The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

The long-awaited moment is finally here. On October 16, 2024, Egypt will begin the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) trial opening, a monumental event that has been years in the making. Set against the iconic Pyramids of Giza, this architectural wonder will soon be the world’s largest museum dedicated to a single civilisation, drawing visitors from across the globe.

What’s Inside the Grand Egyptian Museum?

Spanning an impressive 500,000 square meters, the GEM houses over 50,000 artefacts that tell the story of thousands of years of Egyptian history, from the pre-dynastic period to the Greco-Roman era. The museum’s centrepiece is the complete collection of treasures from King Tutankhamun’s tomb, displayed in full for the first time since their discovery in 1922—a must-see for anyone interested in Egypt’s rich cultural heritage.

A key highlight of the museum is the Great Staircase, a 25-meter-long architectural marvel that shows colossal statues, including the towering figure of Ramses II. The Children’s Museum offers an engaging experience for younger visitors, with guided tours designed for kids aged 6-12. Meanwhile, the Museum Garden—planted with species significant to ancient Egyptians—offers a tranquil space for reflection after exploring the galleries.

Trial Opening: Hours, Tickets, and What You Need to Know

The trial phase of the GEM will welcome up to 4,000 visitors per day, with opening hours from 9 AM to 6 PM from Sunday to Thursday and extended hours from 9 AM to 10 PM on Friday and Saturday. Please note that the last ticket purchase is at 4 PM on weekdays and 7:30 PM on weekends. While not all museum sections will be accessible immediately, key areas such as the Great Hall and several main galleries will be open to the public.

Ticket prices for the trial phase are as follows:

– Foreign visitors: EGP 1,000

– Children, students, and seniors (foreign): EGP 500

– Egyptians and Arab residents: EGP 500

– Children and students (Egyptians/Arab residents): EGP 250

Several groups will enjoy free entry, including:

– Children under the age of 4.

– Egyptians with special needs, plus one companion.

– Egyptian tour guides (excluding weekends and official holidays).

– First-degree family members of martyrs (excluding weekends and official holidays).

– Egyptian army veterans (excluding weekends and official holidays).

– Members of the International Council of Museums (ICOM).

To ensure a smooth visit, it is important to follow these guidelines:

– If you’re a non-Egyptian married to an Egyptian (or the child of one), you can get an Egyptian entry ticket—how’s that for a perk?

– School visits and corporate bookings must be arranged directly through the museum. Hit up learning@gem.eg or legacy.booking@hassanallam.com.

– On-site parking is available, but there’s a fee, so plan accordingly.

– Bringing outside food or drinks is a no-go, but don’t worry, the museum has you covered for refreshments.

– Feel free to snap all the Instagram-worthy pics you want, but keep it non-commercial. No detachable-lens cameras or drones are allowed.

Sustainability Meets History

The Grand Egyptian Museum is not only a treasure trove of ancient history but also a leader in sustainable design. The museum has been awarded the EDGE Advanced certification for green buildings, and it integrates solar panels, natural lighting, and efficient ventilation systems. This commitment to eco-friendly practices makes the GEM the first green museum in Africa and the Middle East.

A Cultural Milestone

With its cutting-edge exhibits, unrivalled collection of Egyptian artefacts, and commitment to sustainability, the Grand Egyptian Museum is more than just a museum—it is a cultural landmark that will bridge Egypt’s ancient past and its promising future. Visitors will have the chance to immerse themselves in a world of history, architecture, and innovation, as Egypt shares its greatest cultural gift with the world.

The GEM promises to be a must-visit destination for history lovers, families, and those captivated by the grandeur of Egyptian civilisation. With the trial opening just around the corner, the countdown to experiencing this extraordinary journey has begun.