Cairo has officially unveiled the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), a long-awaited cultural landmark celebrating the country’s rich ancient heritage. The opening ceremony, held near the iconic Giza Pyramids, drew world leaders, monarchs, and dignitaries, marking what the Egyptian presidency called “an exceptional event in the history of human culture and civilisation.”

A Two-Decade Project Showcasing Ancient Egyptian Treasures

The Grand Egyptian Museum, two decades in the making, spans 24,000 square metres (258,000 square feet) of exhibition space. It houses massive statues, ancient artefacts, and relics representing Egypt’s millennia-old civilization. Two dedicated halls display the entire collection of King Tutankhamun, featuring 5,000 artefacts for the first time since British archaeologist Howard Carter discovered the tomb in 1922 in Luxor.

The museum’s 12 main galleries, opened last year for limited previews, exhibit items from prehistoric times to the Roman era, organized by era and thematic significance. Visitors will experience a comprehensive journey through Egypt’s history, combining archaeological discovery with modern museum design.

President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi highlighted the significance of GEM on social media, stating:
“The museum brings together the genius of ancient Egyptians and the creativity of modern Egyptians, enhancing world culture and art with a new landmark that will attract all those who cherish civilisation and knowledge.”

Mega-Project for Cultural and Economic Revival

GEM is one of several megaprojects initiated by el-Sisi since taking office in 2014, aimed at reviving Egypt’s economy and infrastructure. The $1 billion museum project, which began in 2005, faced multiple delays due to political instability but was finally completed ahead of its grand opening.

The surrounding area has been modernized to accommodate tourists, including new roads, a metro station near the museum, and the recently opened Sphinx International Airport, located 40 minutes from the site. A pedestrian bridge and electric vehicles provide seamless access between the museum and the Giza Pyramids, offering visitors a fully integrated cultural experience.

Architectural Grandeur and Visitor Experience

The GEM’s architecture combines modern design with ancient aesthetics. Visitors are greeted by a grand six-storey atrium staircase, lined with statues, leading to panoramic views of the Giza Plateau. The museum emphasizes both accessibility and spectacle, ensuring a world-class experience for international and domestic visitors alike.

Tourism and Economic Prospects

Egypt hopes GEM will significantly boost tourism and foreign currency inflows, crucial for stabilizing its economy. In 2024, a record 15.7 million tourists visited Egypt, contributing roughly 8% to the country’s GDP. The government aims to increase this figure to 30 million annual visitors by 2032. GEM is expected to attract both short-term visitors and long-term cultural tourists, supporting local businesses and the broader economy.

The museum will open to the public starting Tuesday, November 4, 2025, offering a full exhibition of King Tutankhamun’s treasures alongside other Egyptian antiquities.

GEM: A Landmark of World Heritage

The Grand Egyptian Museum not only preserves and displays Egypt’s ancient civilization but also represents a global cultural landmark, highlighting the ingenuity of Egypt’s past while promoting modern cultural engagement. It is poised to become a major hub for scholars, tourists, and anyone passionate about history, archaeology, and world heritage.