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Doha – Morocco will switch back to GMT+1 on Sunday, April 6 at 2:00 a.m., with clocks moving forward by one hour to 3:00 a.m.
This change, which was previously announced by the Ministry of Digital Transformation and Administrative Reform alongside February’s GMT adjustment for Ramadan, comes following Eid Al Fitr, which was celebrated on March 31.
The adjustment marks the country’s return to its standard time following the recent temporary GMT schedule that was in place during Ramadan to accommodate fasting schedules.
The time change, mandated by Decree No. 2.18.855 of October 26, 2018, has stirred continuous debate among Moroccan citizens since its permanent adoption.
While the government touts its supposed economic advantages, many citizens express strong opposition to Morocco’s now-official daylight saving time measure, particularly regarding its effects on daily life and health.
The economic rationale behind maintaining GMT+1 throughout the year centers on synchronization with European partners.
During the recent Ramadan period, when Morocco temporarily switched to GMT, businesses experienced disruptions due to time differences of up to two hours with countries like France and Spain, affecting electronic exchanges, international flights, and logistical coordination.
The tourism sector benefits directly from this temporal alignment, as the consistent time zone helps streamline operations with European travel agencies, airlines, and booking platforms.
The government maintains that this stability demonstrates professionalism to Morocco’s primary tourist markets.
Public opposition remains widespread, especially concerning the impact on children and working adults. Parents report struggling with their children’s school schedules, particularly during winter months when students must leave home before sunrise.
Read also: Benabdelkader: Year-Round Daylight Saving Time ‘Will Benefit Citizens’
Citizens have taken to social media to call for the permanent adoption of GMT, citing concerns about sleep disorders, decreased concentration, and increased stress levels.
The banking sector, commercial transactions, and foreign investments also drive the government’s commitment to GMT+1.
In today’s globalized economy, the administration puts forward the claim that temporal alignment has become essential for economic integration and commercial agility.
Morocco’s time policy has evolved over the years, with the permanent adoption of GMT+1 becoming standard practice, except for the annual Ramadan period.
Previously, the country would only switch to GMT+1 during summer months, reverting to standard time when Ramadan fell in summer.
Citizens are reminded to adjust their clocks forward by 60 minutes early Sunday morning, implementing the return to the country’s standard time as outlined in the 2018 decree regarding the country’s legal time.
Safaa Kasraoui has contributed to this story.
