A chat about Ramadan with our Uber partner-drivers

We’ve been talking to two of our partner drivers, Muhammad from Stoke-On-Trent and Shear from London, about how they observe Ramadan whilst driving with Uber. They’ve given us their thoughts on what it means to them, their approach to driving and how they like to celebrate.

Uber: What is Ramadan in a nutshell?

Shear: It’s a spiritual journey, a month where you get a chance to re-evaluate your life. A spiritual reality check!

Uber: What does it mean to you and your family?

Muhammad: It is the best thing that happens throughout the year, the fasting month brings the family together. We meet to break the fast every day.

S: It opens up our heart to charity and makes us realise how lucky we are.

Uber: How do you structure your day driving with Uber and observing Ramadan?

S: Regular breaks to prevent fatigue. I prefer working early but many drivers work at night and avoid central London.

M: I break up the day between working, resting and prayer depending on how I’m feeling. It’s more like mini shift work whereas I usually come online and stay online.

Uber: How do you strike a balance between work and worship during Ramadan?

S: I don’t feel pressure to work, so if I’m having a bad day, I can pray in the car or mosque but that’s my choice and the freedom Uber gives me.

M: Uber gives me the flexibility to do less hours. Sometimes, I’ll go home and relax with our Holy Book. Sometimes I go to prayer early and relax.

Uber: How do you fast safely during in the heat?

M: I use the AC in the car, I’ll also try not to park in the direct sunshine. I also wear lighter, traditional clothes.

Uber: How do you prepare for a day of driving during Ramadan?

M: I take regular breaks during the day to break it up and stay focused. I’d advise other drivers to make sure they get enough sleep, we get really tired during fasting.

S: I eat a breakfast that will stave off hunger for as long as possible. I love the flexibility Uber gives us during Ramadan, it makes fasting more tolerable, especially during the first week.

Uber: Do you speak to many of your riders about Ramadan?

M: If they ask, we’ll talk to them about it but we don’t bring it up. A lot of customers do ask and make comments, it gives me a boost when customer compliments me.

S: No, if they ask I will but I don’t feel the need to discuss. I find most riders are aware of Ramadan and they do ask, I’m happy to talk to them if they ask.

Uber: Thanks!