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Ramadan 2025: UAE experts reveal which side is healthier to sleep on during fasting
A study highlighted that 84 per cent of females choosing to sleep on their side, compared to 77 per cent of males
- PUBLISHED: Wed 19 Feb 2025, 5:30 AM
A recent sleep survey has found that an overwhelming 80 per cent of UAE residents prefer sleeping on their side, a position linked to improved brain cleansing during deep sleep.
Medics also highlighted that as Ramadan approaches, sleep positioning also plays a crucial role in digestion, energy levels and overall health, especially during fasting periods.
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The study by Premier Inn Middle East additionally pointed out a significant gender difference, with 84 per cent of females choosing to sleep on their side, compared to 77 per cent of males.
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While side sleeping remains the dominant choice, 11 per cent of males prefer sleeping on their back and 12 per cent on their front, slightly higher than 10 per cent and 6 per cent of females, respectively.
Reduced risk of snoring
Natalie Pennicotte-Collier, global sleep expert and author of ‘Sleep Reset – The New Tools of Rest and Recovery’, said: “A key factor in restful sleep is your preferred sleeping position. While most people naturally prefer a particular sleep posture, each position has its unique advantages and disadvantages.
“It’s great to see so many side sleepers in the UAE; based on decades of brain and immunity sleep studies, this position might facilitate better cleansing of the brain during deep sleep compared to back or front sleeping. Side sleeping also offers many other potential benefits, from better spinal alignment to a reduced risk of snoring.”
Doctors emphasised sleep is vital for health, for which creating a quiet distraction-free environment is key, to get deep and restorative rest.
Sleeping on which side?
Dr Khalid Mamdooh Alkubaisy, a specialist in Internal Medicine, Medeor Hospital, Abu Dhabi, said: “Sleeping on the left side offers several health benefits. It aids digestion by supporting gastric emptying and reducing acid reflux, making it easier for the body to process food efficiently. This sleeping position also supports detoxification by promoting lymphatic drainage, helping the body effectively remove toxins and maintain overall well-being.”
Sleeping during Ramadan
With Ramadan around the corner, medics stressed that choosing the proper sleep position can significantly impact digestion particularly after Suhoor and Iftar.
He added, “Lying down too soon after eating can lead to bloating and acid reflux, so it is advisable to wait at least 1-2 hours before going to bed. Sleeping on the left side aids gut motility, reducing the risk of constipation and promoting smoother digestion. Additionally, taking a short post-meal walk helps improve glucose metabolism, making it particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes.”
Healthcare professionals explained that as the stomach and pancreas are positioned towards the left side of the body, therefore, when lying on the left, gravity can assist the digestive process. This potentially aids the movement of food through the stomach and intestines.
Dr Najeeb Salah Abdulrahman, Specialist Gastroenterologist, International Modern Hospital, Dubai, said: “Sleeping on the left side can promote better circulation, which is essential during fasting when hydration and electrolyte balance are more critical.” He added, “Aim for at least six to eight hours of sleep by dividing rest into two segments — one before Suhoor and another nap after Fajr if possible.”
Medical professionals reiterated adopting effective sleep strategies is essential to maintaining energy levels during Ramadan.
Dr Karima Arroud, Consultant, functional medicine and aesthetic, Wellth, said: “Sleeping on the left side is thought to reduce pressure on the heart as well, improving circulation and supporting lymphatic drainage. While evidence is still evolving, this positioning may ease the strain on the heart, particularly for those who are older or have underlying cardiovascular concerns.”
