What is the difference between GMT and UTC?
GMT is often used interchangeably with UTC, but technically GMT refers to the mean solar time at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London, while UTC is a more precise standard used globally.
UTC time
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GMT
Greenwich Mean Time
12 Dec 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this area observe DST?
No, the zone does not observe daylight saving time. However, the United Kingdom switches to BST (British Summer Time) in the summer.
Which major cities follow this pattern?
London, Accra, and Lisbon follow GMT during the winter months, before switching to daylight saving schedules in the summer.
What areas share the same hours?
West African countries, including Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire, follow the same schedule as GMT year-round.
How does this compare with UTC?
GMT and UTC are effectively the same in terms of hours, but GMT is based on astronomical observations, while UTC is based on atomic time.
Why doesn't this area observe DST year-round?
The zone does not observe daylight saving time because the schedule is based on astronomical principles, and many regions that use GMT do not need to adjust for seasonal changes.
How did this system get established?
GMT was established in the 19th century as the standard for coordinating time worldwide, based on the position of the sun at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich.
What are the typical work hours here?
In places using GMT, typical work hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, aligning with the standard business schedule in many countries.
What is the economic importance of this area?
Greenwich, in the United Kingdom, is significant as the location of the Royal Observatory, the Prime Meridian, and a hub for maritime navigation and global timekeeping.