Travelling in Muslim-Majority Countries: Food, Dress, Mosques and Ramadan Etiquette
Pork and alcohol, why beef is not off limits, what to wear, mosque visits, and when Ramadan 2027 is expected. Simple, respectful pointers. About 7 min read · Updated 2026-11-01
Most travellers have an easy time in places like Dubai, Turkey, Malaysia or Morocco. This is not a list of scary taboos; it is a few things that make you more comfortable and show respect.
Note: Rules and strictness vary a lot between countries. Check local tourism authorities and your government's travel advice.
Food
- Pork and alcohol are haram (not permitted). Many restaurants do not serve pork; alcohol depends on the country and may be limited to hotels or licensed venues.
- Beef, chicken and lamb are fine; what matters is halal slaughter and certification. It is a myth that Muslims cannot eat beef.
- A Halal sign means the food meets halal standards.
Clothing
- Tourists are not always required to cover their hair but modest dress is advised: shoulders and knees covered, nothing too sheer or short, for men too.
- Some places are stricter. In mosques women usually need a headscarf, long sleeves and trousers or a long skirt; some mosques lend them.
Visiting a mosque
- Remove your shoes.
- Dress modestly; women cover their hair.
- Avoid the five daily prayer times and Friday midday prayer.
- Speak quietly, do not walk in front of people praying, and do not photograph worshippers.
- Some mosques have limited hours or restrict non-Muslim visitors.
Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth Islamic month, when Muslims do not eat, drink or smoke between sunrise and sunset. Ramadan 2027 is currently expected to start around 8 February and end around 8–9 March, followed by Eid al-Fitr, but exact dates depend on moon sighting.
For visitors: some restaurants open late or close by day, evenings around iftar are busy, and traffic and opening hours change. Eat, drink and smoke discreetly in public during the day; some countries have strict rules.
Public behaviour
Public displays of affection are not accepted in many places and may even be illegal. Wait for a person of the opposite sex to offer a handshake. Always ask before photographing local people, especially women.
Our take
Act like a guest: ask politely, speak quietly, dress modestly. Ten minutes on the local tourism site beats memorising a taboo list.
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