This collaboration aims to position GEM as a regional and global center of excellence in archaeology and Egyptology.
The partnership, formalized through a Record of Discussions, focuses on three primary areas: conducting advanced research on GEM’s extensive collection, preserving and restoring artifacts, and launching specialized training programs to foster knowledge exchange between GEM and heritage institutions across Egypt and the wider MENA region.
Ahmed Ghoneim, CEO of GEM, emphasized the strategic importance of this partnership, stating, “It represents a critical step in realizing the museum’s scientific and educational mission, and in positioning it as a beacon of archaeological research and expertise.”
JICA President Akihiko Tanaka reaffirmed JICA’s commitment to long-term cooperation, highlighting the significance of such initiatives in supporting cultural heritage preservation and academic collaboration.
“This partnership comes at a critical time as we approach the long-anticipated official opening of the GEM on July 3,” added Ghoneim. “It represents a strategic step in realizing the museum’s scientific and educational mission, and in positioning it as a beacon of archaeological research and expertise.”
JICA has previously provided financial assistance to GEM, including a ¥34.8 billion ($392 million) loan to cover Phase III of the museum’s construction, exhibition and interior design, landscape and urban design, and ICT components. JICA's total contribution to GEM is estimated at $800 million.
Additionally, JICA has been instrumental in supporting the development of the Greater Cairo Metro Line No. 4, which will connect central Cairo with the GEM and the Giza plateau. The project, estimated to cost ¥552.4 billion ($3.8 billion), is expected to alleviate traffic congestion and stimulate tourism in the region.
The GEM, located near the Giza Pyramids, is one of Egypt’s most significant national projects and a global cultural icon.
It houses over 100,000 artifacts from ancient Egyptian civilization, including the complete collection of King Tutankhamun’s treasures.
The museum is currently in a soft-opening phase, giving visitors access to select highlights, including the Hanging Obelisk Plaza, the atrium with its towering statue of Ramses II, and the dramatic Grand Staircase, lined with monumental artefacts and offering panoramic views of the Giza Pyramids.
Guests can also explore 12 main galleries from the Pre-Dynastic to the Greco-Roman era, a Children’s Museum, and a commercial zone featuring restaurants and cafés.
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