Ramadan 2019 will begin on May 7 (according to Saudi Arabia) and end on June 4. Eid al Fitr 2019 will be on Wednesday, June 5. This is a tentative date as the actual date is contingent on the sighting of the moon of Ramadan, the 9th month in the Islamic calendar (Hijri 1440).
With the Muslim holy month of Ramadan due to begin around May 7, travel managers and travelers going on business trips to Muslim countries should be mindful of certain public and business etiquette tips. During Ramadan, Muslims observing the fast refrain from eating, drinking and smoking from dawn to dusk each day. The main evening meal for breaking the fast is known as Iftar, and many Muslims also have a second meal known as Suhour, which must end before Imsak time at dawn.
Do not eat, drink or smoke in public.During fasting hours (i.e., daylight) in most Muslim countries, it is considered impolite to have food, drink or cigarettes in public view. This also applies during travel on public transportation or in private cars. In countries like Egypt, abstinence from food and drink in public is an optional matter of courtesy, but in other countries such as Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Oman and the UAE, public observance of the fast is compulsory regardless of religion. Most restaurants and cafes close during daylight hours, but most hotels offer room service and screened eating areas to non-fasting visitors. Check local laws and customs pre-travel to ensure a smooth trip.
Dress modestly.Ramadan is considered a time of devoutness, modesty and moderation for Muslims around the world. Travelers to Muslim countries should refrain from wearing revealing clothing. This is particularly important when visiting malls, hotels, restaurants and Iftar tents in the evening. Malls in the UAE, for example, have a year-round “courtesy policy” at most entrances, reminding visitors to wear modest attire and refrain from smoking, skating and bringing pets or alcohol into the shopping center. As a general rule, clothing that is sheer, too short, low-cut or tight-fitting should be avoided.
Be mindful of workplace etiquette.Business travelers to Muslim countries should respect the shorter office hours and work around them. It is best to schedule important meetings in the morning, when anyone fasting is less tired and can better concentrate. It is also good to make sure that meetings do not occur over lunch or coffee. While non-Muslims are permitted to eat and drink behind closed doors, they should avoid doing so in front of fasting colleagues and should instead excuse themselves to a more remote area. If offered refreshments during the day, it is considered respectful to decline.
Check food and entertainment schedules.If you are traveling to a predominantly Muslim country during Ramadan, you should be prepared to be flexible with your food and entertainment plans. Avoid unnecessary travel within an hour of sunset, as traffic will be heavy and accident rates peak, and avoid making dinner reservations around that time, as most restaurants will be busy preparing and serving Iftar. In many places, live music entertainment is prohibited, dance clubs are closed and bars are kept dry. Shopping malls are usually very crowded in the evening, and many tourist activities may be put on hold throughout Ramadan.
Respect local public etiquette.Avoid public displays of affection, listening to loud music and chewing gum in public. Do not order alcohol or pork if invited to an Iftar at a restaurant.
Source: Buying Business Travel
