I had a question regarding Ramadan. I'm currently in Belfast, and have some influential Saudi clients visiting in the next few days from the Mid East. My question, is do I wish them a "Happy Ramadan, Merry Ramadan, Seasons Greetings, etc...?? Or do I say anything at all? Would it be considered inappropriate to have a cup of juice, or tell them to work around my companies lunch hour, since certain members of my team cannot withstand going without 10 hours without food or water. Thoroughly confused. Help appreciated.
The proper greeting is "Ramadan Mubarak." I don't think it would be inappropriate at all for you or members of your team to eat or drink around them. They are coming to you and they should be cognizant of the fact that most people in Northern Ireland do not observe Ramadan. That being said, try to be as discreet as possible in eating and drinking.
honestly, just say happy ramadan, or ramadan mubarak... and as for having food infront of people that are fasting, its no problem, we are fasting to test ourselves, and what is fasting without having any temptations... I wouldnt offer them any food tho... but then again if they arent fasting you might be in a bad position... 3 days LEFT
I am a Muslim, and I agree with the other posts. Muslims are aware that other people, especially at school or work, aren't fasting. In my opinion, it won't bother your clients if you eat in front of them. Ramadan is a month in the Islamic calendar, so "Happy Ramadan" sounds a bit off to me. If you said "Ramdan Mubarak" that would be ideal. But you could also say "I hope you're having a beneficial Ramadan" or something along those lines.
1) Discuss business over a very long and extended lunch where you will be served a big juicy steak with potatoes smothered in gravy and a good helping of greens on the side. Eat slowly and make smacking noises as you swallow evry bite with a loud gulp. 2) Afterwards, comment on the sexiness of those "bed sheets" that Muslim women wear since you can take them off and use it for a sponatneous roll on the beach or some other place. 3) Also, try to impress them with quotes from Salman Rushdie's latest book. Then beat their heads with your shoes. 4) Go home, and think about what you've done.
btw, is a non Arab guy attempting to say "Ramdan Mubarak" to win over some clients the equivalent of a white guy saying "shei shei" or "ni hao mei" trying to score points with a Chinese chick?
No, it's the equivelant of me (a non-Christian) wishing you a Merry Christmas. BTW, that was a funny post, but only if he wants to do everything possible to lose those clients
Yeah, as long as you dont ask them to go to a restaurant with you you should be fine. Just act like its nothing and they wont care. If you make a big deal about it, only then it will be a big deal.
just ask them if youre worried. its not offensive if you'd like to ask questions about their religion. real you-want-to-know-if-this-is-okay type questions
