Colossal statue of Pharaoh Amenhotep III and Queen Tiye
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), an architectural marvel near the iconic Giza Pyramid complex, is on the cusp of its long-awaited opening, marking a monumental moment for Egypt and its rich ancient history. After years of anticipation, planning, and construction—exacerbated by pandemic-related delays—the mega project is finally ready to welcome the public.
As of October 2024, the museum has successfully conducted a soft launch, allowing visitors access to key areas, including the stunning Grand Hall, colossal statues along the Grand Staircase, commercial area, and exterior gardens. This initial phase provided valuable insights into the visitor experience, setting the stage for the imminent full opening of the museum’s main galleries and treasure collections.
The museum’s design, which was chosen through an international competition, reflects a modern take on ancient Egyptian culture, creating an immersive experience for visitors exploring the depths of Egyptian history and civilization.
Design and architecture of the GEM
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is an architectural marvel designed by Heneghan Peng Architects, an Irish firm. The building is strategically located just 2 kilometres from the Great Pyramids of Giza, seamlessly blending the desert landscape with the museum’s monumental architecture. This location enhances the visual connection to the ancient wonders, adding historical significance to its setting.
The museum features exhibition halls that rise up to 20 metres high, creating open-style halls to accommodate monumental artifacts. The design emphasizes immersive visitor experiences, aiming to narrate over 5,000 years of Egyptian history. With two main galleries spanning more than 7,000 square metres, visitors can explore detailed exhibits related to King Tutankhamun’s lifestyle and funerary practices. One of the halls will utilize virtual reality to explain the history of burial practices in ancient Egypt.
Colossal statue of the ancient Egyptian king Senusret I
Size and scope of the museum
The Grand Egyptian Museum is set to become the world’s largest archaeological museum, spreading across 117 acres on the Giza Plateau. It will house approximately 100,000 ancient artifacts, including the remarkable 3,200-year-old statue of Ramses II set across 484,000 square feet of floor space in gigantic museum halls.
A highlight of the museum is the complete Tutankhamun collection, displaying all 5,000 items from his tomb in a realistic setup that mirrors the original layout. Constructing the grand architectural complex presented challenges due to its massive dimensions and the specific materials needed to support its monumental structure.
Significance of the GEM for Egypt
The significance of the GEM extends beyond mere tourism; it symbolizes Egypt’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while presenting it to the world. The museum promises to be a transformative addition to the global museum landscape, attracting foreign tourists and history buffs alike. The Grand Egyptian Museum’s anticipated five million annual visitors are expected to generate substantial revenue, boosting both its maintenance and the national economy.
With plans to fully open by late 2024, GEM is not just an archaeological museum; it represents a bridge between Egypt’s illustrious past and its aspirations for the future. As the grand doors of this iconic institution are poised to swing wide, the world eagerly anticipates the ancient treasures and stories of Egyptian civilization that are waiting to be discovered.
The goddess Sekhmet with a lion’s head
Limited Access to GEM Complex Ahead of Official Launch
The GEM Complex is now providing limited access for testing operational preparedness and visitor experience in advance of the official opening. Currently, admission is restricted to the Main Galleries, Grand Hall, Grand Staircase, commercial area, and exterior gardens. Access to the Tutankhamun galleries and Salar Boat Museum will remain restricted until the official opening. The guaranteed full opening date will be announced by the Egyptian government soon.
The GEM is open from Sunday to Thursday, 9 am to 6 pm. On Friday and Saturday, the hours are extended until 10 pm. Advance reservations for guided tours are recommended.
The Journey to the Grand Egyptian Museum’s Opening
Over two decades ago, the Egyptian government recognized the need for a modern museum to showcase its rich heritage. They initiated an international design competition for a state-of-the-art facility near the iconic Great Pyramids of Giza. After years of extensive planning and development, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) has emerged as one of the most eagerly awaited cultural institutions globally.
If you’re planning a trip to Egypt and want to visit GEM, reach out to a tour operator that specializes in Egypt or a professional destination management company. They can help you book tickets and arrange a guided tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum.
For more information about Egypt, contact the Egyptian Tourism Authority. Starting December 1, 2024, Canadian passport holders will be able to obtain an electronic visa prior to travel or upon arrival in Egypt as per the Government of Canada.
With non-stop flights available from Toronto (YYZ) to Cairo (CAI) via EgyptAir, international travellers can now effortlessly embark on an unforgettable journey to witness the unveiling of this monumental museum. Get ready for an amazing adventure through ancient Egypt!
