(MENAFN- The Peninsula) DOHA: Around 68% of GCC expatriates spend more on charitable acts during Ramadan, according to a survey conducted on expatriate behaviour and spending habits during Ramadan by Xpress Money.
The survey added that 74 percent of GCC expatriates said they want to spend more time with the family during the holy month, while 40 percent stated that they spend more on socialising with friends and family at ‘Iftar’ and ‘Suhoor’ events.
Additionally, remittances to friends and family back home rise during the month, with 47% of respondents sending more money during Ramadan.
“We have regularly seen a boost in remittances from the GCC during Ramadan, and our research now confirms that people are more inclined to send money to friends and family during the month,” said Xpress Money’s Vice President of Global Marketing, Ashwin Gedam.
The survey, which polled 570 Muslim and non-Muslim expatriates in the GCC – focusing on the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Oman - also showed that 3 out of 4 respondents want to spend more time with family during the holy month and are more likely to travel back home to be with them during Ramadan.
“We are seeing that Ramadan inspires social bonds, reflection and acts of charity across the board amongst expatriates, whether they observe Ramadan or not. Our survey results show that Ramadan inspires people to follow its spirit of generosity, charity, peace and togetherness,” he added.
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 Peninsula