Israel switches to winter time: Everything you need to know
This week, the State of Israel will officially switch to winter time. The transition will take place on the night between Saturday and Sunday, October 25, 2026. This is a permanent change that occurs every year during this period.
At 2:00 AM, we will need to turn the clock hands back one hour to 1:00 AM. The immediate implication of this change is that we will gain an extra hour of sleep on the night between Saturday and Sunday.
The switch to winter time affects our daily routine. Starting Sunday, the sun will set earlier in the evening, which will result in it being dark outside at earlier hours than during daylight saving time. Many Israelis look forward to this change as an official sign that the autumn and winter seasons have arrived.
It is important to remember that most modern smartphones and computers update automatically. However, it is worth checking on Sunday morning that your wall clocks and wristwatches are indeed showing the correct time, in order to avoid any scheduling inconveniences.