The Grand Egyptian Museum , a monumental $1.2 billion project located near Cairo's Pyramids Plateau, is set to officially open its doors in November 2025. This state-of-the-art facility aims to showcase Egypt's rich ancient heritage, housing over 100,000 artifacts, including 5,600 items from King Tutankhamun's tomb.
Although the museum began a limited public trial in October 2024, the full inauguration is eagerly anticipated. The GEM is poised to become the world's largest museum dedicated to a single civilization, offering visitors an unparalleled glimpse into Egypt's ancient past.
Egypt's investment in the GEM is part of a broader strategy to revitalise its tourism sector, which has faced challenges due to regional instability and economic strains. The country anticipates welcoming 18 million tourists in 2025, up from 15.7 million in 2024, with tourism revenue reaching $8 billion in the first half of the year. The GEM is expected to play a pivotal role in attracting higher-spending cultural tourists, thereby bolstering Egypt's global standing in heritage and luxury tourism.
The museum's design, crafted by the renowned architect Tadao Ando, features a three-story building with two basement levels and a ground floor, all spanning 34,000 square feet. The structure's large roof is intended to evoke mountain ridge lines, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding landscape. A café on the north side of the ground floor offers visitors a terrace view of the Seto Inland Sea, enhancing the cultural experience.
As the GEM prepares for its grand opening, it stands as a testament to Egypt's commitment to preserving and celebrating its ancient heritage. The museum is set to become a beacon for cultural tourism, offering an immersive experience that highlights the country's rich history and artistic achievements.
