Hailed as one of the most significant cultural projects in Egypt’s modern history, the GEM is a monumental symbol of national pride, innovation, and dedication to preserving one of the world’s most extraordinary ancient civilizations.

Describing the museum as “Egypt’s gift to the world,” Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy, told Ahram Online that the GEM is a unique cultural, civilizational, and touristic achievement. It showcases ancient Egypt's brilliance alongside modern Egypt's resolve.

“The GEM is not just a museum,” Fathy emphasized, “but a living message of Egypt’s heritage, presented to the global community in a way that meets the highest international standards.”

Perched on the Giza Plateau, GEM is the world’s largest archaeological museum dedicated to a single civilization. Spanning more than 500,000 square metres, it features three main exhibition zones, including the eagerly awaited galleries of King Tutankhamun.

“For the first time in history, the full collection of the boy king’s treasures—including 5,537 artefacts—will be displayed together, completed in one place, offering visitors an unprecedented glimpse into ancient Egyptian opulence, ritual, and artistry.”

Beyond Tutankhamun’s treasures, the museum includes the Khufu Boat Museum—a remarkable feat of engineering that chronicles the relocation and restoration of one of Egypt’s most iconic ancient vessels.

The GEM also houses the world’s largest archaeological conservation centre, with cutting-edge laboratories dedicated to preserving various artefact materials.

More than just a conservation hub, the centre is set to become a regional and international research powerhouse in Egyptology. It will soon host an annual global conference bringing together leading scholars to share the latest discoveries.

Fathy confirmed that technical and artistic preparations are almost complete. Fire safety, surveillance, lighting, and exhibition technologies are undergoing rigorous final checks to ensure a world-class visitor experience.

“Everyone is working tirelessly to ensure that the opening ceremony reflects the stature of Egypt, its rich heritage, and the enormous efforts that have gone into bringing this monumental vision to life,” Fathy said.

On the promotional front, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has launched a comprehensive international marketing campaign to establish the GEM as a must-visit destination. This includes global advertising, digital outreach in key markets, and partnerships with hotels and travel companies to offer bespoke tour packages.

The ministry also organizes familiarization trips for international journalists, influencers, and tour operators while showcasing the museum at major global tourism fairs.

“The Grand Egyptian Museum represents the future of cultural tourism in Egypt,” Fathy stated. “It merges timeless history with cutting-edge technology, creating an exceptional visitor experience that connects the past with the present in a truly immersive way.”

Strategically located near the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx International Airport, the museum anchors a broader regional development plan extending to Dahshur.

This master plan aims to transform the area into an integrated tourist destination, elevating Greater Cairo’s profile and boosting demand for premium cultural experiences.

The project will increase visitors’ average length of stay, generate new tourism revenue, and meaningfully contribute to Egypt’s economy.

Calling the museum’s opening a historic moment long awaited by the world, Fathy said: “The GEM is Egypt’s fourth pyramid. It stands beside the iconic Giza pyramids as a symbol of the grandeur of ancient Egypt and a modern testament to human creativity and determination."  

“It is a cultural beacon—a symbol of our heritage, a touristic experience poised to redefine and reshape Egypt’s cultural tourism landscape and a message of peace and knowledge from Egypt to the world," he concluded.