Beyond Check-Ins: How Hotels and Resorts Can Become More Muslim-Friendly During Ramadan

Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, is a time of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection for Muslims worldwide. For the Muslim-friendly hospitality sector, responding effectively to the needs of travellers during this period is essential in providing a seamless and enriching experience. By making thoughtful adjustments, hotels, restaurants, and travel services can ensure that their guests feel comfortable and supported throughout their Ramadan journey.

Understanding the needs of fasting guests

Ramadan is a sacred time of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims. From dawn until sunset, fasting individuals abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs. Hotels that wish to welcome Muslim travellers during this period should focus on key aspects such as meal timing, prayer facilities, and overall comfort.

Suhoor and Iftar – Tailored dining services

One of the most essential services a Ramadan-ready hotel can offer is flexible meal options. Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, needs to be available in the early hours, while Iftar, the meal that breaks the fast at sunset, should be served promptly and traditionally with dates and water. Many hotels can go a step further by offering in-room Suhoor options for guests who prefer privacy or convenience.

Buffet spreads for Iftar should include nutritious and culturally diverse options, catering to travellers from different backgrounds. Additionally, some hotels collaborate with local mosques or Islamic centres to offer guests community Iftar experiences.

Dedicated prayer spaces

Muslims observe five daily prayers, with additional nightly prayers (Taraweeh) being significant during Ramadan. Hotels can enhance the experience for fasting guests by providing designated prayer areas equipped with prayer mats, Qur’ans, and appropriate directional markings for Qibla (the direction of prayer), and ablution (wudu) facilities.

For hotels near mosques, offering complimentary transport for guests to attend congregational prayers can be a valuable service.

Fasting-friendly amenities

Hotels can further support fasting guests with small yet meaningful touches, such as:

• Placing dates, water, and a prayer schedule in rooms for guests to break their fast comfortably.
• Adjusting spa and fitness centre hours to accommodate guests who prefer to exercise after Iftar.
• Adjusting housekeeping schedules to minimize disruption during fasting hours.
• Training staff to understand Ramadan customs, ensuring respectful and informed service.

A business opportunity with a moral compass

Embracing Ramadan-ready hospitality is not just about catering to a niche market; it aligns with the growing trend of ethical and inclusive tourism. As more destinations recognize the value of Halal tourism, hotels that adopt these practices can attract a loyal base of Muslim travellers while also fostering a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.

As the global travel industry evolves, ensuring that hotels are equipped to accommodate Ramadan travellers is a step toward greater inclusivity, cultural awareness, and business growth. Whether through Suhoor services, prayer spaces, flexible services, or staff training, making small but thoughtful adjustments can significantly enhance the experience of fasting guests. Thoughtfulness and inclusivity not only improve guest satisfaction but also establish long-term loyalty, making hotels and accommodations the preferred choice for Muslim travellers during Ramadan and beyond.