Morocco is preparing to shift its clocks forward by an hour on Sunday, April 6, 2025, moving back to GMT+1 at 2 a.m. This change, expected but still controversial, marks the country’s return to daylight saving time under Decree 2.18.855, a regulation in place since October 2018 that establishes the nation’s official time system.
During the holy month of Ramadan, Morocco temporarily switched to standard GMT time, making daily fasting and prayer schedules easier to manage. But this yearly pause reignites a familiar debate: should the country stick with GMT+1 year-round, or reconsider the current arrangement?
Each time the clocks shift, criticism floods social media. For many, the transition feels disruptive and unnecessary. People complain about the toll it takes on their sleep, health, and daily routines. The backlash is especially strong among parents and workers, who say the change creates chaos in households and schools alike.
One recurring issue is the darkness that greets students in the early mornings, especially during winter. Parents say the change forces children out of bed while it’s still night, making the journey to school exhausting. Some kids even fall back asleep on the way. Families also report having to turn on lights long before sunrise, calling into question whether the switch actually saves any energy at all.
Despite the backlash, the government continues to stand by the current system, arguing that GMT+1 better aligns Morocco with its global economic partners. But for critics, international convenience shouldn’t outweigh public well-being. Many believe the health and comfort of citizens—especially vulnerable groups like children—should be prioritized over trade and logistics.
So while the clock is set to jump forward once again this April, the broader debate remains unresolved. The time may change, but the controversy around it shows no sign of slowing down.
