Timor-Leste
Dili
Current time
Monday, June 22, 2026
- Capital
- Dili
- Time zone
- Asia/Dili
- UTC offset
- UTC+9
Timor-Leste operates on a single time zone, Asia/Dili, which is 9 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+9). The country does not observe daylight saving time, maintaining a consistent time offset year-round. This makes scheduling with neighboring countries like Indonesia and Australia straightforward, though differences vary by region. Business hours typically run from 8 AM to 5 PM, with adjustments possible during major holidays like Independence Day (May 20) and All Saints' Day (November 1).
Time Zone and Business Hours
Timor-Leste's time zone (UTC+9) aligns closely with Japan and South Korea but differs significantly from Western regions. For example, when it’s noon in Dili, it’s 10 PM the previous day in New York (UTC-4 during daylight saving) and 3 AM in London (UTC+1 during daylight saving). Businesses in Dili typically operate from 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Friday, with a midday break common in some sectors. Government offices may close early on Fridays for prayers, reflecting local customs.
Cross-border coordination with Indonesia (which spans multiple time zones) requires attention: western Indonesia (e.g., Jakarta) is 2 hours behind Timor-Leste, while eastern Indonesia (e.g., Kupang) is 1 hour behind. For international meetings, Timor-Leste’s consistent UTC+9 offset simplifies planning compared to countries with daylight saving shifts.
Public Holidays and Timekeeping
Timor-Leste recognizes public holidays that may affect business schedules, including Independence Day (May 20) and Christmas (December 25). Unlike some neighboring countries, it does not adjust clocks for daylight saving, ensuring stable timekeeping year-round. During Ramadan, Muslim-majority areas may adjust working hours, though this is less widespread than in Indonesia.
For travelers or remote workers, internet connectivity in Dili is reliable, facilitating virtual meetings across time zones. Major events like the Tour de Timor (September) may draw international participants, requiring awareness of the 9-hour difference from UTC. Power outages, though rare in urban centers, can occasionally disrupt schedules.
FAQ
- Does Timor-Leste observe daylight saving time?
- No, Timor-Leste does not use daylight saving time. It maintains a fixed UTC+9 offset throughout the year.
- What is the time difference between Timor-Leste and Australia?
- Timor-Leste is 30 minutes ahead of Australian Central Time (UTC+8:30) and 1.5 hours ahead of Australian Western Time (UTC+7:30). During Australian daylight saving periods, the difference may vary.
- Are business hours affected by holidays in Timor-Leste?
- Yes, major holidays like Independence Day (May 20) and Christmas may lead to office closures or reduced hours. Some businesses also adjust schedules during religious observances.