Fez – The Moroccan government has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining GMT+1 as the country’s official legal time, despite recurring public calls to return to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
Speaking on the issue in the House of Representatives, Minister Delegate in charge of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform, Amal Fellah Seghrouchni, stressed that the current time system remains a strategic choice aimed at supporting economic activity, institutional stability and the continuity of public services.
According to the government, the decision is based on years of assessment and takes into account both economic requirements and the daily needs of citizens.
Authorities argue that the adoption of GMT+1 has helped align Morocco’s working hours with key international economic partners, facilitating trade, investment and administrative coordination.
The minister noted that the government continues to implement measures designed to reduce the impact of the time change on citizens.
These include adjustments to school schedules and other public service arrangements based on local and regional specificities, allowing greater flexibility in areas facing particular challenges.
The government also emphasized that maintaining GMT+1 supports the uninterrupted delivery of essential public services while helping preserve economic efficiency.
Officials say the policy is regularly reviewed through comprehensive evaluations and consultations aimed at balancing citizens’ expectations with the country’s broader economic interests.
Seghrouchni further underlined that the executive branch is handling the matter through dialogue, responsibility and respect for institutional processes.
The objective, she said, is to ensure long-term visibility and stability in public decision-making on an issue that continues to generate debate across Moroccan society.
While criticism and demands for a return to GMT persist, the government has made clear that it does not intend to reverse course.
Officials describe GMT+1 as a long-term strategic decision supported by adaptation measures and guided by the goals of institutional consistency and economic continuity.
For now, the government’s position remains unchanged: GMT+1 will continue to serve as Morocco’s official time standard despite ongoing public discussion surrounding the issue.
