Over three-fifths of recent MENA survey participants agreed
that the holy month of Ramadan, with its emphasis on reflection, kindness and
peace, serves to enhance morale in the workplace, according to Bayt.com’s
latest questionnaire.
More than half the 3,660 respondents indicated that they
socialize more at work during Ramadan, and a similar number perceive more
charitable activities happening within their firm.
Questions about taking time
off or traveling did not produce any noticeable shift, however, an overwhelming
majority (96.1 percent) stated that they use the time to concentrate on self-improvement,
with nearly as many (94.9 percent) giving more to charity.
A healthy number of MENA workers reported more outings with
family and friends as well as positive lifestyle choices during the month.
Suhail Masri, Bayt.com’s VP for employer
solutions, said that Ramadan offers a unique perspective for both management and
staff.
“There are substantial changes in the MENA workplace
during the month of Ramadan, and it is important for … employers, employees and
job seekers to have a clear view of what to expect during this time,” Masri said. “It is interesting that more than three in every five respondents believe
that their morale is lifted during Ramadan, which is something employers can
use to build employee loyalty, engagement, and retention.”
Bayt.com’s survey canvassed employees across multiple
nations including the UAE, Bahrain, Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait,
Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Tunisia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Yemen. The company
operates out of 14 offices in Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait,
Lebanon, Morocco, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Sri Lanka and Pakistan.
“From their side, job seekers can use the time to network
for their careers and dedicate extra time to learning,” Masri said. “Bayt.com
tools … can help. Ramadan is a month of spirituality, family and blessings
revolved around doing good deeds and practicing self-restraint, and at Bayt.com
we would like to wish everyone in the region a Ramadan Kareem.”
