Observing Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam and over the next month observant Muslims will abstain from food, drinking and smoking from dawn to dusk and practice restraint from all activities and behaviours not compatible with Islamic values.
In many Arab countries non-Muslims are expected to observe Ramadan while in public by law. Anyone found flouting Ramadan customs faces arrest and the possibility of fines and even jail time.
To avoid falling foul of local laws and customs and to make the most of this special time of the year, Yahoo! Maktoob has drawn up a few guidelines to follow and tips to consider for non-Muslims.
Do not eat or drink in public during daytime
As we mentioned above, in many Arab countries non-Muslims are required by law to observe Ramadan customs while in public. This includes chewing gum and smoking and extends to your car and any other place considered to be in public view.
Certain groups of people - pregnant or nursing women, young children, the elderly, the chronically ill and the mentally ill - are exempt from fasting, but these people should still exercise discretion while in public.
Eat before you go out during daytime
Most restaurants and cafes will be closed during daylight hours, especially those inside shopping centres. The few that are open are screened from public view.
Plan for a lot of quiet nights in ... and out
Most major nightclubs will be shut. Some pubs and bars will remain open, but they will only be playing background music.
Do not play loud music or dance
Loud music and dancing are considered disrespectful during Ramadan so do not play music or dance in public, not even in your car.
Mind your language
Refrain from cursing or swearing. This is also considered disrespectful during Ramadan.
Dress conservatively
While wearing skimpy clothes is generally frowned upon in Arab countries, be extra careful about your dress during the month of fasting as standards may be policed even more carefully than usual.
Be careful on the roads
Driving is more erratic than usual, especially during late afternoon and early evening. Be patient and show tolerance.
Go to an Iftar
Throughout Ramadan you will likely receive several invitations to join Muslim friends or colleagues to break the fast at an Iftar. Iftars are a very happy occasion for Muslims and great place to meet friends and make new ones.
Learn the lingo
To start you off, "Ramadan Mubarak" and "Ramadan Kareem" are traditional congratulatory greetings during the holy month.
Fast for a day, week or even the whole month
Find out what Ramadan is all about first hand, even if you do not do it for the whole month. The act of fasting is said to cleanse the inner soul and allow Muslims to practice self-discipline, self-control, sacrifice, and empathy for those who are less fortunate.
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