Discover the New GEM
Nestled just 2 km from the famed Pyramids of Giza on the outskirts of Cairo, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is a monumental achievement in cultural heritage and design. Officially opened to the public on 04 November 2025, after decades of construction, GEM stands as the world’s largest archaeological museum dedicated to a single civilization.
What Makes GEM Special?
Spread across nearly 500,000 m², the GEM complex includes not just galleries but a conservation centre, a children’s museum, conference facilities, landscaped gardens, and the Khufu Boat Museum. The architecture, by Heneghan Peng Architects, feels both timeless and cutting-edge: the building’s design echoes the pyramids through its clean lines and triangular geometry, while a massive glass atrium frames panoramic views of Giza.
Entering the museum, visitors are greeted by the giant 83-ton statue of Ramses II, which has been carefully relocated from Ramses Square in Cairo. From there, a six-storey Grand Staircase lined with over 60 artifacts leads you into the heart of the museum.
What’s Inside: The Treasures
GEM’s 12 main galleries are arranged chronologically and thematically, tracing Egypt’s history from prehistoric times through the Pharaonic dynasties, right up to the Roman era. But the very crown jewel of the collection is the complete Tutankhamun treasure, bringing together over 5,000 artifacts from the boy king’s tomb including his golden death mask, throne, chariots, jewellery, and more, many of which have never before been displayed together.
Also on display is a 4,500-year-old solar boat belonging to Pharaoh Khufu, one of the best-preserved ancient boats in Egyptology.
Visitor Experience & Early Reviews
During soft-opening trials, up to 4,000 people per day were admitted to test logistics, crowd flow, and gallery design. Reported reactions have been overwhelmingly positive: visitors praised the museum’s scale, the clarity of its exhibits, and the way it brings Egypt’s history to life through multimedia and interactive displays.
That said, some early visitors and commentators note a sense of formality and grandeur that feels very “state of the art” very different from the dusty charm of the old Tahrir Museum.
Tips for Travellers
Book early With GEM aiming to cap daily visitors (reports suggest around 20,000/day) to preserve visitor experience, advanced tickets are highly recommended.
Combine with Giza Plateau tour Since GEM is so close to the pyramids, it's natural to pair your museum visit with a trip to the Pyramids and Sphinx especially as improved infrastructure now includes electric shuttles.
Bring a guide To get the most out of the 12 galleries and the rich storytelling, a knowledgeable Egyptologist or licensed guide can be very helpful.
Time your visit wisely Expect some sections (especially the Tutankhamun galleries) to be especially popular. Aim for mid-morning or weekday visits if possible.
Stay hydrated and plan for downtime The complex is huge, and you may need breaks in the café, gardens, or outdoor terraces.
Why It Matters
For Wanderlust Travel Experts, GEM is more than just a museum it’s a symbol of Egypt’s renewed commitment to its cultural legacy and tourism future. Its opening marks a turning point: a world-class institution that not only preserves ancient treasures but presents them in a way that resonates with modern audiences. For luxury travellers, history buffs, and families alike, GEM offers a deep, immersive experience into the heart of Pharaonic Egypt like never before.