Time Difference Between UAE and UK: Complete Guide for Travelers, Businesses & Calls
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Fatima Saif
- . December 29, 2025
- . Update: December 29, 2025 1:00 am
The concept of time difference between the UAE and the UK is essential to the travelers, businesspeople, and families plying between the countries. UAE is on the Gulf Standard Time (GST) whereas the UK is on the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) or British Summer Time (BST) based on the season. The difference affects the flight schedules, business meetings, online interviews and international calls. Herein this article we shall discuss the precise time difference, the influence of daylight saving and why you should be aware of the difference between the time in the UAE and the time in UK so that you can plan better. This guide makes it easy and straightforward whether in work or traveling.
Time Zone of UAE and UK
United Arab Emirates uses the year round gulf standard time (GST) or UTC +4. Daylight saving time is not practiced in the UAE and hence its clocks do not change.
Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) (UTc +0) is used in the United Kingdom when it is winter. Nevertheless, in summer the UK applies British Summer Time (BST) that is UTC +1.
During this change in season, the time difference between UAE and UK does not always remain the same throughout the year.
Exact Time Difference Between UAE and UK
- During UK Winter (Late October to Late March):
The time difference between UAE and UK is 4 hours.
UAE is 4 hours ahead of the UK. - During UK Summer (Late March to Late October):
The time difference between UAE and UK becomes 3 hours.
UAE is 3 hours ahead of the UK due to British Summer Time.
It is significant in changing the way meetings and international communication are arranged.
Why Time Difference Matters for Travel
On a flight between the UAE and the UK, it is better to be aware of what time it is in the UAE and what time it is in the UK so as to be less confused with arrival times and jet lag. Flights can be seen as longer or shorter based on the change of the time zone. It is wiser to be aware of this time difference and plan rest, hotel check-ins, and airport transfers with a lot more effectiveness.
Impact on Business and Work Schedules
To those professionals who have to deal with clients or teams based in the UK, time difference between UAE and UK is a significant factor in their daily business. Meetings that were scheduled in the UK morning would be in the UAE afternoon. When working in summer, work overlaps are more frequent since there is less time difference and it is easier to collaborate.
Best Time to Call Between UAE and UK
The most appropriate time to call the UAE is:
- UAE afternoon (2 PM – 6 PM)
- UK morning (10 AM – 2 PM)
This makes the arrangements of both parties convenient without interfering with the work-life balance.
