The Month of Ramadan: An Etiquette Guide for All Non-Muslims

There are about 8 billion people in the world. And about 24% of them – 1.8 billion – are fasting from sunrise to sunset. Every day. For a whole month.

Today begins Ramadan, the holiest month of the Muslim calendar.

Follow these 10 tips on how to behave with your Muslim friends during the holy month:

1. You can eat in front of us...

For the 30 days of Ramadan, Muslims around the world will abstain from eating and drinking during daylight hours. That doesn't mean you shouldn't continue business as usual. (Just turn a deaf ear to your growling stomach.)

2. … but try not to plan a business lunch

If your Muslim coworker doesn't come, understand.

3. You don't have to fast with us...

You can if you want to see how it feels. But it won't hurt our feelings – even if we're good friends.

4. … but you can join us for Iftar

Iftar is the breaking of the fast after sunset. We like to make it one big meal together. You must come.

5. You don't have to know when it starts...

Ramadan is not like Christmas or Thanksgiving, which everyone knows exactly when it will fall, because the Islamic calendar is lunar. When it starts depends on when the new moon is seen. This is why the exact dates vary from year to year.

6. … but please be a little flexible

The way we determine when Ramadan begins is definitely outdated: You have to physically see the moon (although there are apps for that). That's why, if your colleague says, "Starting tomorrow, can I start work early so I can leave sooner?" try to understand.

7. We'll still go for coffee with you...

No, we can't drink. Not even water. But we will walk with you if you want to take a break.

8. … but we will keep our distance

We don't eat or drink all day. That is why we will be one step away from you when we speak.

9. You can say 'Ramadan Mubarak'…

It means "Happy Ramadan". Your Muslim co-worker will appreciate the care.

10. … but please do not say: 'I must also fast. I need to lose weight'

Ramadan has nothing to do with that. Plus, one of the side effects of Ramadan is obesity.