For millions of Muslims across the U.S., Ramadan is a sacred month of fasting, prayer and self-reflection. In 2025, it begins at sundown on February 28 and concludes with Eid al-Fitr on March 30. While fasting is a key component, Tyler Mallari of the Zakat Foundation explains, “Ramadan is a time for Muslims to come together, focus on their spiritual and personal development, and spend time giving charity and gathering with their community for prayers and events.”
For those in public accounting, Ramadan often overlaps with one of the most demanding periods of the year – busy season. With CPAs regularly logging 50-80 hour weeks, balancing long workdays, tight deadlines and observing Ramadan can be incredibly difficult. Many Muslims will fast from dawn until sunset and as one Reddit user in r/Big4 put it – “fasting is tough during busy season.” Another in r/Accounting added – “That’s no food, no water (nor coffee) or even cursing when my excel sheet fails or the client acts up.”
Fostering an inclusive workplace with small gestures of understanding can make a significant difference in supporting fasting colleagues – helping them feel understood while ensuring they can perform at their best. Ultimately, when teams support each other, everyone benefits.
How to support colleagues observing Ramadan
1. Create an inclusive work environment
Supporting colleagues during Ramadan starts with awareness and open conversations. CPA firms acknowledging Ramadan in internal communications, sharing educational resources and encouraging open discussions can help foster a culture of empathy and support. As social impact consultant Sarah Karim explains, “Ramadan is generally a very festive time for Muslims – […] many love talking about it, and generally, appreciate being able to do so.”
2. Offer flexibility
Fasting affects everyone differently, so a one-size-fits-all approach isn’t necessarily the right solution. Before making any adjustments, managers should have open conversations with employees to find the best solution for their individual needs. Karim explains, “A myth or misconception that I’d like to correct is the notion that Muslims may not work during Ramadan – if anything, […] many will restructure their day to aim for the highest productivity.”
Offering flexible work arrangements – such as adjusting start and finish times or allowing remote work when possible – can help employees manage their energy levels more effectively. As one Reddit user in r/Big4 noted, “Luckily I get to WFH during this month.”
Though special treatment isn’t expected or always possible, as Reem Nasr puts it, “It really feels nice and good to be recognized.” Simple accommodations – like encouraging employees to use breaks strategically for rest instead of meals or scheduling important meetings earlier in the day when energy levels are higher – can make a big difference and help fasting colleagues continue to perform at their best.
3. Show thoughtful support
Another meaningful way to support colleagues observing Ramadan is to ensure they have a quiet space to pray. As Saosan S highlights, “If there is no wellness room, this is also the time I think it makes sense to make a push for one, and support from non-Muslim colleagues would go far.” If your office already has a quiet space, make sure it’s accessible and respected.
Finally, and perhaps most challenging during busy season, support observing colleagues in leaving the office on time for Iftar (the evening meal to break the fast) without guilt or pressure. Small considerations like these help foster a more inclusive and understanding workplace.
At Distinct, we work closely with CPAs and firms across the East Coast, gaining first hand insight into the challenges of busy season and the need for a supportive, inclusive workplace. If you’re looking for advice on the public accounting market or want to strengthen your team, reach out today to see how our recruiters can help.
