How Ramadan will affect your travels in Muslim countries varies across the Islamic world, within these

countries, and even among the populations themselves.

No – but you need to be aware of the local laws and respect the regional customs. Most Muslim

countries, including 28 in Africa accept that foreigners won’t be fasting and many major hotels will

continue to serve food. Keep in mind that in some countries like the United Arab Emirates and

Qatar it is illegal to eat, drink, or smoke in public during Ramadan.

In other places, like Turkey, many restaurants will be open (varies by city), however they might

not serve alcohol for the length of Ramadan. Turkey Travel Planner points out that while it is not illegal,

it is Impolite too eat, drink and smoke in public or around those fasting.

Always look up the local and national laws regarding Ramadan and check with your embassy (you can find yours)

What Are The Advantages Of Visiting During Ramadan?

The restaurants may be closed, but many of the tourist sites, museums, and banks across these Muslim nations

in Egypt and Indonesia and elsewhere will be open – with fewer crowds.

 

 

 

You can even join in an Iftar (breaking of the fast) at local restaurants, which will be packed around sundown.

It’s advisable to avoid the roads around this time as they will be packed and accidents tend to increase as

people rush to meet family in time to eat.

Some Other Things To Keep in Mind

• It varies but in many places but (women especially) may be expected to dress (more) modestly.
• Expect drums and load music around 3am from the streets. This is done to wake people for Sahur, the early
•  morning meal before the fast begins.
• Ramadan ends with a 3-day holiday (Eid al-Fitr) and everything (banks, stores, museums) will be closed;
• plan accordingly.