Traveling during Ramadan with Diabetes

Managing diabetes while traveling during Ramadan requires careful planning to balance fasting, blood glucose control, time zone changes, and fluctuating meal schedules.

 

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While you are away Arrow icon
Fasting Arrow icon
On the road Arrow icon

Preparing

During Ramadan, a sacred month for Muslims, most Muslims will follow the core practice of fasting during daylight hours; this means no eating, drinking, smoking or even chewing gum throughout the day.

For many, this period of abstinence is dedicated to prayer, reflection, and acts of charity. 1

The advice for people who are traveling during Ramadan is no different to other diabetic travelers when it comes to speaking to your doctor, getting vaccines, medication and documentation ready, and collecting information about the destination you are planning to visit.

It's also important to identify the nearest hospital or clinic, particularly if you have any specific health concerns.

If you are traveling to Saudi Arabia during Ramadan for Umrah, you can find additional advice on these websites:2

 

While you are away

It's important to understand how Ramadan is practiced in the country you're visiting, as customs and regulations can vary. In some Muslim countries, it is against the law to eat or drink in public during daylight hours in Ramadan. Be mindful of those observing the fast and always follow Ramadan-related rules in public spaces.

Once you arrive, seek guidance from locals, such as your family, hotel staff, tour guides, or business contacts, if applicable.

 

If you're fasting during your trip

    • Stay well-hydrated during the hours when you're not fasting.
    • Make sure to have nutritious and balanced meals during non-fasting hours.

To minimize the risk of injury or illness, take practical safety measures when around water, driving, or using public transportation and taxis.

Practice good hand hygiene and follow any public health guidelines set by local authorities, especially during the festive season. Be mindful of food and water safety recommendations. Protect yourself from insect bites. Always use suitable sun protection.2

 

On the road: special advice for traveling during Ramadan

  • Consider limiting unnecessary trips during Ramadan to reduce risks.
  • Avoid long drives, early morning trips, driving within two hours before sunset, and traveling in poor weather conditions.
  • If you must take a long trip, be sure to take regular breaks to rest and check your blood sugar levels.
  • Keep hypoglycemic medications in the car at all times, including a properly-stored Glucagon Injection Kit, even while fasting.
  • Pay attention to early signs of hypoglycemia, such as hunger, sweating, or dizziness.
  • If you experience hypoglycemia, pull over immediately, turn off the engine and remove the keys. Then, consume fast-acting carbohydrates like glucose tablets or candy, followed by slow-release carbs to stabilize your levels.3

The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your healthcare practitioner for personalized advice tailored to your specific needs and health condition.

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References:

1. Gov.uk. Travelling during Ramadan. Published May 2, 2013. Accessed Mach 24, 2025. Available from: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travelling-during-ramadan

2. TravelHealthPro. Travelling for Ramadan. Published February 5, 2025. Accessed Mach 24, 2025. Available from: https://www.travelhealthpro.org.uk/news/824/travelling-for-ramadan

3. Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia. Diabetes-related Diseases: Safe Driving in Ramadan. Accessed Mach 24, 2025. Available from: https://www.moh.gov.sa/en/HealthAwareness/EducationalContent/Diseases/diabetic/Pages/Safe-Driving-in-Ramadan.aspx