Ramadan 2024: Morocco Returns to GMT on March 10

As the sacred month of Ramadan approaches, Morocco readies itself to revert to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) on March 10, marking the conclusion of daylight saving time. In a well-timed announcement, the Moroccan Ministry of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform has declared the suspension of daylight savings time, returning the country to the GMT timezone on March 10, 2024, at 3:00 AM.

This decision aligns with the provisions outlined in Article 2 of Decree No. 2.18.855, issued on October 26, 2018, regarding legal time. The ministry has reassured the public that following the conclusion of Ramadan, Morocco will promptly resume GMT+1 by advancing the clocks one hour on April 14, 2024, at 2:00 AM.

Anticipation mounts as esteemed Moroccan astronomer Hicham El Aissaoui predicts that this year's Ramadan will begin on March 12. El Aissaoui forecasts a 29-day fasting period, a deviation from the usual 30-day observance. However, the Moroccan Ministry of Islamic Affairs has yet to confirm these projections, awaiting a meeting of a special committee in the coming days to conduct the traditional crescent moon sighting.

The specific date for the crescent moon sighting in Morocco remains unconfirmed, as the country adheres to the longstanding tradition of conducting the sighting a day or a few days before the start of Ramadan. This venerable practice holds great significance in the observance of the holy month.

In a considerate gesture acknowledging the impact of daylight saving time on fasting schedules, Morocco suspends GMT+1 during Ramadan. However, the country typically resumes daylight saving time (DST) a week after the conclusion of the sacred month.

Since 2008, Morocco has adopted DST during the summer months, a strategic measure aimed at boosting its national economy. This initiative, intended to curtail energy consumption and synchronize time differences with regional and international trading partners, underscores the country's commitment to enhancing competitiveness on the global stage.

As the nation prepares for the spiritual journey of Ramadan, the timely shift in timezones serves as a testament to Morocco's dedication to balancing religious observances with economic pragmatism, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between faith and modernity.