Rabat– Morocco will shift back to its regular time system during the night between Saturday, March 21, and Sunday, March 22. At 2:00 a.m., clocks across the country will move forward by one hour, restoring the GMT+1 schedule in line with the provisions of Decree No. 2.18.855 issued in 2018.
The adjustment comes after the temporary suspension of the daylight saving system during the holy month of Ramadan. On February 15, Morocco reverted to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) to better accommodate fasting hours and daily routines throughout the month.
Since 2018, the country has maintained GMT+1 as its standard time throughout the year, with a single exception during Ramadan. During this period, authorities temporarily switch to GMT to facilitate daily life, particularly for prayer schedules, working hours, and school timetables.
With Ramadan nearing its end, the return to GMT+1 is intended to restore the country’s usual rhythm of economic and social activities. The previous adjustment took place on February 15 at 3:00 a.m., when clocks were set back by one hour.
The upcoming time change coincides with preparations for Eid al-Fitr, which is expected to fall on March 20 or 21, marking the end of Ramadan. Moroccan public administrations are also set to observe an exceptional holiday on March 23.
Despite the government’s emphasis on the economic benefits of the measure, Morocco’s permanent adoption of daylight saving time continues to face criticism from many citizens. Critics have mostly pointed to the measure’s adverse impact on daily routines and well-being.
Yet authorities justify maintaining GMT+1 year-round by highlighting the need for closer alignment with the schedules of Morocco’s European economic partners.
