Current Time in Libya
Libyan culture regarding time
Libyan culture regarding time
Tendency to be loose with appointments
In Libya, the culture of acting precisely at the appointed time is not common, and delays of several tens of minutes are often tolerated. Even in business situations, events often do not start on time.
Prayer time is the standard of life
In Libya, where the majority of people are Muslim, five prayer times a day are at the center of the rhythm of life. Religious milestones take priority over the sense of time.
Long lunch break
Especially in summer, there is a culture of taking a long break during the day to avoid the heat. Stores and government offices may be temporarily closed in the afternoon.
Libyan values regarding time
Flexible sense of time is respected
Since "harmony in human relationships" is emphasized more than "punctuality," it is common to continue talking in the middle of a conversation without worrying about the time. The atmosphere of the place tends to take priority over time.
Emphasis on time with family and close friends
Family time is often prioritized over work and schedules, and sudden changes in schedules are easily accepted in this culture.
Lifestyle in harmony with nature and the seasons
As a remnant of the agricultural and nomadic culture, the lifestyle is formed according to natural times such as sunrise and sunset.
Things foreigners should know about time when traveling or relocating to Libya
Be lenient with appointments
It is not uncommon for things to not start on time, whether in business or private life. It is necessary to be patient and flexible.
Prayer times are an important consideration
Praying five times a day is an important time for individuals, so when setting times for meetings or interviews, care should be taken to avoid prayer times.
Lifestyle schedules change during holidays and fasting months
Daytime activity tends to be subdued, especially during Ramadan, and activity tends to be more intense at night. Business hours and traffic volume also change significantly.
Interesting trivia about time in Libya
Not finishing a business meeting on time is a sign of trust
In Libya, continuing a conversation after the scheduled time is sometimes seen favorably as a sign that relationship building is progressing.
Markets are busier in the evening than in the morning
To avoid the heat of the day, locals often start shopping in the evening, and the market becomes lively after that.
The standard is "soon" and "later" instead of time
In everyday conversation, vague time expressions such as "later" and "soon" are often used, rather than "30 minutes later" or "14:00".