Time Difference Between Dubai and England
The time difference between Dubai and England is 4 hours for most of the year, and 3 hours during the summer months in the UK.
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Dubai is always ahead. It is located further east, so the sun rises and sets earlier there than in England.
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Dubai does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST).
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The UK does observe Daylight Saving Time.
This leads to two distinct time differences throughout the year:
1. During UK Winter Time (GMT)
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Period: Last Sunday in October → Last Sunday in March
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UK Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
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Dubai Time Zone: Gulf Standard Time (GST) – which is GMT+4
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Difference: Dubai is 4 hours ahead of England.
Example:
If it is 10:00 AM in London, it is 2:00 PM in Dubai.
2. During UK Summer Time (BST)
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Period: Last Sunday in March → Last Sunday in October
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UK Time Zone: British Summer Time (BST) – which is GMT+1
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Dubai Time Zone: Gulf Standard Time (GST) – which is GMT+4
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Difference: Dubai is 3 hours ahead of England.
Example:
If it is 10:00 AM in London, it is 1:00 PM in Dubai.
Summary Table for Easy Reference
| UK Period | UK Time Zone | Dubai Time Zone | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Late Oct → Late Mar | GMT | GST (GMT+4) | Dubai is 4 hours ahead |
| Late Mar → Late Oct | BST (GMT+1) | GST (GMT+4) | Dubai is 3 hours ahead |
Why Does the Time Difference Change?
The change occurs solely because the United Kingdom moves its clocks forward one hour for British Summer Time (BST) to make better use of daylight in the evenings. Dubai’s time remains constant throughout the year.
Tips for Scheduling Calls & Meetings
To avoid confusion when planning a call or virtual meeting:
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Always specify the time zone. For example, “Let’s meet at 3 PM UK time / 6 PM Dubai time.”
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Use a world clock tool. Websites like TimeAndDate.com or a simple Google search for “London time” and “Dubai time” will give you the current, accurate time in both locations instantly.
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Be mindful of the switchover weekends. The clocks change on different weekends in March and October, so it’s wise to double-check the time during these transitional periods.
This simple guide ensures you’ll always get your timing right when connecting between Dubai and England.