After two decades of construction, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) officially opened on November 1, 2025. It is now the largest museum in the world dedicated to a single civilization, and it belongs at the top of any Egypt itinerary. Here is what you need to know before you go, from our team on the ground in Cairo.
Where it is
The museum sits on the edge of the Giza Plateau, about 2 km from the Pyramids. That makes it easy to pair with a pyramids visit on the same day, but we recommend giving the museum a full morning or afternoon on its own. It is big: the complex covers about 500,000 square metres.
What to see
The Grand Hall and Ramesses II
You enter into a soaring atrium where an 11-metre, 83-tonne statue of Ramesses II greets you. The statue stood in Cairo's Ramses Square for decades before it was moved to the museum.
Ramesses II in the Grand Hall. Photo by Aleksei Filimonov on Unsplash.
The Grand Staircase
A six-storey staircase lined with more than 60 statues, columns and sarcophagi leads you up to the main galleries. At the top, a huge window frames a view of the Pyramids. Take your time on the way up; this is one of the best parts of the visit.
The Tutankhamun galleries
For the first time ever, the complete Tutankhamun collection, more than 5,000 objects, is displayed together in one place. Two dedicated halls cover his golden mask, chariots, thrones, jewellery and everyday objects from his tomb. Plan at least an hour and a half here.
The Khufu boats
The museum also houses the solar boats of King Khufu, about 4,600 years old, which were moved here from their old museum beside the Great Pyramid.
The main galleries
Twelve main exhibition halls take you through Egyptian history from prehistory to the Roman period, with tens of thousands of objects, many on public display for the first time.
Practical tips
Book timed tickets online in advance. Entry is by time slot, and popular slots sell out. Ticket prices for foreign visitors have changed several times since the opening, so check the museum's official website for current prices before you go.
Bring a card. On-site payment is by credit or debit card.
Go early. Arriving at opening time means quieter galleries, especially in the Tutankhamun halls.
Allow 3 to 4 hours. Rushing the GEM is the most common mistake we see.
Photography: Phone photos are allowed in most areas, but flash is not permitted in the galleries. Tripods and professional equipment need a permit.
Wear comfortable shoes. You will walk a lot.
Visit with Egyptify
We can build the Grand Egyptian Museum into your trip with a guided tour, private transport between your hotel, the museum and the Pyramids, and airport pickup when you land in Cairo. Contact us or create your own experience and we will plan the day around you.