Ramadan begins on February 28, 2025 and lasts until March 29, 2025, Insha’Allah (God willing). This is the holiest month in Islam, observed by Muslims around the world through fasting, prayer, self-reflection, and acts of charity. It is a deeply spiritual time that encourages gratitude, discipline and a closer connection to God.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar, and it commemorates the month when the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Since the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, Ramadan shifts by about 10 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar.
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the core acts of worship in the faith. From dawn to sunset, Muslims abstain from food, drink (including water), and other physical needs as an act of worship and self-discipline. Fasting is intended to purify the soul, encourage empathy for those less fortunate, and strengthen one’s relationship with God.
Beyond fasting, Ramadan is also a time of increased prayer, reflection, and charity. Muslims engage in extra nightly prayers (Taraweeh), read more of the Qur’an, and make an effort to give to those in need.
Why is Ramadan Important?
Ramadan is believed to be a time of immense blessings and mercy. During this month:
- The gates of Heaven are opened, and the gates of Hell are closed.
- Shaytaan (Satan) is chained, making it easier for believers to focus on worship and self-improvement.
- Good deeds and acts of worship are multiplied, with rewards ranging from 10 to 700 times their usual value.
- The last 10 nights of Ramadan hold Laylatul Qadr (The Night of Power), a night described as better than 1,000 months in blessings. It is believed that prayers and good deeds on this night bring immense rewards.
What Happens at the End of Ramadan?
Ramadan concludes with Eid al-Fitr (the Festival of Breaking the Fast), a joyous holiday celebrating the completion of fasting. Muslims gather for a special prayer, share meals with loved ones, and give charity to those in need.
How Can Management & Colleagues Support Muslim Employees?
Working in the airline industry, where schedules and operational demands are high, small considerations can make a big impact in supporting our Muslim colleagues. Here’s how:
- Be mindful of prayer and meal times. The most critical prayer for fasting employees is Maghrib (sunset prayer), which is also when we break our fast.
- On the first day of Ramadan, Maghrib will be at 17:52. (Attached is a prayer schedule)
- Allow flexibility when possible to give employees a few minutes to break their fast at sunset before resuming work.
- Consider rest periods for fasting employees, especially during long shifts or physically demanding tasks.
- Offer grace and understanding. Fasting impacts energy levels, focus, and overall well-being. A little patience and support can go a long way.
- Respect prayer breaks. Muslims pray five times a day, and during Ramadan, these prayers take on even greater significance.
- Be considerate during meal times. While it’s completely fine to eat around fasting colleagues, being mindful (such as avoiding offering food to someone who is fasting) is appreciated.
- Acknowledge and support. A simple Ramadan Mubarak (Happy Ramadan) or asking a coworker how their fast is going can help foster inclusivity.
