Ramadan has officially started and Muslims in Glasgow and around the world will be fasting for long-hours for around 29 to 30 days.
It means they cannot eat from sunrise to sunset as they focus on prayer, charity and gratitude. Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar and the dates change every year - depending on the sighting of the moon.
It's a month of reflection and getting closer to religion as billions of Muslims, globally, observe the holy month.
READ MORE: Ramadan 2023 in Glasgow LIVE suhoor, iftar, prayer times and events
Despite fasting for several hours, their day-to-life life doesn't stop and it's about finding the perfect balance. Muslims who are fasting will still be carrying on with daily activities which includes working whether it be from home or going into an office.
Going without food and water is a challenging time especially when you've got mountains of tasks to do at work but there's some things you can do to support your Muslim colleagues who are fasting - and no doubt they'll appreciate you for it.
The Trade Union Congress published a guide on how you can best support your colleagues.
Ask colleagues if they’re observing Ramadan
Don’t be shy about asking Muslim colleagues if they will be observing Ramadan.
Some people may choose not to take part – perhaps for medical reasons – as fasting is a personal choice.
Be considerate
Ramadan should not interfere with everyday tasks at work, but fasting co-workers may be tired or lacking energy during the day.
Usually the first ten days are the hardest. If you have colleagues who will be fasting, ask them if changing some aspects of work can make it easier for them.
Be flexible
Ramadan isn’t only about not eating or drinking during daylight hours.
It usually means rising early and eating late, and may mean taking part in late night prayers at the mosque or their homes. Ramadan is usually a time for deep spiritual reflection, congregational prayers and lots of social dinners with family and friends.
Some workers may ask to change their working day or shift times, to take a shorter lunch break, or to make sure they finish on time so they can break their fast at home.
Being flexible may help people work when they are most productive.
Some workers might have additional religious commitments during Ramadan. It may be especially important to perform prayers on time through the week. Employers can help by ensuring there’s a quiet space in the workplace for prayers and by allowing short breaks.
The last ten days of Ramadan are considered to be especially holy. Some Muslim workers might decide to take time off, or ask to change their working patterns to perform all-night prayers.
The end of the fasting period
Eid ul-Fitr marks the end of the fasting period. It’s like Christmas for Muslims – the biggest celebration of the year.
There is often some uncertainty about which day Eid will fall because it depends on moon sightings, so be prepared for your Muslim colleagues not to know the exact date.
This may also impact on when they can work and how much notice they can give you, as Eid can last up to three days.
Supporting colleagues during Ramadan is part of building a culture where everyone is respected and valued.
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