Muslim expats in non-Muslim countries
Observing Ramadan as an expat in a non-Muslim country can be challenging for legitimate reasons; you may have to withstand ubiquitous food temptations, repetitively answer local people's curiosity questions, and deal with homesickness due to the lack of community feeling. However, as a Muslim expat, you can take this opportunity to involve the natives in this spiritual reflection by opening up about what you do and why you do it.
While in some Muslim countries, like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia, working office hours are reduced during Ramadan for both the private and public sector, and the school schedule is adjusted, in non-Muslim countries it is business as usual. The long duration of the daily fasting and the commitment to praying can make those last two-three hours in the office seem an eternity. However, you can discuss with your supervisor the possible tweaking of your schedule during Ramadan — you could start your workday earlier, allowing yourself to use that burst of energy from breakfast. Also, reorganise your meetings' calendar ahead of time to block the dates you are unable to participate in business lunch meetings.
Do not expect all your friends and colleagues to know about Ramadan and what it entails. Thus, take some time to talk to the people who matter to you and you spend the most time with about your temporary situation. You can prevent awkwardness by explaining that it is alright for them to eat in front of you or that you will be missing out on some Sunday brunches, but you will definitely make up for those soon. If you wish to preserve your social life during Ramadan, you can invite your friends to lower energy and food-free activities such as a movies or board games night.
Remember also to keep your body and mind active during Ramadan. It may not be a good idea to stick to the new exercise routine you have adopted in your host country, but for the next few weeks you can replace jogging and Zumba with relaxing Yin yoga or laid-back walks in the park.
Non-Muslim expats in Muslim countries
If you are a non-Muslim expat in a Muslim country, it's a good idea to obtain at least the basic historical knowledge about the importance of Ramadan for Islam. It is believed that during the holy month, the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad; for the Muslim community, Ramadan is a particular time for spirituality and reflection achieved through fasting, charity, and extensive reading of the Quran.
So, when you find yourself close to people who fast, avoid saying anything like: “How do you do that?” Such questions may make your Muslim friends or colleagues feel uncomfortable or alienated. Instead, recognise how much discipline fasting requires, and if you feel determined enough, why not try it yourself for a day to understand what Ramadan is like.
The Muslim community is highly stereotyped and misrepresented, so you shouldn't be surprised by how keen Muslim people are to engage in meaningful conversations about their religious traditions. Don't hesitate to ask genuine questions about Ramadan showing interest to educate yourself. Iftar, the breaking of the fast at sunset, is usually a big communal meal, to which you will be gladly welcomed by your Muslim friends, as long as you show enthusiasm to be part of it.
A few Muslim countries change their business hours during Ramadan, and things tend to slow down a bit. This might be a bit frustrating to an expat who is new to the country, but it is important to be patient and empathetic during this period.
Some of the best things you can do during Ramadan as a non-Muslim person is to offer your support to those who observe Ramadan and not to expect all believers to react in the same way during the fasting period. Also, be discreet towards Muslim people who are not fasting, as it's most likely due to health reasons, pregnancy, or menstruation.
Ramadan ends with Eid al Fitr, a big festival full of feasts, presents for children, and exchange of care and love.
