Ramadan For Expats: What To Know, How To Participate Respectfully

by Sana Bun

Ramadan For Expats: What To Know, How To Participate Respectfully

28 Jan 2026

Ramadan for expats isn't only about learning new rules, but also about understanding how daily life changes across the Middle East during the holy month. From adjusted work schedules and quieter daytime routines to lively evenings centred around Iftar, the rhythm of daily life shifts in subtle but noticeable ways. For newcomers, knowing how to behave during Ramadan in the Middle East helps avoid awkward moments and shows cultural awareness. This expat guide to Ramadan focuses on practical etiquette rather than religious obligations, covering public behaviour, workplace norms, and social customs. With a bit of preparation and sensitivity, navigating Ramadan becomes straightforward and respectful.

How to behave during Ramadan in the Middle East

Understanding how to behave during Ramadan in the Middle East comes down to mindfulness rather than rigid rules. The atmosphere is calmer, routines shift, and evenings become more social.

Dress conservatively

Modest dress is encouraged year-round in many Middle Eastern countries, but during Ramadan it becomes even more important. This applies to both men and women.

Choose loose-fitting clothing
Cover shoulders and knees
Avoid sheer or overly tight garments
Dress especially modestly when visiting mosques or attending Iftar gatherings

This is a key part of Ramadan etiquette non-Muslims should be aware of, and it’s often appreciated rather than explicitly enforced.

Photo: Danny Lines

Can you eat in public during Ramadan?

One of the most practical questions for newcomers is can you eat in public during Ramadan. While rules vary by country, the shared principle across the region is mindfulness. Eating, drinking, smoking, or vaping in public during daylight hours can be distracting for those who are fasting, which is why discretion is encouraged.

Public eating and drinking during the day is often restricted or discouraged
Many hotels and international restaurants operate discreetly, sometimes behind screens
Private spaces, offices, and designated areas are usually acceptable

In the Gulf, regulations have relaxed in recent years, particularly in large cities. That said, what not to do during Ramadan still includes openly eating or drinking in public spaces during the day, as a matter of respect rather than enforcement.

Ramadan rules in the UAE for non-Muslims

Ramadan rules in the UAE for non-Muslims are more flexible than they once were, especially in Dubai. Restaurants often remain open, and eating in public isn't strictly banned, but discretion is still expected. Authorities continue to encourage respectful behaviour, particularly in malls, public transport, and government buildings.

Social etiquette: Iftar, greetings, and daily life

Accept Iftar invitations

Accepting Iftar invitations is one of the most meaningful ways to engage with local culture. Friends, colleagues, and neighbours often invite expats to break the fast together, and these gatherings are warm, generous, and social.

For anyone navigating Ramadan for expats, this is an easy and genuine way to participate without fasting.

Use appropriate greetings

Simple greetings are always appreciated:

“Ramadan Kareem”
“Ramadan Mubarak”

Using them shows awareness and respect, even if you are unfamiliar with religious details. This is a small but important part of Ramadan etiquette non-Muslims often overlook.

Photo: Behnam Norouzi

Sound, behaviour, and public conduct

Ramadan brings earlier mornings, later nights, and increased prayer activity. Being mindful of this shift matters.

Keep music volume low in public and at home
Avoid loud gatherings during late-night or early-morning hours
Use headphones when listening to music in shared spaces

These habits align closely with expectations around how to behave during Ramadan in the Middle East.

Work schedule during Ramadan in Dubai and the region

Another common concern is the work schedule during Ramadan in Dubai and neighbouring countries. In most Gulf states:

Working hours are officially reduced
Start times may shift earlier
Productivity expectations adjust accordingly

Many offices operate shorter days, and meetings are often scheduled earlier in the morning. This applies to both Muslim and non-Muslim employees, making it one of the more noticeable changes for expats during Ramadan.

DOs and DON’Ts for expats during Ramadan

Follow government-issued Ramadan rules
Dress modestly and appropriately
Be mindful of eating and drinking in public
Learn Suhoor and Iftar timings
Adjust expectations around schedules and response times

These practices help expats navigate Ramadan for expats smoothly and respectfully.

DON’T

Be dismissive or disrespectful of traditions
Photograph people without permission
Play loud music in public spaces
Engage in public displays of affection

Understanding what not to do during Ramadan avoids unnecessary discomfort and shows cultural awareness.

Photo: Ahmet Kurt

Respecting Ramadan customs in Saudi Arabia

Respecting Ramadan customs in Saudi Arabia requires particular attention. Regulations are stricter than in some neighbouring countries, and public behaviour is more closely observed.

Public eating and drinking during daylight hours is prohibited
Dress codes are more conservative
Public conduct is expected to remain restrained

For expats living or travelling there, learning local expectations in advance is essential.

Navigating Eamadan for expats is less about memorising rules and more about reading the room. Being considerate, observant, and open goes a long way. You don’t need to fast, but understanding Ramadan etiquette non-Muslims are expected to follow helps you move through the month comfortably and respectfully when you are adjusting to a different work schedule during Ramadan in Dubai, knowing can you eat in public during Ramadan, or simply wishing colleagues well, small gestures matter. With the right mindset, Ramadan becomes not a challenge, but a meaningful cultural experience to share.

by Sana Bun