Benin is a country located in West Africa, bordered by Togo, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Niger, with a coastline along the Atlantic Ocean in the Gulf of Guinea. The country is known for its historical kingdoms, vibrant culture, and strong traditions connected to the Kingdom of Dahomey.
The official capital is Porto-Novo, while Cotonou serves as the largest city and economic center of the country. Benin has a rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, festivals, and spiritual practices such as Vodun (Voodoo), which originated in the region.
Benin is also known for its wildlife reserves, beaches, and historic sites related to the transatlantic slave trade.
Current Time
- Time Zone: West Africa Time (WAT)
- UTC Offset: UTC +1
- Daylight Saving Time: Not observed
- IANA Time Zone: Africa/Porto-Novo
Benin keeps the same time throughout the entire year.
Quick Facts
- Capital: Porto-Novo
- Largest City: Cotonou
- Continent: Africa
- Population: ~13 million
- Official Language: French
- Currency: West African CFA Franc (XOF)
- International Dialing Code: +229
- Internet TLD: .bj
- Major Cities: Cotonou, Porto-Novo, Parakou
Time Difference From Major Cities
| City | Time Difference |
|---|---|
| Sydney | Benin is 10 hours behind |
| London | Benin is 1 hour ahead |
| New York | Benin is 6 hours ahead |
| Dubai | Benin is 3 hours behind |
| Tokyo | Benin is 8 hours behind |
(Time differences may vary if other countries observe daylight saving time.)
Daylight Saving Time
Benin does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
The country remains on UTC +1 year-round.
Best Time to Call Benin
If calling Benin from different regions:
From Australia
- Best time: 5 PM – 9 PM Sydney time
From United Kingdom
- Best time: 9 AM – 4 PM London time
From United States
- Best time: 7 AM – 11 AM New York time
These time windows usually align with daytime business hours in Benin.
Frequently Asked Question
What time zone is Benin in?
Benin uses West Africa Time (WAT) which is UTC +1.
Does Benin observe daylight saving time?
No. Benin does not change clocks for daylight saving time.
What is the capital of Benin?
The capital city is Porto-Novo.
Which continent is Benin in?
Benin is located in West Africa.
What was Benin formerly called?
Benin was formerly known as Dahomey before changing its name in 1975.
Where Is Benin Located?
Benin is located in West Africa along the Gulf of Guinea.
Neighboring countries include:
- Togo (west)
- Nigeria (east)
- BurBurkina Fasokina Faso (northwest)Niger (north)
The country has a narrow southern coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.
What Is Benin Famous For?
Benin is famous for:
- The historic Kingdom of Dahomey
- The lake village of Ganvié, built on stilts
- The cultural city of Ouidah, linked to the slave trade history
- Traditional Vodun (Voodoo) religion
- Wildlife reserves such as Pendjari National Park
Additional Note
Benin operates on West Africa Time (UTC +1) across the entire country. Since the country does not observe daylight saving time, the local time remains consistent throughout the year.
