Page 63 - INTERNATIONAL SOS PR REPORT - MARCH 2024

3/11/24, 11:29 AM PRESSR: International SOS highlights need to prioritise mental wellbeing and health during holy month of Ramadan — TradingVi…
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:

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.

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