Are you curious about the traditions and significance of Ramadan, a time observed by millions worldwide? Understanding the nuances of Ramadan, from its spiritual roots to its social customs, is a journey into the heart of Islamic culture and a way to foster greater global understanding.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a period of profound significance for Muslims around the globe. This year, as with every year, the global Muslim community is preparing to observe this sacred time. Its a period marked by intense spiritual reflection, increased devotion, and communal gatherings. It is a time when Muslims come together and support each other on the holy fast, before breaking it when the sun comes down with an iftar. A billion Muslims around the world are celebrating Ramadan.

To better understand this important period, its useful to break down some fundamental aspects. Ramadan celebrates the date in 610 c.e., according to Islamic tradition, the Quran was first revealed to the prophet Muhammad. During the month, Muslims are called to renew their spiritual commitment through daily fasting, prayer, and acts of charity. It is a time to celebrate and feel grateful for our blessings from god. The simplest way to do so is to say ramadan mubarak, which means blessed ramadan, may ramadan bring us blessings. You can tell your friends and coworkers ramadan mubarak which translates to happy ramadan.

The spirit of Ramadan isnt just about personal devotion; its also a time of community. Muslims come together to break their fast (iftar) and share meals. It is a time of family, friends, and acts of generosity, highlighting the importance of social bonds and empathy. It is also a time for giving and charity. Muslims are encouraged to increase their charitable giving during Ramadan.

Here's a breakdown of what you should know about Ramadan:

Aspect	Details
What is Ramadan?	The ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting (sawm), prayer, reflection, and community.
Fasting	From dawn until sunset, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, and sexual activity.
Suhur	The pre-dawn meal eaten before the fast begins.
Iftar	The evening meal that breaks the fast at sunset, often shared with family and friends.
Prayer	Increased focus on prayer, including the five daily prayers (salat) and special prayers like Taraweeh.
Charity	Increased acts of charity (zakat) and giving to those in need.
Quran Recitation	Reading and reflecting on the Quran is a central practice during Ramadan.
Eid al-Fitr	The celebration marking the end of Ramadan, a joyous occasion of feasting and giving thanks.

As Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection and commitment, it's a good time to be mindful of the experience of those who are observing this month. You can tell your friends and coworkers ramadan mubarak which translates to happy ramadan. It can be nice to wish those around you who celebrate ramadan a happy ramadan. A simple ramadan mubarak or happy ramadan would be a nice gesture, especially if you know your clients well enough to feel comfortable with it. You can say: Ramadan mubarak (have a blessed ramadan) ramadan kareem (have a generous ramadan) happy ramadan (a simple and widely accepted English greeting).

If you're not sure how your clients would feel about it, you could also ask them directly if they observe ramadan and if it would be appropriate to wish them a happy ramadan. To ensure a respectful environment, avoid asking someone why they are not fasting (some may be exempt). Young people also observe ramadan, and they love to be acknowledged too. Wishing you a blessed ramadan from across the miles. We're in this spiritual journey together.

There are approximately 1.8 billion Muslims around the world. With these ramadan greetings, celebrate this holy month. Learn how to wish someone a happy ramadan with these greetings and facts about the celebration. If you have Muslim colleagues, friends or neighbours, the simplest way to wish them a happy ramadan is by saying, ramadan mubarak or ramadan kareem.

The timing of Ramadan shifts slightly each year due to the lunar-based Islamic calendar. Ramadan is moving slightly earlier every year (and eid too as a result), meaning next year ramadan will start around march 1, then around february 18 in 2026, then february 8 in 2027. In 2030, it will start around boxing day.

During the month, Muslims are called to renew their spiritual commitment through daily fasting, prayer, and acts of charity. Muslims worldwide refrain from food, drink, smoking, and sexual relations from dawn until sunset, breaking their fast with a meal called iftar, typically starting with dates. Not only do you help them celebrate, but you can also offer a little support and encouragement for the coming year. May you make fast work of the fast, happy ramadan! May the light of ramadan shine on your home. Though we're apart, you're in my thoughts this ramadan.

Here are a few inspirational Eid messages for you to choose from: Let this eid be the most auspicious occasion to show your love and care for the people around you.

When Eid arrives, you can greet someone with 'Eid Mubarak,' a phrase that signifies "blessed Eid."