What is Ramadan?
In 2020, Ramadan will be from 23/24 April to 23/24 May 2020. It is the holiest month of the year for Muslims as it is when the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Muslims around the world fast during daylight hours, meaning they abstain from eating, drinking or engaging in sexual relations for the duration of their fast. Young children, pregnant women, the old, the sick and travellers are examples of those who are exempt from fasting. Click here for Ramadan health factsheet (PDF).
Up until now patients, medics and scholars would try to work out where exactly the line was between health & fasting. The British Islamic Medical Association (BIMA) have created this peer reviewed document that brings together a range of literature reviews. Please note however clinicians must exercise discretion based on each individual patient.
Aside from fasting, Muslims observing Ramadan also increase in spiritual devotional acts such as prayer, giving charity and strengthening family ties. Muslims, are encouraged to share their food with friends, family and neighbours and to reach out to those who may be fasting alone, to share their Ramadan experiences.
In 2020 Ramadan will be a very different experience for Muslims all over the world due to the COVID-19 restrictions. Read on below for further COVID-19 guidance including #RamadanAtHome, or click here to read the full Ramadan 2020 guidance (PDF).