Page 56 - INTERNATIONAL SOS PR REPORT - MARCH 2024

3/11/24, 11:28 AM International SOS highlights need to prioritise mental wellbeing and health during holy month of Ramadan | Web Release
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:

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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