If you are traveling during Ramadan, be sure to plan your itinerary carefully as many attractions remain open, though operating hours and services may be restricted.
Dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites, including water bottles and sunscreen. Also bring some for the long trip!
Accommodation
Every year, Muslims around the world mark Ramadan with a month-long fast and devotion. This holiday allows family and friends to come together, enjoy delicious meals together, and exchange gifts. Over two billion Muslims wake before sunrise to eat Suhoor (a light breakfast to fuel their day ahead), then break their fast with Iftar at sunset with family and friends; Muslims believe that Allah will bless anyone who provides Iftar to others. Finally, Eid al-Fitr–often considered Christmas–marks its end three days later with Eid al-Fitr (holiday of rejoinder) which many call Eid al-Fitr (day of celebration).
Estimates suggest there are an estimated 3.3 million Muslims living in the US and many are active employees, leading to requests for accommodation during Ramadan – the ninth month in Islamic calendar and special time of devotion and reflection through daily fasting and nightly prayer. Some may be able to maintain their regular routine, while there may also be various abilities and accommodations needed during Ramadan; it’s important for employers to remember all religions have the right to freedom of practice and should respect these requests without question or objection – providing employees can continue working effectively and productively during Ramadan!
Meals
Ramadan marks 30 days during which more than two billion Muslims worldwide abstain from food and drinks during daylight hours, beginning each day with Suhoor, an early breakfast-like meal, and ending it at Iftar – dinner that breaks fast after sunset. Though traditions vary by country and region, certain dishes will likely appear on many tables during Ramadan.
Istanbul streets are packed with bakeries specializing in Ramadan pidesi bread – an airy leavened loaf with distinctive indentations and toppings of sesame and nigella seeds, often served during Iftar alongside Turkish coffee, cheese and jam.
Shawarma is a classic Middle-Eastern dish consisting of thinly sliced meat and vegetables rolled in pita bread, while another popular snack is baklava made with sweet phyllo dough layered with nuts and honey. If you want a refreshing drink during Ramadan, fresh tamarind juice made from the fruit of tropical plants grows abundantly during Ramadan is also delicious!
Staying hydrated during Ramadan, especially as temperatures heat up, is essential to staying comfortable. Be sure to pack or purchase a water bottle from your hotel so you can stay hydrated between meals. A fun family activity might include holding a quiz night with questions related to Ramadan as questions. Winners could receive prizes!
Transportation
Those traveling during Ramadan should expect some disruptions to their usual activities, with many streets and bazaars virtually deserted and public transport often difficult. If you want to venture out during this holy month, make sure you book tickets ahead and bring plenty of water and snacks if needed during the day!
Traveling during Ramadan requires keeping to a schedule and sticking with an itinerary; otherwise, most restaurants and cafes may be closed, making sightseeing before iftar (the evening meal that breaks fasting) or after it even more important. Some museums or landmarks may also be closed during this period.
Alcohol will typically not be available during Ramadan in most countries and many businesses, including restaurants and hotels, will likely close for business. If you plan on venturing out during this time period, check with your hotel if they offer food packages specifically for tourists, or look for restaurants which remain open specifically for them.
It is considered polite to dress modestly when out and about during Ramadan, regardless of your faith. Wear clothing that covers arms, legs, shoulders, as well as your head if applicable (women should consider this if covering her head is desired). Additionally, refrain from playing loud music in public.
Activities
Ramadan is known for being a month of family fun and special traditions. This season is an opportunity to gather with loved ones, spend quality time together, teach children about Islam’s values, and establish new family traditions.
Fasting may be a well-known practice during Ramadan, but that is only part of its religious significance. Muslims are encouraged to give back to their community during this month of fasting through volunteering or providing charity donations (zakat).
People spend much of the year creating and selling fanoos (small lamps). When Ramadan arrives, these fanoos are proudly displayed for display by mesaharaty – or “light-up men”. At nighttime they gather groups of children around them as they sing cheerful songs while strolling down streets holding fans.
Other activities associated with Ramadan include Henna Painting – an Islamic tradition where women and girls cover their hands and palms with intricate patterns during special events – for both women and girls, while children use this opportunity to express their creativity while learning about Islamic art history. As another fun, low-cost activity during Ramadan, decorate calendars with stickers or stamps marking days of fasting to help children understand the difference between lunar calendars and Gregorian calendars.