NEW YORK—At sundown on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, the month of Ramadan officially began. Celebrated by over 1 billion Muslins worldwide, Ramadan is the holiest month in the Muslim calendar. For thirty days (this year, from March 22 to April 21), millions will fast from sunup to sundown every day. The month also involves prayer, charity, community time and introspection for Muslims everywhere, including those who do not fast during the month. Islam is the third most popular religion here in the U.S.

According to Pew Research, there are over 3 million Muslims in the country—which means Ramadan is a major holiday for a major portion of Americans, and one that should not be overlooked by small businesses.

CNN Travel offers a simple, easy to understand guide to Ramadan for non-Muslims and those who don’t celebrate, including what to know about the holiday and what to remember when spending time with people celebrating Ramadan this month. On social media, independent ECPs and other small businesses are taking a moment to wish patients and customers a Ramadan Mubarak, too. Feel free to get inspired and take some ideas—there’s a full month ahead. 

The team at Henry Ford OptimEyes in Michigan wished patients a Happy Ramadan on Instagram. Image via hfoptimeyes on Instagram


In Pearland, Texas, the Progressive Eyecare team chose a beautiful graphic to wish patients a Ramadan Mubarak. Image via progressiveeyecare1 on Instagram


In the UAE, Nazaraath Optical Store shared an opti-themed Ramadan graphic to kick off the holy month. Image via nazaraath on Instagram


If you have any employees or patients observing Ramadan, it might be a good idea to go over opening hours and reiterate them, as many people’s schedules can change vastly throughout this month. In Dubai, maintenance company Projexive Technical Services shared their Ramadan hours on social media in an easy to read graphic. Image via projexivetechnical on Instagram