Reflection, community and support

Ramadan is a special time of year for many students and staff at Heriot-Watt. It’s a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection, but also a time for community and togetherness. This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of Friday 28th February 2025 and end on Sunday 30th March 2025, depending on the sighting of the moon. The university is dedicated to making sure that everyone observing Ramadan feels supported throughout this meaningful time.

Prayer spaces and facilities

We know how important it is to have a quiet space for prayer and reflection. That’s why Heriot-Watt has designated prayer and reflection areas across our campuses, including the Chaplaincy and Islamic Prayer Rooms. During Ramadan, there may also be extra arrangements to accommodate those attending evening prayers.

Iftar gatherings and Suhoor support

Fasting from sunrise to sunset can be challenging, but breaking the fast together makes it special. Heriot-Watt will be hosting Iftar events on campus, giving students a chance to share meals and connect with friends.

For those looking for Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal), the uni is exploring ways to make food more accessible in the early hours. This could include longer opening hours at some dining spots or designated areas where students can prepare their own meals.

Balancing Ramadan with studies

Fasting can sometimes make studying a bit more difficult, especially with assignments and exams. If you need any academic support, don’t hesitate to speak to your tutors or academic advisors. There may be options for flexible deadlines or alternative arrangements to help you stay on top of your studies without feeling overwhelmed.

Wellbeing and community support

Ramadan is not just about fasting... it’s about taking care of yourself, too. Our wellbeing services are here to support you with advice on maintaining a balanced routine, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest. If you ever need someone to talk to, there’s always someone available to help.

We also encourage students and staff of all backgrounds to get involved in iftar events and learn more about Ramadan. Keep an eye on upcoming events and updates on here and social media, and let’s make this a meaningful and inclusive month for everyone.