Guest Articles

What Ramadan Is - and What It Isn’t

At its most visible level, Ramadan is known for fasting. From dawn (suhoor) until sunset (iftar), Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking and marital relations. However, fasting is far more than physical restraint. It is a spiritual discipline intended to develop self-control, gratitude and empathy for those less fortunate.

It is important to understand that Ramadan is not simply about hunger. It is about intention, mindfulness and character. Muslims are encouraged to avoid negative speech, gossip, arguments and impatience. The emphasis is on becoming the best version of oneself - spiritually, morally and socially.

Daily Rhythm During Ramadan

You may notice that mornings feel quieter and evenings more vibrant. The fast is broken at sunset with iftar, traditionally beginning with dates and water, following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Families gather, mosques fill, and there is a strong sense of togetherness.

Later in the evening, many Muslims attend special nightly prayers known as Taraweeh, performed in congregation at the mosque. These extended prayers are unique to Ramadan and involve the recitation of long portions of the Qur’an over the course of the month. For many, Taraweeh is one of the most spiritually uplifting aspects of Ramadan.

The Qur’an itself takes centre stage during this month. Muslims aim to read, recite or listen to the entire Qur’an over the 29 or 30 days. Homes often become places of quiet reflection, prayer and family bonding.

Practical Etiquette for British Expats

Living in a Muslim-majority country during Ramadan requires cultural awareness and sensitivity. While expectations vary depending on local regulations, here are some general principles:

1. Be mindful of eating and drinking in public.

In many Gulf countries, eating or drinking openly during daylight hours may be restricted. Even where regulations have relaxed, discretion remains respectful.

2. Dress modestly.

Ramadan is a sacred time. Dressing conservatively - covering shoulders and knees as a minimum - shows cultural awareness and consideration.

3. Adjust expectations around energy levels.

Colleagues who are fasting may experience lower energy during the day. Meetings may be shorter, and working hours are often reduced. Patience and flexibility are appreciated.

4. Avoid loud music or public displays of partying.

The tone of the month is reflective rather than celebratory during the day. Social events typically take place after sunset.

5. Use appropriate greetings.

Saying “Ramadan Mubarak” or “Ramadan Kareem” is warmly received and shows respect.

Above all, approach the month with curiosity rather than assumption. Asking thoughtful questions is usually welcomed.

A Month of Giving and Community

One of the most important dimensions of Ramadan is generosity. Charity, known as zakat (obligatory giving) and sadaqah (voluntary charity),is heavily emphasised. Many Muslims choose this month to calculate and distribute their annual charitable contributions.

In Islam, true charity is given so quietly that “the left hand does not know what the right hand has given”, a reminder that generosity is most powerful when it is sincere and free from recognition.

The spirit of giving extends beyond money. It includes feeding others, supporting neighbours, forgiving grievances and strengthening relationships. It is common for families to host communal iftars, inviting friends, colleagues and even strangers to share a meal. The breaking of the fast is not meant to be solitary; it is rooted in community.

For British expats, this is a wonderful opportunity to participate. Accepting an invitation to iftar can be a meaningful cultural experience. It offers insight into hospitality, tradition and family life.

The Deeper Meaning of Restriction

Fasting is sometimes misunderstood as deprivation. In reality, it is about discipline and conscious restraint. By voluntarily stepping away from basic comforts, Muslims aim to reset their relationship with consumption, whether that be food, time, anger or distraction.

Restriction during Ramadan is a form of control: control over impulse, over ego, over habit. It cultivates empathy for those who live with scarcity daily. When one experiences hunger firsthand, generosity becomes more instinctive and gratitude more sincere.

For expats observing from the outside, this offers an important perspective. In a world that often encourages constant consumption and productivity, Ramadan invites stillness and reflection.

Family, Faith and Reflection

Ramadan also brings families closer together. Shared pre-dawn meals, collective prayers and evening gatherings foster connection. Many parents use this time to teach children about gratitude, kindness and faith.

The last ten nights of Ramadan are especially significant, as they include Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree), believed to be the night the Qur’an was first revealed. Muslims increase their worship during these nights, seeking forgiveness, mercy and spiritual renewal.

The month concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a festive day marked by communal prayer, charity and celebration.

How You Can Engage Positively

As a British expat, you do not need to fast to show solidarity, although some choose to try it for a day to understand the experience. What matters most is respect, openness and participation where appropriate.

• Attend an iftar if invited.
• Learn about the significance of the Qur’an.
• Offer flexibility to fasting colleagues.
• Engage in acts of charity yourself.
• Reflect on your own habits and wellbeing.

Ramadan is not only a religious observance; it is a social and cultural pillar in Muslim societies. Understanding it enriches both professional and personal relationships.

In Closing

Ramadan is a month of spiritual focus, generosity and community. It is about giving more than taking, listening more than speaking, and reflecting more than reacting. For Muslims, it is a sacred reset, a time to refine character and reconnect with faith.

For the British expat community, it is an opportunity: to learn, to respect, to engage and to grow in cultural understanding.

Approach it with curiosity and kindness, and you will find that Ramadan offers lessons that resonate far beyond the month itself.

Author: 

Fazeela Gopalani, BCCD Director of Finance, Partner and Head of EY Academy, MENA