The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is one of the most anticipated cultural landmarks of the 21st century.
Designed to house the world’s largest collection of Ancient Egyptian artifacts, the museum has finally opened its doors to the public on 4 November 2025, following a grand inauguration ceremony on 1 November.
This guide provides essential information for visiting the Grand Egyptian Museum, including opening hours, how to get there, ticket options, must-see artifacts, and practical tips to help plan your visit.
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Key Milestones for the Grand Egyptian Museum 2025
- 1 November 2025 - Official Opening Ceremony: Private inauguration attended by world leaders and cultural representatives.
- 4 November 2025 - Public Opening: GEM opened to the public with full access to all galleries.
Since 4 November 2025 - Visitor Access: The museum now welcomes thousands of visitors daily
Where can I Buy Grand Egyptian Museum Tickets & Tours?
Tickets for the Grand Egyptian Museum are in high demand following its official opening. To manage the high number of visitors, GEM tickets have been available exclusively online since December 1, 2025.
Available options include:
- Skip-the-line tickets for faster entry during peak visitor periods. ➡️ Book your ticket here
- Combo tickets: GEM + Egyptian Museum of Antiquities Skip-the-Line Tickets
- Guided tours led by professional Egyptologists, offering in-depth insights into the collections. ➡️ Reserve your spot here
- Combo tours that combine GEM entry with visits to the Pyramids of Giza or the Sphinx. ➡️ Reserve your spot here
- Grand Egyptian Museum Skip-the-Line Tickets with Private Hotel Transfers: ideal for travelers who want hassle-free transport and direct entry without waiting. ➡️ Book your ticket here
Booking ahead will allow travelers to maximize their time and experience this historic museum without delays.
Artifacts at the Grand Egyptian Museum Not to Miss
Discover below some of the most remarkable artifacts on display at the Grand Egyptian Museum; highlights that every visitor should see during their visit:
- Tutankhamun Galleries: 5,000 treasures, including the boy king’s golden mask, displayed for the first time in one place.
- Grand Staircase: An awe-inspiring procession of monumental statues leading to the galleries.
- Colossal Statue of Ramses II: A 3,200-year-old statue weighing 83 tons that greets visitors at the entrance.
- Khufu's Solar Boat Pavilion: An ancient wooden vessel over 4,500 years old, exhibited near its original setting.
- Immersive Galleries: Interactive media, atmospheric lighting, and multilingual touchscreens.
- Panoramic Terraces: From the museum terraces you can look out over the Giza Plateau, creating a powerful link between past and present
Grand Egyptian Museum Architecture & Architects
The Grand Egyptian Museum is a landmark of modern architecture that reflects Egypt’s ancient heritage in a contemporary way.
Designed by the Dublin-based firm Heneghan Peng Architects, the museum covers 480,000 m² on the edge of the Giza Plateau, making it the largest archaeological museum in the world.
Its triangular design echoes the geometry of the nearby pyramids, while the translucent alabaster façade allows soft natural light to fill the interior. At the entrance, the towering statue of Ramses II welcomes visitors into the vast Grand Hall - a symbolic bridge between Egypt’s past and present.
The museum’s layout emphasizes sustainability, accessibility, and open spaces, creating a calm, sun-lit environment where history and architecture blend seamlessly.
What are the Grand Egyptian Museum Opening Hours?
As of November 2025, the Grand Egyptian Museum operates with two different schedules:
Daily except Saturdays and Wednesdays:
- GEM Complex: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Galleries: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Last ticket purchase: 5:00 PM
Saturdays and Wednesdays:
- GEM Complex: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Galleries: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Last ticket purchase: 8:00 PM
How Long to Spend at the Grand Egyptian Museum
Plan to spend at least 3–4 hours exploring the galleries and exhibitions to make the most of your visit.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning and late afternoon are generally the best times to visit, offering fewer crowds and softer lighting inside the exhibition halls.
How to Get to the Grand Egyptian Museum [+ Map]
Where Is the Grand Egyptian Museum Located?
The museum is located at the GEM Complex, Cairo–Alexandria Desert Road, Giza, only a few minutes from the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.
See below your transport options:
- Taxi or private transfer: The most convenient option from central Cairo (20–30 minutes, depending on traffic). Many visitors prefer arranging a private transfer for a comfortable and direct trip. ➡️ Book your Grand Egyptian Museum Skip-the-Line Tickets with Private Hotel Transfers here
- Guided Tours: Several tour operators offer half-day and full-day guided tours that include hotel pickup, museum entry, and expert commentary from professional Egyptologists. Many also combine visits to the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx for a complete experience.
- Hotel transfers: Offered by many hotels and tour operators in Cairo and Giza.
- Public transport: Limited public transport options are available to the Giza area. Visitors can take the metro to Giza Station and then continue by taxi or ride-hailing service to the museum entrance.
Tip: Combine your museum visit with a tour of the Giza Plateau for a full-day itinerary.
Things to Know Before You Visit the GEM
- Tickets: Must be booked online as they are no longer sold on-site.
- Security Check: Bag screening and metal detectors are in place at the entrance—please arrive a few minutes early.
- Photography Rules: Most areas allow photography, but flash and tripods may be restricted in certain zones; check signage onsite.
- Visitor Capacity: To ensure quality experience, daily visitor numbers may be limited—advance booking helps guarantee access.
- Visitor Etiquette: The museum is a place of national heritage—please respect artifacts, do not touch displays, and keep noise to a minimum.
- Facilities: On-site cafés, restaurants, cloakroom, Wi-Fi zones, gift shops.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair access and elevators available; family-friendly with baby changing rooms.
- Dress Code & Etiquette: Comfortable shoes recommended; modest clothing preferred; food and drinks not permitted inside galleries; photography allowed in most areas (no flash in certain artifact halls).
Why Is the Grand Egyptian Museum Opening Important?
The inauguration of the GEM is one of the world’s most significant cultural events. It marks the beginning of a new era for Egyptian heritage, offering visitors a world-class museum experience and positioning Cairo as a global cultural hub. [Source: State Information Service Egypt]
What Has Changed Since the Grand Egyptian Museum Opening Date?
With the GEM now open, visitors can explore all galleries for the first time — including the complete Tutankhamun Collection, displayed in full for the first time since its discovery.
Interactive technologies, immersive lighting, and new educational exhibits bring Ancient Egypt to life in a modern setting. Early reports indicate the museum draws nearly 19,000 visitors daily during its first week [Source]. Read on to find out about more about the exhibits.
FAQ: Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) Cairo, Egypt
The official opening ceremony took place on 1 November 2025, and the museum opened to the public on 4 November 2025.
Plan at least 3–4 hours to explore the major galleries, and half a day if you wish to take your time and enjoy the full experience.
Yes—since 4 November 2025, all major galleries and spaces are accessible to visitors.
Absolutely. Many tours now include entry to GEM plus the Pyramids and the Sphinx in one day—check our recommended ticket options.
Conclusion - Grand Egyptian Museum Opening:
The Grand Egyptian Museum has opened its doors to visitors and invites you to explore an unparalleled collection of ancient treasures in a world-class setting. Whether you are seeing King Tutankhamun’s treasures for the first time or strolling the grand staircase with views of the pyramids, GEM offers an unforgettable experience. Plan ahead, book your tickets, and prepare for a journey through history.
For a complete Egypt trip, don’t miss our guides on the best eSIM for Egypt to stay connected, the best resorts in Egypt for a relaxing stay, and the best tours in Egypt, to explore the country’s treasures beyond Cairo.