When is Ramadan?
Ramadan is one of the most celebrated festival in the Islamic calendar, but is also one of the most misunderstood times from the perspective of expatriate people and companies residing in Dubai.
Ramadan is the name of the ninth month in the Islamic calendar. During Ramadan, all observant Muslims observe the Fast of Ramadan between dawn (fajr), and sunset (maghrib).
During Ramadan night, Muslims eat small meals and visit with friends and family. It is a time to strengthen family and community ties.
Ramadan in 2017 will start on Saturday, the 27th of May (27/5/2017) and will continue for 30 days until Sunday, the 25th of June and ends with the festival of Eid al-Fitr..
How does Ramadan Impact Daily Work Hours?
People wake up very early, usually an hour before the crack of dawn to eat. After the meal people will pray, change and then go to work.
During Ramadan work hours change. People start much earlier than normal and finish earlier too. In some countries, they may work until the noon prayer and then go home for the rest of day, to return to work later at night for a few hours.
Normally, the productivity is going to drop around 20-40% during the month. If you are trying to contact or meeting with valued clients during Ramadan, only aim for early mornings As people generally relax after the last prayers.
Many businesses follow later hours so that once the sun goes down, the streets and malls come alive with a celebratory atmosphere. Non-Muslim visitors are welcome to participate in the Iftar fast-breaking dinners each night, after which the cities stay awake much later than usual with events and gatherings. Many hotels set up special Ramadan tents for these late-night gatherings.
Most shopping malls, hotel and restaurants also offer discounts during this period.
If you do travel during Ramadan, be extra sensitive to cultural practices.
Dressing modestly and avoiding eating, drinking in public. Also you need to keep in mind that people will likely be tired and irritable from fasting and extra courteous.
Traveling during Ramadan, it is an opportunity to save money, the most important is that a unique experience to witness and even take part in this important time for Muslims.
