As you know that Ramadan is just around the corner of 2025, starting in February and travelling during Ramadan can be a challenge yet so rewarding and a transformational experience.
It is the only holy month observed by Muslims worldwide that encompasses a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, Qur’an reading and community. Many Muslims choose to travel during Ramadan to visit family, go on pilgrimage, or simply explore new places. Travelling during this sacred month can be unique in the sense that it offers you the chance to see how different cultures observe Ramadan and celebrate the breaking of the fast.
Benefits of Travelling During Ramadan
This is an opportunity to experience different traditions and customs and learn about different ways of observing Ramadan. You should try to sample traditional foods and dishes and witness special Ramadan events and gatherings.
Challenges of Travelling During Ramadan
Difficulty finding halal food options. Adjusting to different fasting times. Limited entertainment options during fasting hours. Cultural misunderstandings or miscommunications
Tips for Travelling During Ramadan
Travelling during Ramadan can be a rewarding and enlightening experience. By embracing the challenges and opportunities that come with travelling during this holy month, you can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for different cultures and traditions. So, if you have the chance to travel during Ramadan, seize the opportunity and make the most of this special time. Safe travels!
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The Muslim holy month of Ramadan begins Friday 28 February and ends Wednesday 30 March, 2025. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and other physical needs.
Among the estimated population of 50,000 Muslims living with glaucoma in the UK, research has shown that almost half (45.5%) believe that using eye drops during Ramadan may break the fast, especially when the excess drop drains down the back of the throat and can be tasted. For people who rely on eye drops to manage their glaucoma, this concern can lead to uncertainty about whether using eye drops invalidates the fast. Therefore, they may stop using their drops or take them erratically during the month, risking permanent damage to their vision.
Glaucoma is the name of a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve. The optic nerve transfers visual information from the eye to the brain and if it’s damaged, it can result in sight loss and even blindness. Glaucoma is often caused by a build-up of fluid in the eye. This causes pressure in the eye (called intraocular pressure or IOP) to increase which damages the optic nerve. Eye drops are the most common treatment for glaucoma. They decrease the amount of fluid in the eye, either by increasing the drainage of fluid out of the eye, or by reducing the amount of fluid that is made.
Managing glaucoma eye drops while fasting during Ramadan can be challenging due to these concerns and uncertainties. However, according to the majority of Islamic scholars, eye drops are not considered to break the fast. It’s important for individuals with glaucoma to feel able to consult with religious authorities, healthcare professionals or organisations such as Glaucoma UK for guidance on managing their condition effectively while observing the fast during Ramadan.
A practical way to ensure that eye drop medication stays in your eye and doesn’t reach your throat, is to use punctal occlusion. This involves putting finger pressure at the corner of the eye, next to the nose, immediately after putting in drops and holding this for up to two minutes. This is generally good practice for anyone with glaucoma as it will ensure the eye drop stays in the eye where it can do its job and protect your vision.
For anyone who is still worried about using their eye drops during fasting hours, Glaucoma UK and partner organisations are encouraging them to use their drops between Iftar and Suhoor.
Anyone can develop glaucoma, but certain groups of people are at a higher risk.
Many people with glaucoma may not experience any symptoms in the early stages of the disease. Routine eye tests are crucial to detecting glaucoma at an early stage. If caught early, glaucoma can often be treated and managed effectively, helping to preserve your vision.
Glaucoma UK is working with healthcare professionals and partner organisations to share the Ramadan campaign poster and other campaign materials with their communities to encourage Muslims living with glaucoma to keep using their eye drops during Ramadan.
For more information, advice and handy tips, visit: glaucoma.uk/ramadan