Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) 2026: Everything to Know

Nowadays, one of the most anticipated attractions on an Egypt tour should be the Grand Egyptian Museum. Although the opening of the museum has been postponed several times due to multiple different reasons, it is now finally fully open to the public.

For those who have been waiting for this important project for a long time and for those who have few ideas about the museum, we would like to show you the charming points of the museum and all you need to know for visiting it.

Can I Visit the Grand Egyptian Museum Now

Inside the Grand Egyptian Museum

Yes. The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is officially open to the public on November 1st, 2025.

All the galleries, halls, and exhibitions are accessible, spanning Egypt's entire ancient history and showcasing 100,000 artifacts. Sure, you can also see the iconic King Tutankhamun treasures.

Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) Opening Hours:

• GEM Complex: 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM (Wednesdays & Saturdays will have extended hours: 8:30 AM - 10:00 PM)
• Galleries: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Wednesdays & Saturdays will have extended hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM)
• Last Ticket Purchase: 5:00 PM (Wednesdays & Saturdays will be 8:00 PM)
• Ramadan Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (for both GEM Complex & Main Galleries)

How Much Will It Cost for Visiting GEM

There are two types of tickets for the Grand Egyptian Museum. The standard admission ticket includes entry only, while the guided tour ticket comes with a group-guided visit. Prices vary accordingly:

Ticket Type	Admission Ticket	Guided Tour Ticket
Adult	EGP 1,450 (~USD 30)	EGP 1,950 (~USD 42)
Child (6–12 years old)	EGP 730 (~USD 15)	EGP 980 (~USD 21)
Student (13–25, with valid student ID)	EGP 730 (~USD 15)	EGP 980 (~USD 21)

Important notes:

• GEM no longer sells tickets on-site. All tickets must be booked online in advance. The official ticket booking site is [visit-gem.com].
• Each day has 8 entry time slots, and you must select one when booking. Visitors are expected to enter during their chosen time slot, although there is sometimes limited flexibility (entry may still be allowed 1-2 hours later).
• After completing the payment, you will receive a ticket voucher by email. Be sure to save the PDF, as it serves as your entry pass to the museum.

The guided tour ticket includes a shared group tour, which may not fully match your personal interests. If you prefer a private guided experience with more flexibility and in-depth explanations, feel free to contact Odynovo. We can help design a tailored Egypt tour that includes a visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum and take care of everything, from ticket booking to transportation and accommodation arrangements.

What to See in the Grand Egyptian Museum

King Tutankhamun's Collection

This is the centerpiece of the museum, showcasing the incredible treasures discovered in the pharaoh's tomb in the Valley of the Kings, including his famous golden masks, sarcophagi, golden beds, chariots, and around 7,000 other pieces of treasure.

Unlike in the old Egyptian Museum, where all the collections were simply displayed in the showcase, in the new museum visitors will be able to learn more about Tutankhamun's detailed life.

The Grand Staircase

As soon as you enter the museum, you'll walk up the impressive Grand Staircase, lined with massive statues of Egypt's greatest pharaohs. One of the most striking is the colossal statue of Ramses II, which greets visitors near the entrance. The staircase also features statues of other notable rulers and deities, setting the tone for the grand scale of the museum.

The Grand Staircase in GEM

The Solar Boat of Khufu

One of the museum's most extraordinary pieces is the Solar Boat of Pharaoh Khufu, which was discovered next to the Great Pyramid at Giza. This ancient boat, over 4,500 years old, was built to carry the soul of the pharaoh into the afterlife. It has been painstakingly restored and now stands as a testament to the ancient Egyptians' advanced shipbuilding skills.

Galleries Covering 3,000 Years of Egyptian History

The museum has thousands of artifacts on display, showcasing ancient Egyptian life, culture, and religion.

The artifacts cover the period from the early civilizations of the Prehistoric to Second Intermediate Period to the imperial might of the New Kingdom and the cultural fusion of the Third Intermediate to Graeco-Roman Period. You can explore:

• Mummies and Sarcophagi: See intricately decorated sarcophagi and preserved mummies of both royals and commoners.
• Daily Life in Ancient Egypt: Exhibits showcasing tools, pottery, clothing, and household items that give a glimpse into the everyday lives of ancient Egyptians.
• Temples and Statues: Large-scale statues, stelae, and carvings from temples offer insight into the spiritual and ceremonial aspects of Egyptian life.

  A Gallery in the GEM

The Conservation Center

One of the most innovative features and attractive spots of the Grand Egyptian Museum is its conservation center. The center is equipped with advanced technologies and facilities to protect and preserve the museum's vast collection. It is designed to offer visitors a behind-the-scenes view of the museum's conservation process. Visitors will be able to get a deeper understanding of the work required to protect and maintain these priceless treasures.

How Long Should I Plan for Exploring GEM?

The museum is enormous. Even if you are focusing only on the main galleries and signature exhibits, such as the Grand Staircase and key masterpieces like Tutankhamun's treasures, you will still need at least 3-4 hours.

So, to enjoy the Grand Egyptian Museum without feeling rushed, we recommend planning around 6 hours. Thus, you can explore the major exhibition halls at a comfortable pace, follow the storytelling, and still have time for short breaks.

For museum lovers, history enthusiasts, or travelers who want deeper context and detailed explanations, a full day at GEM can be very rewarding.

A practical tip: visiting with a private guide can make a big difference. A knowledgeable guide helps you explore the vast space efficiently and focuses on what interests you most. Also keep in mind that distances inside the museum are large, so comfortable walking shoes and short rest stops are essential.

Where is the Grand Egyptian Museum?

It's located just a short drive from the bustling city center of Cairo, with a stone's throw from the Pyramids of Giza (about 2 kilometres), which means it is super convenient for you to explore both ancient wonders in a single day.

Location Map of the Grand Egyptian Museum

How to Get to the Grand Egyptian Museum

There will be multiple ways to access the new Grand Egyptian Museum. The museum is built near the Cairo Ring Road, which is a highway that circles around the city. It is around a 17-minute drive from the city center.

It is also very convenient to use a taxi to arrive at the museum, which only costs 1 to 2 dollars from downtown Cairo.

Other than using cars, there is a metro line currently under construction that links the city and the museum. The new Sphinx International Airport, which is only 20 minutes away from the museum, is in its final testing period, but once it's completed, it is also possible to have faster access to the museum after you get off your flight.

Attractions Around the Grand Egyptian Museum

Pyramid and Sphinx

The Giza Pyramids

Egyptian Pyramids, which tourists from all over the world visit, are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of the most popular tourist pyramids in Egypt is the Great Pyramids of Giza.

If you purchase a ticket to visit the interior, you'll be able to go inside the pyramid and feel the mystery of it.

The Great Sphinx

Right next to the Pyramids, the Sphinx is a sacred Egyptian creature with a human face and a lion's body and is enshrined in Giza as the guardian deity of the three pyramids. Carved out of a limestone hill, the sculpture is 73.5 meters long, 20 meters high, and 19 meters wide. The Sphinx is one of the most popular spots to take an iconic photo of your Egypt tour.

Where to Stay Near the Grand Egyptian Museum

Steigenberger Pyramids Cairo

The location of Steigenberger Pyramids Cairo makes it one of the best choices for exploring the Grand Egyptian Museum. It is directly opposite the new Grand Egyptian Museum and situated just 3 kilometers from the Great Pyramids of Giza. The hotel features elegantly appointed rooms and suites, many boasting private balconies or terraces with breathtaking views of the pyramids. Also included are two outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, and a spa offering a range of treatments, ideal for you to relax after a day of exploration.

Marriott Mena House

Marriott Mena House is a 5-star luxury hotel that is the closest to the pyramids among all the luxury hotels. It is a resort hotel rather than a tourist hotel, fully equipped with services and facilities such as spas and restaurants. Other than the diverse international restaurants, 24h in-room dining services such as breakfast and evening snacks are also available. The hotel has been renovated which makes it a nice point that the room and the bathroom are very clean. Pyramids can be seen from a lot of places in the hotel and there are many photogenic spots.

Barcelo Cairo Pyramids Hotel

If you're seeking comfortable, affordable, and convenient accommodations near the Grand Egyptian Museum, the Barceló Cairo Pyramids Hotel is a great choice. Located on Sharia Al Haram, famously known as Pyramid Street, this hotel is just about a 15-minute drive to get to the Grand Egyptian Museum. Some of the rooms offer impressive views of the pyramids. You can also unwind in the heated outdoor pool and enjoy panoramic vistas from the 12th-floor terrace.

What Will Happen to the Old Egyptian Museum

As the main ancient Egyptian collection has been gradually transferred to the Grand Egyptian Museum, many people may wonder what will happen to the old Egyptian Museum. However, it's worth noting that some artifacts, particularly those that are too fragile or large to be moved, will remain at the old museum.

The old Egyptian Museum is a historic building that was founded in 1892 and has been in operation for more than a century. There are plans to demolish the old building and modernize it to improve the visitor experience and ensure the long-term preservation of its collections.

Hassle-Free Trip to Egypt With GEM

If you are searching for a travel plan that covers the Grand Egyptian Museum and other attractions as well, feel free to contact us to make the most of your journey. Our experienced travel professionals will create a tailor-made itinerary according to your interests, schedule, and budget.