For the UAE’s large population living with diabetes, Ramadan raises a real question: can I fast safely? The IDF, together with the Diabetes and Ramadan (DAR) International Alliance, has developed clear guidance to help people make an informed, personalized decision — not a blanket yes or no.
Risk depends on your diabetes type, control, and medication. People on insulin or certain sulfonylureas face higher hypoglycaemia risk during long fasting hours, especially in UAE summers when Ramadan fasts can stretch past 14 hours. Those with well-controlled type 2 diabetes on metformin alone are generally at lower risk.
• See your doctor 6–8 weeks ahead for a pre-Ramadan risk assessment and possible medication adjustment.
• Learn to recognize hypoglycemia symptoms and know that Islamic teaching permits breaking the fast if blood sugar drops dangerously low.
• Plan Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) around slow-digesting foods Ex- oats, lentils, yogurt rather than sugary options.
• Check blood sugar multiple times daily without breaking the fast (a finger-prick test doesn’t invalidate fasting).
• Break the fast gradually: dates and water first, then a balanced Iftar not a sudden large, fried meal.
Action step: Talk to your diabetes care team well before Ramadan to build a personalized fasting plan.
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