When doing project logistics in the Middle East, the easiest “cultural trap” is Ramadan—a holy month for Muslims (comparable to Chinese New Year) but a “speed bump” for project schedules.  

In 2022, we worked on a Saudi metro project and failed to confirm Ramadan’s date in advance. During Ramadan, workers fast from sunrise to sunset—their energy dropped by 50%, slowing construction by half. Even logistics slowed: Truck drivers, also affected by fasting, delayed JIT deliveries by 1–2 days, causing three material shortages on-site. The client nearly deducted our penalty fees.  

We later learned: Ramadan’s date changes yearly (set by religious scholars based on the moon). For heavy labor projects, progress will stall—we must adjust key work to before or after Ramadan.  

Our advice: Confirm Ramadan’s date 3 months early and stock 1–2 months of materials to avoid relying on slow transportation during the holiday. Respecting local culture keeps your project on track.