Workplace Doctor: What is expected of staff and companies during Ramadan

Staff and employers have to appreciate the responsibility of being residents in the UAE.

The Workplace Doctor advises on how to deal with workers during the holy month of Ramadan. Reem Mohammed / The National

I am the founder of a small business in Dubai with a very diverse group of staff. Ramadan is coming and I want to be able to accommodate everyone's needs. While I am up to speed on the working hours I need to put in place during this time, what measures do you suggest with regards to eating and drinking? We have a small office with just two rooms of desks and a small kitchen/eating area. WE, Dubai

One of the many benefits of living in the UAE is the way individuals and the society as a whole embraces and accommodates each other. It is what makes those of us who move here for one year stay for 10. Coming from London, I felt I had grown up in a diverse and supportive society. Since moving to this side of the pond it is now apparent that the UAE could teach the rest of the world a few tricks.

This appreciation and understanding of cultural and religious differences is especially important during the holy month of Ramadan. During fasting hours, whether fasting or not, it is expected that everyone remain respectful of all that Ramadan entails. This means that non-Muslims are asked to refrain from eating, drinking and smoking in public view out of consideration for those observing the holy month.

During work, companies can provide a private room that is out of sight of those who are fasting. You could designate one of your meeting rooms, or the kitchen area, ensuring any windows are covered to provide complete privacy. I would also take the time to explain clearly to your staff who are not fasting what is expected of them during this time, but do so through balancing their need to comply with a desire to show understanding.

Founding your business in Dubai means you should be a role model for human understanding and consideration, key skills for business owners in the UAE. I also observe these characteristics across most of UAE society and it is what makes this country really work. There is an honest appreciation of diverse cultures in a place that is home to more than 200 nationalities.

This is your opportunity to show your appreciation for the diversity in your organisation, while also adhering to the rules of the society that has allowed your business to grow. This is a key responsibility of being a leader in the UAE. Your team will also feel reassured to see that you respect the rules, in business and more broadly. It demonstrates integrity, a fundamental skill for 21st century leaders.

As well as demonstrating understanding and integrity, I would also remind you of the importance of showing patience with those who are fasting, especially during the first few days of Ramadan. So as their leader, support them through this with encouragement and time and space.

Here are some suggestions to share with your staff when operating during the holy month. First, be particularly aware of dress code, even during this warmer weather by respecting the traditions of this very important time of year. Second, avoid having any food or drink at your desk or visible to others, even if it is not being actively consumed. Please also remember to show empathy for those fasting colleagues by avoiding inconsiderate food discussions, for example around what you plan to have for lunch.

Finally, when having business meetings with Muslims, it is best to schedule them in the morning when people are less tired and can better engage and concentrate. Remember, people make their best contribution in organisations when they feel their needs are personally valued.

Doctor's prescription:

During this month, you must make sure your diverse group of staff appreciates the responsibility of being residents in the UAE. However, more importantly, they feel the benefits that showing appreciation, compassion and understanding has in helping the business and the UAE to prosper.

Alex Davda is business psychologist and client director at Ashridge Executive Education, Hult International Business School, and is based in the Middle East. Email him at [e-mail] for advice on any work issues.

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