Page 25 - INTERNATIONAL SOS PR REPORT - MARCH 2024

3/11/24, 11:26 AM International SOS highlights need to prioritise mental wellbeing and health during holy month of Ramadan
International SOS highlights need to prioritise

mental wellbeing and health during holy month

of Ramadan

International SOS highlights need to prioritise mental wellbeing and health during holy month of
Ramadan

UAE, March 10, 2024 – International SOS, the world’s leading provider of medical and security services,
reminds everyone observing Ramadan to prioritise their safety and health by providing expert advice and
personalised support. The holy month of Ramadan is due to start this year on or around March 11, and Muslims
across the globe are preparing to begin a period of fasting and introspection. Fasting hours vary by location and
will gradually increase throughout the month, as the time to start the fast (Imsak) and end it (Iftar) is directly
related to when the sun rises and sets. While this period allows for significant personal growth, International
SOS emphasises the importance of approaching it with a focus on both mental and physical health.

“This year, we want to emphasise the importance of prioritising mental health and wellbeing during Ramadan.
During the holy month of Ramadan, while many find it a time for spiritual reflection and growth, it is important
to acknowledge that the changes in routine and physical demands of fasting can impact on employees’ mental
and physical wellbeing. Organisations can help employees navigate the month by safeguarding their health,
wellbeing and fostering a more inclusive and understanding work environment.” says Dr Nosa Aihie, Regional
Medical Director, Offshore and Medical Services, Middle East, International SOS.

Dr Nosa Aihie elaborates: “Adequate hydration and a balanced diet during Suhoor and Iftar are crucial.
Prioritising sleep and ensuring a healthy balance between work, rest, and leisure activities are equally important
practices for maintaining wellbeing during Ramadan. This is further supported by the UAE’s Ministry of Human
Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), which has announced a two-hour reduction in working hours per day for
private sector employees during Ramadan. Companies are also encouraged to implement flexible or remote
working arrangements within the confines of regular working hours to further support employees and their
needs.”

Gulnaz Ukassova, Security Director, Information & Analysis Mashreq & Iran, East & Southern Africa,
International SOS, also highlights the importance of staying safe during Ramadan, stating, “The Islamic
holy month of Ramadan is an important period for observant Muslims across the world. In many
countries across the Middle East and North Africa, local businesses and government offices adjust
working hours for that period. It is also important that mobile workers and foreign residents familiarise
themselves with the cultural norms and practices in their location during Ramadan. For example, in some
countries, even those who do not fast may be expected to also refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking
in public during daylight hours.”

Gulnaz adds, “Attending public gatherings and celebrations, particularly during Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end
of Ramadan and is a public holiday in many countries across the region, requires situational awareness and
measures to ensure safety and overall well-being.”

International SOS provides the top four tips for organisations to support employees observing the fast this
Ramadan:

https://uaenews4u.com/2024/03/11/international-sos-highlights-need-to-prioritise-mental-wellbeing-and-health-during-holy-month-of-ramadan/ 1/2