Ramadan serves not only as a sacred period for prayer, reflection, cultural bonds and festivities but also as prime opportunities for organisations to nurture relationships with their employees. As Ramadan 2024, which began on March 11, 2024, draws to a close, Eid-Al-Fitr 2024 is expected to be observed from April 8 to 14, 2024, in the Middle East region. In the spirit of Eid-Al-Fitr, the UAE government has generously granted a one-week holiday to federal employees, extending heartfelt wishes for the occasion. Likewise, employers in the region can demonstrate support and appreciation for their workforce as the festivities commence. 

Five ways employers in the Middle East can support their workers this festive season

#1 Flexible working arrangements: For Ramadan 2024, the UAE government mandated reduced work hours for federal employees during Ramadan 2024 from 9 am to 2 pm (GST), and directed private organisations to implement at least a two-hour reduction. Now, the final week of Ramadan 2024 will necessitate additional flexibility as employees engage in family gatherings for shopping and celebrations. Providing flexibility in their work schedules and offering arrangements such as work-from-home options during this period can assist employees in balancing their professional responsibilities with their personal commitments. 

#2 Promoting cultural awareness: Organisations in the Middle East cater to a global and diverse workforce, making it essential to foster an inclusive workplace culture. By organising awareness campaigns to sensitise workers about appropriate behaviour during Ramadan as well as the significance of Eid al-Fitr, organisations can promote better engagement among colleagues of different cultural backgrounds.

#3 Promoting team collaboration: With Muslim workers expected to be out of the office for at least a week, organisations can make arrangements to share their workload among colleagues during this time. This presents a great opportunity to foster teamwork spirit without adversely affecting business operations. Additionally, planning in advance for global-level meetings and deadlines will also help workers who are taking time off to celebrate Eid-Al-Fitr, thus reducing unnecessary stress.

#4 Extend wellness support: Organisations should recognise that fasting during Ramadan can be physically and mentally draining. Therefore, they can offer break-time support to their fasting employees. Additionally, in the spirit of Ramadan and Eid-Al-Fitr, they can offer nutritious iftar meals, as well as well-being and stress-management sessions to employees.

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#5 Celebrations package: Ramadan and Eid-Al-Fitr present ideal opportunities for employers to demonstrate appreciation towards their employees by offering gifts and celebration packages to them and their families. Additionally, providing special bonuses, discounts, vouchers for shopping or dining, or additional paid time off further demonstrates appreciation for employees' hard work and dedication, enhancing their overall experience. This gesture is essential for fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among employees who supported each other during Ramadan. 

Talent attraction and retention are becoming challenges in Middle East workplaces due to a lack of skilled talent, and offering benefits tailored to the needs of employees, especially during the festive season, is key to retaining skilled and valuable employees for the long term.