Supporting Muslim Parents observing Ramadan – a guide for workplaces

What is Ramadan and why is it significant for Muslims? 

The sacred month of Ramadan is the holiest month in Islam, a deeply spiritual and meaningful month for Muslims. During this time Muslims will direct their focus on practicing self-discipline, gratitude, and empathy for those who are less fortunate; drawing closer to God through this process. 

How does fasting during Ramadan affect Muslim parents in the workplace?

Many Muslims will be fasting during the day as a religious observance – which means abstaining from food and drink (including water) between the hours of dawn to sunset –as well as balancing family life and professional responsibilities all at the same time. It can feel like a juggling act for some parents with young children! Employers and colleagues can play a significant role in being more inclusive and supportive during the month of Ramadan. Here we focus on how Muslim parents can be supported and better empowered in the workplace: 

What are practical ways to support Muslim parents during Ramadan? 

• Hybrid working or flexible hours 

Offer and be supportive of options for hybrid working, flexible hours or remote working. This year (2025) the fasting period is likely to be over the whole of March (dependent on moonsighting). Ramadan is a time of late-night prayers and very early morning starts, and those with young children will have had the additional challenges of managing children’s routines, night-time feeding/waking etc. For many parents, this means being even more sleep-deprived than usual. 

The option of flexible working hours can be massively helpful for most parents and will mean they can plan their days in Ramadan around when they are at their most productive. Many Muslim employees will prefer to start work earlier when they are at their most energetic, as opposed to working late when energy levels may be waning. 

Remote working in Ramadan can help employees conserve energy, avoid long commutes while fasting, and better manage their family responsibilities. 

• Be aware of when you schedule meetings 

Avoid scheduling work meetings around food, for example lunch meetings or team breakfasts. Muslims do not mind being around food while they are fasting and are unlikely to say anything, but this is one way to show them that their current circumstances have been taken into consideration. After Iftar/sunset meeting options could be considered where required. 

• Accommodate prayer times 

  Be mindful of prayer times. If your workplace does not already have one, provide a private room or reflective space for Muslim employees to be able to pray in the afternoons. Many Muslim employees will not require a lunch break during Ramadan and may prefer to spend that time in quiet contemplation instead. 

• Foster a supportive environment 

  Hold a staff briefing or share internal communications about Ramadan, encouraging staff to be mindful and respectful of colleagues who may be fasting at this time of year - and for them to be aware of any changes in working practices the month might bring.  

• Accommodate Eid leave requests 

  The festival of Eid al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is one of the most important annual family celebrations for Muslims all over the world. Most people will have plans to attend Eid prayers on the morning of Eid, and to celebrate the day with close and extended family members. Allowing employees time off for Eid demonstrates inclusivity and reflects an understanding of religious diversity in the workplace. 

• Ask how parents can be supported better 

  Ramadan routines and practices will differ from one family to the next. Depending on the ages of their children, parents will face their own unique set of challenges. Open communication and regular check-ins throughout the month can be especially useful in ensuring employees are feeling supported. 

Why does inclusivity during Ramadan matter? 

It can take very minimal adjustments in the workplace for staff to feel valued and acknowledged, boosting staff morale and overall job satisfaction. Offering Muslim parents flexibility in the workplace in Ramadan helps to foster an inclusive and productive space, one where employees will feel a sense of belonging and equity. 

We wish everyone a peaceful and productive Ramadan!