Ultimate Travel Guide to Ramadan

What is Ramadan?

When is Ramadan?

As a traveller during the holy month, you do not have to refrain from eating or drinking during daylight hours, but it is imperative that you’re respectful and considerate of those around you who may be fasting in accordance with their religious principles.

If you’re travelling during Ramadan, you won’t be without restaurant and food options during your trip. While some stores, food carts and restaurants close during the day to honour the fasting, you will still be able to find places that cater to those who are not observing the holiday.  

In some locations, such as Dubai, a designated area for tourists to eat and drink may be established. Hotels and restaurants will often use screens to keep western diners sectioned off from Islamic guests. Restaurants that cater for travellers may be open as usual, but be aware that places away from these areas are likely to be closed or have ammended operating hours.  

While in most cases, local people will understand that you are not under the same obligation to fast but awareness is appreciated. Pregnant, nursing women and young children are exempt from the provisions, however discretion should be practiced. 

A number of the countries that celebrate Ramadan also are home to a variety of other religions and will therefore operate as usual. This is especially applicable to many Asian nations – including Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and Thailand – which are extremely popular with travellers.

Additionally, while some restaurants might be closed during the daylight hours, many do open their doors at night once the fast has been broken for the day. Because of this, a lot of restaurants may be busier than normal to accommodate everyone who is hoping to enjoy a tasty meal after fasting all day. The upside is restaurants often stay open later as well during this time, so you can feast well into the night if you wish.

However, if you choose to venture outside of a heavily populated area and travel to a remote village or town that is majority Muslim, be prepared to plan ahead and bring a snack along with you just in case.

The streets may be a little more empty during the day than they’d usually be outside of the holy month, but the festivities that occur during nighttime at Ramadan is something you’ll want to experience at least once in your life.

As the sun sets, you will often see large groups gather together to break that day’s fast with a meal known as iftar. There might also be special performances and public gatherings after sunset, which are open to everyone – including tourists - to take part in.

Some countries even host vibrant bazaars at night once the day’s fast has ended. A lot of times these local markets and bazaars will also boast considerable discounts on goods, making it the perfect time to stock up on delicious food and travel souvenirs.

It is unlikely your accommodation will be affected during Ramadan, so you can confidently book a place in your desired location during this period. You may even discover your hotel or hostel provides food onsite for those visiting the Islamic areas who do not participate in the ritual of fasting. This then allows you and those travelling with you to eat as normal in the privacy of your accommodation without causing any disrespect to the local Muslims.

Whenever you’re travelling to a new country and experiencing a unique culture, it is always important to be respectful and mindful of the locals and your fellow travellers – not just during the holy month. If you happen to be travelling to a Muslim nation during Ramadan, you should practice this thinking even more so.

If you find yourself in a Muslim country during Ramadan, try to avoid eating, drinking (especially alcohol), smoking, chewing gum and dancing in public during daylight hours. Do not engage in public displays of affection even if you are married, as this could be seen as offensive. Make sure you also wear more conservative clothing that covers your shoulders and legs and does not cling too tightly to your body. Modest dress standards and other Islamic customs may be more strictly enforced during the holy month. 

Do not take pictures of – or otherwise disrupt – people during prayer. If you venture into a mosque that is open to the public during the holy month, be extremely considerate of those around you.

Non-muslim travellers should pay attention and respect those who are participating in Ramadan so as not to offend Islamic values. Be warned: if you demonstrate culturally insensitive behaviour, you could be arrested.

Ramadan is a dawn-till-dusk fast celebrated by Muslims all over the world. If you're travelling to any of the below countries during the holy month, make sure you're respectful of the locals and their practices during this time, while also making the most of the vibrant nighttime festivities:

Travelling to a new destination is always an exciting experience – and the celebrations of Ramadan only heighten this experience.

Although Ramadan is a holiday observed by Muslims, it does not exclude anyone from enjoying or revelling in its customs. As long as you’re prepared for the day-to-day happenings to be slightly different during this time, your trip is bound to be amazing.

Prior to take off, be sure to research your destination to ensure you know the common practices and occurrences that may occur during your time in the Muslim area. Otherwise, have fun and enjoy this truly magical local experience whichever Islamic country you find yourself in during Ramadan!