By Gérard Al-Fil, Dubai

«Dear Customer, our bank has the honor of inviting you and a colleague to our Iftar dinner today at 6:40 PM.»

With the beginning of the month of Ramadan, which started on March 1st and lasts until March 29th, such messages frequently appear in email inboxes or as WhatsApp messages for bank clients and entrepreneurs in the Middle East.

Newcomers often struggle to understand the dos and don’ts of the fasting month of Ramadan.

Here are some tips on how to follow the customs and conduct business even when your business partner is fasting from food and drink during the day.

«Ramadan Karim!»

The first step is to send a digital greeting card featuring a crescent moon and the words «Ramadan Karim!» («Generous Ramadan!») to Muslim clients, business partners, or service providers. Many websites offer such cards for free download.

Observing Ramadan also means shorter working hours, typically no longer than six hours per day. Banks and public institutions also have reduced operating hours.

Speak Softly – Even on the Phone

During the holy month, very few conferences take place, and trade fairs are almost nonexistent. While non-Muslims in Dubai—part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE)—can eat and drink in restaurants, the rules in neighboring Saudi Arabia are much stricter, with restaurants usually closed or covered with curtains.

However, home delivery services like Uber continue to operate in the UAE during the day. One should avoid eating or drinking in public places and refrain from playing music (e.g., with open windows or from a car stereo). Daily life moves at a more relaxed pace. Employees are also expected to speak quietly both in the office and on the phone.

Punctuality is Essential

Banks, fund managers, and insurance companies across the Middle East often use this opportunity to invite clients and stakeholders to Iftar, the communal breaking of the fast after sunset. In private banking, it is common to book a lavish dinner in one of Dubai’s luxury hotels.

Punctuality is key. If Iftar is scheduled for 6:30 PM, it is recommended to arrive twenty minutes earlier. Arriving too late might give the host the impression that one is only attending for a free meal.

Gifts are not customary, but as a courtesy, it is recommended to bring a Halal-certified package of dates or chocolates.

No Shorts or Open Shirts

If you plan to bring a guest, it is advisable to check in advance whether the Iftar invitation allows «plus one» or «plus many», as space in Iftar and Sohour restaurants or Ramadan tents is often limited.

Both men and women are expected to dress conservatively. Men should avoid wearing shorts or open shirts. Smart casual attire is the appropriate choice. Women should refrain from revealing cleavage, shoulders, or legs. If the dinner takes place in a private home, shoes should be removed at the door (bringing your own slippers is recommended).

Photos may be taken at your discretion, but it is important to ask other guests for permission beforehand.

Vegetarians should inform the host in advance, as meat dishes such as beef and lamb are commonly served—and in generous portions.