Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, is a small island nation located in Southeast Asia. It occupies the eastern half of the island of Timor and shares a land border with Indonesia. The country also includes several smaller nearby islands in the region.
The capital city Dili sits along the northern coast and serves as the country’s political, economic, and cultural center. Timor-Leste gained independence in 2002, making it one of the newest countries in the world.
The country is known for its scenic coastlines, coral reefs, mountainous landscapes, and unique blend of Portuguese and Southeast Asian cultural influences.
Current Time
Time Zone: Timor-Leste Time (TLT)
UTC Offset: UTC +9
Daylight Saving Time: Not observed
IANA Time Zone: Asia/Dili
Timor-Leste keeps the same time throughout the entire year.
Quick Facts
- Capital: Dili
- Continent: Asia (Southeast Asia)
- Population: ~1.4 million
- Official Languages: Tetum, Portuguese
- Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
- International Dialing Code: +670
- Internet TLD: .tl
- Major Cities: Dili, Baucau, Maliana
Time Difference From Major Cities
| City | Time Difference |
|---|---|
| Sydney | Timor-Leste is 2 hours behind |
| London | Timor-Leste is 9 hours ahead |
| New York | Timor-Leste is 14 hours ahead |
| Dubai | Timor-Leste is 5 hours ahead |
| Tokyo | Timor-Leste is the same time |
(Time differences may vary depending on daylight saving time in other countries.)
Daylight Saving Time
Timor-Leste does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
The country remains on UTC +9 year-round.
Best Time to Call Timor-Leste
If calling Timor-Leste from other regions:
From Australia
- Best time: 10 AM – 4 PM Sydney time
From United Kingdom
- Best time: 6 AM – 10 AM London time
From United States
- Best time: 8 PM – 11 PM New York time
These time windows generally align with working hours in Timor-Leste.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time zone is Timor-Leste in?
Timor-Leste uses Timor-Leste Time (TLT) which is UTC +9.
Does Timor-Leste observe daylight saving time?
No. Timor-Leste does not change clocks for daylight saving time.
What is the capital of Timor-Leste?
The capital city is Dili.
Which continent is Timor-Leste in?
Timor-Leste is located in Southeast Asia.
Is Timor-Leste a new country?
Yes. Timor-Leste gained independence in 2002.
Where Is Timor-Leste Located?
Timor-Leste is located in Southeast Asia.
Neighboring regions include:
- Indonesia (west)
- Australia (south across the Timor Sea)
The country occupies the eastern part of the island of Timor in the Lesser Sunda Islands region.
What Is Timor-Leste Famous For?
Timor-Leste is famous for:
- Beautiful tropical beaches and coral reefs
- Cristo Rei of Dili, a famous hilltop statue
- Scenic mountain landscapes
- Rich Portuguese colonial heritage
- Emerging diving destinations in Southeast Asia
Additional Note
Timor-Leste operates on a single national time zone (UTC +9). The country does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains consistent throughout the year.
