Page 52 - INTERNATIONAL SOS PR REPORT - MARCH 2024

3/12/24, 11:28 AM International SOS highlights need to prioritise mental wellbeing and health during holy month of Ramadan – Executive Bulletin
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

also be encouraged as it is vital for maintaining energy levels, mental clarity, and focus, all of which are crucial for
workplace performance.

3. Promote flexible working arrangements: Consider offering flexible working arrangements, such as adjusted start and

finish times to accommodate individual needs. Additionally, be understanding if employees require more breaks or need to

adjust their break timings for prayers.

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