Page 28 - INTERNATIONAL SOS PR REPORT - MARCH 2024

3/11/24, 11:27 AM International SOS highlights need to prioritise mental wellbeing and health during holy month of Ramadan | UAE News 24/7
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.

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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:

1. Foster Open Communication: Encourage open
communication by having a clear and inclusive policy on
religious observance in the workplace. This demonstrates
respect for employees’ personal beliefs and allows them to be
comfortable in discussing their needs during Ramadan.
2. Prioritise Employee Health and Well-being: Remind
employees to stagger their hydration during non-fasting hours
and consume nutrient-rich meals during Suhoor and Iftar. The
best way to rehydrate fasting bodies and keep them hydrated
for longer is to pace the liquid intake by drinking at least two
litres of water between Iftar and Imsak. Quality sleep should

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