Every year on the ninth month of the lunar calendar, millions of Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset continuously for 30 days. The Islamic holy month of Ramadan will start generally from the May to June and if you're planning on traveling to a Muslim-majority region like Dubai, Morocco, or Egypt during this time, you’re in for a totally different travel experience. However, you need to remember few tips to avoid any problems and also to show respect to the local culture.
1. Understand the basic things about Ramadan
Ramadan is a lunar month mainly dedicated to one of the five pillars of Islam, fasting (sawm). From sunrise to sunset, people concentrate on spiritual renewal and abstain from things like drink, food, and tobacco. So, avoid eating, drinking, smoking or chewing gum in public during the fasting hours. In countries like Egypt, people consider it as a matter of courtesy, whereas, in other countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, public observance of fast is compulsory regardless of religion.
2. Plan ahead
Like any other holiday, Ramadan also affects the local businesses and other usual activities in the region. It is highly possible that the sites you want to visit during the trip are either closed or will open for limited hours during the day. Therefore, you need to research not just about the place but on what the place is like during Ramadan. Make sure you book your accommodations, transport, and tours well in advance before you arrive, to avoid any inconvenience. Also, read the local laws and customs to ensure a smooth trip.
3. Bring food and water with you
As most of the food outlets will be closed during the day, make sure you store some food and water in case your hotel doesn’t offer a room service for their non-Muslim visitors.
4. Experience the festivity during night
While the daytime might look dull and boring, the night is a lively affair with lots of feasting, social gatherings, and night markets during Ramadan. People take on a relaxed and often celebratory mood at nightfall. In Morocco, avenues wake up with music, light shows, and offers of sweets at each corner. Whereas, in the Gulf countries, the glamorous Ramadan Tents are prominent spots to spend the night socializing, playing games, enjoying the snacks, and smoking shisha. Non-Muslims are almost always welcome to join in.
So, you need to adjust your schedule keeping this fact in mind. You can simply relax during the day and enjoy being around in the city during the night time.
5. Be careful of what you are wearing
Though cosmopolitan places like Dubai are comparatively more liberal when it comes to attire, Ramadan warrants extra care when choosing what to wear. Men can wear knee-length shorts or trousers, whereas women should cover their shoulders and knees. Also, avoid PDAs or else you might end up in trouble, so better safe than sorry.
6. Be sensitive to the traditions and rituals
As mentioned above, avoid eating or drinking in public. Also, try keeping a respectful distance from Muslims especially during their prayer time. Be sensitive and considerate when you interact with them bearing in mind that they are taking neither food nor water for at least 12 hours on a scorching summer day.
7. Get in the Ramadan swing
The month is customarily a period of great generosity and hospitality, so go ahead and accept the Ramadan desserts or invitations to be a part of the social gathering. You can always return the favor with gift boxes of food or by practicing zakat (giving of alms to the poor and needy) to a local charity. Although it may take a while for your body clock to adjust to the rhythms of quiet days and staying up all night, you'll have a far better experience if you go with the flow.
Conclusion
You might be thinking that Ramadan isn’t a convenient time to travel, but it is one of the most interesting times where you get the rare chance to truly experience the local culture and food, have a lesser crowd to deal with, and discounted accommodations and shopping to help you save more during the trip!
Have you ever traveled to a Muslim-majority country during Ramadan? How was your experience? Share your thoughts with me in the comment section below!
Note: This article was originally published by me at Quora