JEDDAH — Ramadan is known as the month of giving, a fact echoed by 65 percent of Saudi Arabia’s expatriates who spend more on charitable acts during the month.
The results come from a GCC survey conducted on expatriate behavior and spending habits during Ramadan by Xpress Money, one of the most dependable money transfer brands in the world.
About 82 percent of expatriates in Saudi Arabia said they want to spend more time with their families during Ramadan and were more inclined to travel back home. Additionally, remittances to friends and family back home rise during the month, with 53 percent of respondents sending more money during Ramadan. However, 37 percent of respondents said they tend to spend more time on socializing with friends and relatives at iftar and suhoor events.
“Ramadan, a very important occasion in Saudi Arabia, inspires the entire expatriate community with its values. It is a month of giving and reflection. Our survey shows that expatriates in the country prioritize family and charity during Ramadan, and tend to socialize with friends as well,” said Xpress Money’s Vice President of Global Marketing, Ashwin Gedam.
Xpress Money’s Ramadan survey is part of the brand’s constant efforts to better understand and engage with its customers across the GCC.
The survey polled 570 Muslim and non-Muslim expatriates in the GCC, focusing on the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Oman. — SG
