Hosting during Ramadan
As we approach the holy month of Ramadan this year, we’ve been speaking with our hosts who have shared how they have supported guests who observe Ramadan in previous years.
We don’t ask our guests or our hosts their religion or beliefs, but your guest may choose to share if they are observing Ramadan this year. Our best advice for you is to speak to your guest about this and ask what they might need at this time. Don’t be afraid of asking questions but do respect what they choose to share with you.
About Ramadan
Ramadan is a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community for Muslims around the world. It is a time for spiritual growth and self-discipline. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and it involves abstaining from food and drink from sunrise to sunset.
Here are some key points to keep in mind regarding Ramadan:
| Fasting Hours |
Muslims fast from dawn (Suhoor) to sunset (Iftar). This includes abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and things considered as a sin in Islam. Some guests may experience fatigue or low energy during the day due to fasting. They also might avoid much talking due to that. |
| Suhoor and Iftar | Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal before the fast begins, while Iftar is the evening meal to break the fast. Both meals hold cultural and religious significance. |
| Iftar | Muslims often gather with family and friends for Iftar. Some guests may wish to attend community events or prayers at the mosque during this time. |
| Tarawih | A collective night prayer after Iftar. Some guests might wish to attend it in mosque, that would mean they may be back to their hosts a bit later than usual. |
Hosting during Ramadan
Hosts have shared with us that they:
- Respect the Fasting Hours: Ask your guest if they would like you to avoid offering food or drinks during daylight hours and be mindful of their fasting commitment.
- Give a place for Suhoor and Iftar: If possible, provide a quiet and private space for Suhoor and Iftar. Respect their preferences for these meals and try to be flexible with your hosting arrangements.
- Have open communication: Not all Muslims will be observing Ramadan for personal reasons. Discuss with your guest how they would like to observe Ramadan and if there are any specific needs or preferences they have during this time. Some guests might not wish to sit on a table where there’s alcohol, so it might be useful to discuss whether they would like to eat on their own or cook for themselves. They might like to invite you to break their fast with them on occasion.
- Understand changes in behaviour: you may find that your guest sleeps later, or may be more reserved than you are used to during Ramadan. Where you can, accommodate the changes they need, but don’t forget your house rules for hosting.
If you are observing Ramadan
Make sure you apply exactly the same rules as above, let your guests know what this means, and how you observe if you are happy to do so. Let them know how they can support you.
Further help
Of course, if you are currently hosting with us, your Placement Coordinator is always here to help you, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or get in contact with them.