The GEM Grand Hall design factors in rainfall leaks: Tourism Ministry

Nevine El-Aref , Saturday 13 Dec 2025

The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities stated on Saturday that the design of the Grand Egyptian Museum’s Grand Hall factors in rainfall leaks during the winter months, stressing that the museum remains fully operational and poses no risk to visitors or its collections.

The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)

According to the statement, the GEM has been receiving visitors regularly since its public opening on 4 November, with no changes to official operating hours. Visitor movement remains smooth and well organised, with the museum currently welcoming an average of 15,000 visitors per day, consistent with its maximum carrying capacity and planned visitor density across time slots.

To ensure efficient crowd management, visitor comfort and safety, and the protection of the museum’s collections, the ministry implemented an exclusive electronic ticketing system as of 1 December. Tickets are now available only through the museum’s official website, with on-site ticket sales discontinued. The ministry confirmed that the online booking system is operating efficiently, without technical issues, and is subject to continuous monitoring.

Addressing ticket pricing, the ministry noted that differentiated pricing for Egyptian and foreign visitors has long been applied at museums and archaeological sites nationwide. This policy, it said, is intended to keep ticket prices affordable for Egyptian citizens and to allow broader public access to the country’s cultural heritage.

The ministry also addressed minor observations related to some external flooring areas of the museum, explaining that they resulted from installations associated with the opening ceremony. Repairs are currently underway according to an agreed timetable and will be completed without affecting visitor access or experience.

Regarding the Grand Hall, the ministry explained that its architectural design incorporates roof openings to allow natural light and ventilation. As a result, limited rainwater entry during periods of rainfall is expected at this time of year and does not pose a risk to visitors or the museum’s collections.

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the Grand Egyptian Museum as a global cultural landmark and to ensuring a high-quality visitor experience for both Egyptian and international audiences.