10 Ramadan Etiquette Tips For Non-Muslims In The UAE

Ramadan is currently underway, and Muslims around the world are fasting. Yes, during the holy month, Muslims fast until sunset, afterwhich they break their fast. But as a non-muslim living in the UAE, chances are you’re probably trying to be respectful, and learning about how to Ramadan etiquette, or through what way you can show respect towards the traditions without directly participating. So, here are a bunch of things to keep in mind so that you’re aware of Ramadan etiquette tips.

Ramadan Etiquette Tips

1. Eating And Drinking

While the general rule on the government portal, as revealed in a report of the National News, says, ‘eating, drinking and smoking in public during the fasting hours is prohibited’. One can visit restaurants. After all, in recent years, the eateries have been allowed to operate during fasting hours as well.

Having said that, it’s always good to be mindful. Yes, for instance, you work in an office, and your colleague is fasting. During lunch, while they will obviously not mind you eating, it’s always polite to ask if they would be okay with you eating there. They will mostly say ‘yes,’  but it’s just the mere action of asking, the kindness behind those words that makes a world of difference.

2. What About Clothing?

With the official guidelines encouraging a more conservative approach, it is important that you follow this as well. Even though you’re in a normal public setting, it’s good to dress up in a way that shows respect to the values of a particular country. And of course, this rule must be followed with utmost precision when it comes to visiting cultural sites during the month.

3. Mind The Noise

A month that’s all about tranquillity and self-reflection, make sure to curb unnecessary noise. If you love to listen to music, you might want to ensure that the volume is high enough for your enjoyment but low enough that nobody else is disturbed or having to be a forced listener. But this obviously is not just for Ramadan; it is, anyway, a good practice to ensure your music doesn’t end up being noise for others.

4. Mind The Time & Your Colleagues

Talking about work, you must be mindful of your fasting colleagues. For instance, if you’re a manager, you will want to keep in mind that the employees under you are probably fasting and working on an empty stomach and parched throat. Additionally, there are some timing changes that malls or restaurants may follow. For instance, malls might open later, while some restaurants may not open until after sunset.

5. Iftar & More

When you’re invited to an Iftar, you will definitely want to accept the invitation. After all, who could say no to a familial atmosphere complemented by good food? But, there are etiquettes to attending such gatherings as well. Although it’s not a requirement to bring a gift, you can certainly take a dish along as a gesture of goodwill.

6. Participating With Muslims?

There are many cultural events happening during the time, and one can join their Musim friends for these. With public iftars, shows, events and a lot planned for all the emirates, Ramadan is truly one of the most vibrant times in the country.

7. Time To Be Charitable & Friendly

Traditionally, it’s the month to be charitable. So, non-muslims can join in through their charitable actions as well. But make sure to be associated with recognised charities only, after all, there are many scams that take place as well.

8. Be Careful During Iftar Rush

As the sun goes down, traffic might be heavy. Called the iftar rush, many people tend to rush back to be with their families during this time, so that they can break their fast at the precise moment. And hence, it’s important that you either leave early or, if you’re stuck in one of those rushes, make sure to drive carefully.

Also Read: 9 Best Places For Iftar In Kuwait That Will Make Breaking Your Fast Special!

9. Avoid Public Display Of Affection

This is something that’s anyway not encouraged inpublic. But it’s considered even more indecent during the holy month. So, be aware of how you conduct yourself in public. After all, it’s a good thing to be morally upright in public and be respectful of the value system in place in a country.

10. It’s All About Respect

Finally, make sure to be respectful. Your actions during the month of Ramadan don’t need to be extraordinary. All you need to do is be aware and polite. A little politeness and the intent behind your action shows how you’re trying to be join in, and while you might not be fasting, you’re ready to show respect. And that’s honestly what matters.

On a concluding note, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s all about the intention. When you’re respectful, and your actions show the same, it is always received well.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Zurijeta & Canva Pro/sanoojck from pixabay (Cover image is for representative purposes only)