Morocco abandons gmt+1 after years of public demand

Morocco is set to end a long-standing national debate as the government confirms the definitive return to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) this coming autumn, abandonning the previously adopted GMT+1 timezone. The announcement, delivered by Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch following a government council meeting, reflects the culmination of persistent citizen demands that have grown louder over recent years.

During a televised address to public broadcasting networks, Akhannouch detailed that the decision follows extensive consultations within the ruling coalition and a thorough evaluation of public feedback. He acknowledged that the prolonged use of daylight saving time had caused significant inconvenience for many Moroccans, prompting the executive branch to prioritize a return to standard time.

“This decision stems from a comprehensive assessment of the current daylight saving arrangement and directly addresses the recurring concerns raised by the public,” Akhannouch stated.

The move brings closure to a contentious issue that has divided opinions across the country. Critics of GMT+1 have long argued that the adjusted timezone disrupted daily routines, particularly for schoolchildren and working professionals, while supporters maintained it aligned better with global business hours. The government’s reversal signals a clear preference for aligning with the natural daylight cycles of Moroccan society.