The Grand Egyptian Museum Opens Its Doors: What You Need to Know

The Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza has partially opened to the public, revealing a treasure trove of ancient artifacts. After years of anticipation and delays, visitors can now explore its 12 main galleries, the Grand Staircase, and the Children's Museum. However, the prized King Tutankhamun collection and two King Khufu solar boats remain under wraps, with the museum’s official opening date yet to be announced.

Housing over 50,000 artifacts, the archaeological museum is considered the largest that’s dedicated to a single civilization. Some of the highlights you can look forward to include the towering 82-ton statue of Ramses II, which greets visitors at the entrance, and the Grand Staircase, lined with statues and relics. The galleries span eras from 700,000 BCE to 394 AD, offering a glimpse into Egypt’s prehistoric, dynastic, and Greco-Roman periods.

Admission tickets and 90-minute guided tours are available seven times daily, though a short tour might leave you longing for more time to immerse yourself in Egypt’s rich history. Modern multimedia displays complement ancient exhibits, such as a timeline showcasing the construction of the Pyramids of Giza and a detailed recreation of Khnumhotep II’s tomb chapel.

Notable artifacts include the Queen Hetepheres collection, featuring her bed and sarcophagus, and the oversized statue of Queen Hatshepsut offering tribute to the god Amun-Re. Visitors should plan for at least three to four hours to fully experience the museum’s offerings.

For those planning a trip, securing an international driver’s permit can make exploring Egypt’s treasures more convenient. Let our Egypt driving guide help you navigate the country’s roads. You can also craft an Egypt road trip itinerary that includes a stop at this iconic museum. With the best time to go to Egypt often being from December to February and September to November, now is an ideal opportunity to delve into its timeless wonders.