Can I go to a retirement or farewell party at work?
Yes, you can. A coworker's retirement or leaving party is a chance to say thank you and wish them well, and nothing about it is religious. If it's in the office, enjoy the cake and the card. If it moves to a pub or bar, you can still join for a short time with a soft drink, or find another way to say goodbye.
Why it's worth going
People remember who turned up when they were leaving. Going to a colleague's farewell strengthens working relationships and shows warmth. Gratitude is also part of Islam: the Prophet ﷺ said that whoever is helped and says "Jazakallahu khayran" (May Allah reward you with good) has done the most he can to praise the giver (Jami at-Tirmidhi 2035). A farewell is the natural moment to say it.
You can add a short dua of your own, such as "May Allah bless your next chapter." It's kind, sincere and fits any workplace.
A party at the office
Office leaving dos are usually easy: a card to sign, a cake, a few speeches and some snacks. A few simple tips:
- Sign the card with a personal note about something you appreciated.
- Check the food before eating: gelatin, alcohol-flavored desserts and pork snacks. See How do I eat halal at work events?
- Contribute to the gift if you like. If the plan is a bottle of wine, ask to give toward something else or sign the card instead.
- Check prayer times: a short break is usually all you need.
When it moves to a pub or bar
Many farewells are held at a pub, and this is where a bit of planning helps. Scholars differ on whether a Muslim may sit in a pub for a social occasion, and many advise caution. If you decide to go:
- Go early and stay short: the first hour is usually the speeches and the thank-yous.
- Order your own drink: a soft drink or juice, so no one buys you a round.
- Avoid sitting among the drinkers and keep away from rounds and toasts.
- Leave before it gets rowdy: "I need to get home, but it's been wonderful working with you."
For more on this, see Can I go to a bar with friends if I only drink soda?
Suggest another way
If you'd rather not go to a pub at all, you can suggest a lunch, a coffee or a daytime get-together. Many colleagues are happy to have an alternative that suits everyone, and some may even prefer it. If you can't change the plan, a card, a personal chat earlier in the day or a small gift is a warm substitute. Showing up in a way that fits your values is better than avoiding everything. See Can I attend team-building events as a Muslim?
- Going to a farewell party is a kind way to say thank you.
- Say "Jazakallahu khayran" and wish them well (Jami at-Tirmidhi 2035).
- At a pub, stay short, drink soft drinks and avoid the drinking circle.
- Suggest lunch or coffee, or give a card or gift, if a pub doesn't suit you.
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