheduling meetings for the afternoon rather than in the morning can help too!
If you're ordering food for the team, choose options from Halal restaurant partners and caterers.
Making sure that food is Halal can take some extra stress off of colleagues taking part in Ramadan, and means they can enjoy treats and meals with colleagues too - it's as simple as that!
Offer high-protein foods that help keep people fuller for longer
If you're providing evening meals at work, offer high-protein options - they're great for helping the team feel satiated. Pairing that with slow-release carbs like quinoa and healthy fats make for a well-balanced meal that's great for maintaining fullness.
Discover a collection of our restaurant partners whose menus are great for Ramadan, Eid and more.
