The Ministry of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform has confirmed that Morocco will revert to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) at 3:00 a.m. on Sunday, February 23, 2025, in observance of Ramadan.
After the holy month concludes, the country will return to daylight saving time (GMT+1) at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, April 6, 2025. This annual adjustment aligns with the country’s long-standing practice of modifying its time zone during Ramadan.
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Government rationale behind Morocco’s GMT+1 policy
Morocco has followed GMT+1 as its standard time since Decree 2.18.855 was issued on October 26, 2018. The government introduced this policy to optimise energy consumption, align business operations with European trade partners, and improve economic efficiency. Maintaining GMT+1 throughout the year, except during Ramadan, reportedly saves hours of electricity annually and reduces carbon emissions.
Proponents of the policy believe that aligning with European time zones benefits trade and commerce, reducing disruptions for businesses operating across international markets. However, recognising the significance of Ramadan in Moroccan society, the government temporarily reverts to GMT each year to accommodate fasting schedules and prayer times.
Impact of Morocco’s time change on society
The Ramadan time adjustment continues to spark debate. Many Moroccans appreciate the shift, as it eases the fasting schedule and improves daily routines during the holy month. However, critics argue that the repeated change disrupts biological rhythms, affects workplace productivity, and complicates scheduling for businesses and institutions.
Studies have shown that sudden time shifts can contribute to sleep disturbances, fatigue, and reduced concentration, especially among children and the elderly. The darker mornings brought on by the transition may also impact commuting safety and daily routines, causing temporary inconvenience.
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Future of Morocco’s daylight saving time policy
Since the introduction of GMT+1 as the standard time in 2018, Morocco has remained consistent in its approach, with Ramadan being the only exception.
While the government upholds this system as a balance between economic priorities and cultural traditions, public opinion remains divided. Some citizens call for a permanent, stable time zone to minimise annual disruptions, while others support the Ramadan adjustment.
As Ramadan 2025 approaches, Moroccans will once again reset their clocks, participating in a time change that has become an annual tradition. Whether the policy remains unchanged in the future or undergoes revisions will depend on ongoing discussions about its long-term implications.