The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) finally fully opened on 1 November 2025. As I reported in AE 138 and 148, the museum opened in stages. It now comprises the Hanging Obelisk outside, the Grand Hall (atrium), the Grand Staircase, twelve Main Galleries with four additional ‘cave’ galleries, Khufu’s Boats Museum, and the Tutankhamun Galleries showcasing all the objects found in his tomb. All are now open.
The GEM is huge – it claims to be the world’s largest museum dedicated to a particular civilisation. Tour groups are herded through on a whistle-stop tour lasting two hours, but that can only scratch the surface. I spent three full days in the GEM on my latest visit, and I look forward to returning in the future.
Visiting the GEM
Currently, you must buy your entry ticket online before you arrive – it is not possible to buy a ticket on site. The GEM is located close to the Pyramids of Giza – a mini-road has been built between the museum and the Giza Plateau. In future it will be possible to travel between the two on electric buggies.
