Grand Egyptian Museum Opening 2025: Everything Muslim Travellers Need to Know

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Pyramids of Giza, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is poised to become a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and Muslim travelers alike. As the world’s largest archaeological museum dedicated to a single civilisation, the GEM offers an immersive journey through Egypt’s rich heritage, featuring over 50,000 artifacts—including the full tomb collection of King Tutankhamun, displayed together for the first time.

For Muslim travellers, the museum's strategic location near key historical and Islamic sites makes it an ideal addition to any Egyptian itinerary. With dedicated prayer spaces, halal dining options nearby, and its proximity to Cairo’s vibrant Islamic heritage sites, the GEM provides a seamless experience for visitors who wish to explore Egypt’s past while accommodating their faith-based needs. As the museum prepares for its grand opening on 3 Jul 2025, travellers can anticipate an extraordinary cultural experience.

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Exhibitions and highlights

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The Grand Egyptian Museum boasts an extensive collection of over 50,000 artifacts, with approximately 15,000 currently on display. Among the most significant pieces is a 3,200-year-old statue of Ramses II, alongside the meticulously recreated Tomb Chapel of Khnumhotep II. Additionally, the museum showcases never-before-seen artifacts sourced from various locations, including Cairo, Luxor, Minya, Sohag, Assiut, Beni Suef, Fayoum, the Delta, and Alexandria.

Image credit: Adventures With Shrouk | Official Facebook

One of the museum’s most anticipated exhibitions is the complete collection of King Tutankhamun’s tomb, which will be displayed together for the first time. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to explore these treasures in a setting designed to evoke the grandeur of ancient Egypt.

Architecture and location

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Spanning approximately 500,000 square meters, the Grand Egyptian Museum blends contemporary design with ancient inspiration. Its prime location near the Giza Plateau offers visitors stunning views of the iconic pyramids, further enhancing the immersive experience of being surrounded by Egypt’s rich history.

Current visitor experience

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As of 16 Oct 2024, the GEM has been partially open to the public. Twelve main galleries provide a comprehensive overview of Egypt’s ancient history, covering periods from the Old Kingdom to the Graeco-Roman era. Additionally, visitors have access to the Grand Staircase, an open-air gallery featuring over 60 historically significant artefacts.

The museum also caters to younger audiences through the Children’s Museum, which offers interactive displays designed to engage and educate future generations about Egypt’s historical and cultural legacy.

Operating hours and ticketing information

The Grand Egyptian Museum operates daily from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm, with gallery access available from 9 am to 5 pm. To allow sufficient time for exploration, visitors are advised to arrive by 4 pm.

Tickets can be purchased online through the official GEM website or on-site. Additionally, guided tours led by Egyptologists are available in multiple languages, offering in-depth insights into the museum’s vast collection.

A journey through time

Image credit: Adventures With Shrouk | Official Facebook

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The Grand Egyptian Museum serves as more than just a repository of ancient artefacts; it acts as a bridge connecting modern audiences to Egypt’s storied past. Whether exploring for academic enrichment, personal curiosity, or faith-based travel, visitors will find an experience that offers unparalleled historical depth. With its upcoming grand opening in 2025, the GEM is set to become a premier destination for travellers worldwide, providing a deeper understanding of Egypt’s remarkable legacy.