Time in Morocco: the Time Difference Since the Return to GMT
Many sites still say Morocco is on GMT+1. That stopped being true in September 2026, and it affects your flight, ferry and tour times.
Since 20 September 2026, Morocco has been on GMT (UTC+0) all year, Ramadan included. It is therefore the same time as the UK in winter and 1 hour behind in summer, and 1 to 2 hours behind central Europe. The change comes from decree no. 2.26.530, published in the Official Bulletin on 29 June 2026, which repealed the GMT+1 introduced in 2018.
The time difference by country
| From | In winter | In summer |
|---|---|---|
| UK, Ireland | Same time | Morocco 1 h behind |
| France, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Spain | Morocco 1 h behind | Morocco 2 h behind |
| Montreal, New York | Morocco 5 h ahead | Morocco 4 h ahead |
Example: when it is 12:00 in London in December, it is also 12:00 in Marrakech.
What changed in 2026
Morocco had used GMT+1 since 2018, with a temporary return to GMT during Ramadan. Decree no. 2.26.530, adopted on 25 June 2026, repealed that system: clocks went back one hour on 20 September 2026 at 2 am. Ramadan 2027, expected around 8 February, will therefore be the first since 2018 without a clock change. Only a new government decision could alter this.
What it means for your trip
- Tickets: times are always local; check connections and your return.
- Tours: confirm the pick-up time, especially if you booked using older information.
- Evenings: the sun sets one hour earlier on the clock than before September 2026.
- Phone: set the time to automatic, and check any manual watch or alarm.
For Ramadan, see travelling in Morocco during Ramadan.
Where to stay
Plan a light first evening, especially if you arrive late. See where to stay in Marrakech and your first trip to Morocco.
See hotels in Marrakech· Booking.comFree cancellation on many properties · the best-rated places fill up firstNo prepayment needed on many offers: lock in your room now
Compare flights and hotels on Trip.com· Trip.com
Book your arrival transferYou will be redirected to our partner GetTransfer.See also Morocco in winter and the cost of a trip to Morocco.
FAQ — time in Morocco
What is the time difference between Morocco and the UK?
Does Morocco change its clocks for Ramadan 2027?
When did Morocco return to GMT?
Is Morocco behind central Europe?
In short
- GMT all year since 20 September 2026.
- Same time as the UK in winter, -1 h in summer.
- No change for Ramadan 2027.
