It’s finally happening. After years of anticipation, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM),  one of the most ambitious cultural projects in modern history, is opening its doors this November. Set against the backdrop of the Giza Pyramids, the museum has been more than 20 years in the making, bringing together Egypt’s timeless history and modern innovation in one extraordinary space.

The Big Day

The official opening ceremony will take place on Saturday, November 1st, 2025, with an unforgettable performance led by Maestro Nayer Nagui, who will conduct Music for Humanity alongside 120 Egyptian and international musicians. The orchestra will feature soloists, brass players, and choir members from 79 different countries, with music composed by Hisham Nazih.

While the opening ceremony is invite-only, attended by world leaders, dignitaries, and cultural representatives, the museum will officially open to the public on Tuesday, November 4th.

Inside the GEM

The Grand Egyptian Museum isn’t just a building, it’s a journey through over 700,000 years of history, showcasing more than 100,000 artifacts from Egypt’s past. Visitors will explore 12 main galleries, with exhibitions arranged around three interconnected themes: kingship, society, and beliefs.

From the colossal statue of Ramesses II to the Victory Column of King Merneptah, each corner tells a story of power, craftsmanship, and faith. And for the first time ever, all 5,400 treasures of Tutankhamun,  including his iconic golden mask, will be displayed together, offering an unprecedented look into the life of the “Boy King.”

Beyond its world-class galleries, the Grand Egyptian Museum offers an experience that extends far beyond history. Families can step into the Children’s Museum, where interactive exhibits bring ancient Egypt to life through play and curiosity, or wander through the outdoor gardens, where modern architecture meets the timeless backdrop of the pyramids.

When it’s time for a break, the museum’s cafés and restaurants promise something for every mood. Zooba serves a true taste of Egypt with warm taameya and fresh baladi bread, while Bittersweet offers an international menu for those craving something familiar. 30 North is the perfect spot for a morning espresso before your tour, and if your day calls for a little indulgence, Ladurée and Mandarine Koueidar fill the air with the scent of pastries and delicate desserts.

The museum’s commercial area rounds out the experience with local flair, browse elegant designs from Okhtein, explore handcrafted linens, porcelain, and jewelry, or find thoughtful souvenirs at the Egyptian Museum Gift Shop. Whether you come for the history, the culture, or simply the atmosphere, the GEM invites every visitor to experience Egypt in their own way.

A Legacy Reimagined

Built on a 50-hectare site overlooking the Pyramids, the GEM stands as a symbol of Egypt’s resilience and pride. Construction began back in 2005, overcoming years of environmental, financial, and political challenges. Today, the museum represents not just the preservation of the past, but a bold step into the future, one where culture, education, and technology meet.

CAC and the GEM

Our CAC students had the chance to explore the museum during its soft opening phase, walking through the vast Grand Hall, standing beneath towering statues, and retracing the footsteps of the pharaohs. Every corner seemed to breathe life into Egypt’s history, making it feel less like a visit and more like a journey back in time. They also spent time in the Children’s Museum, a place built to spark curiosity through play and storytelling. But what truly captivated them was the mixed reality experience, where ancient Egypt wasn’t just seen, but heard and felt, through sound, light, and motion that brought the past right to their fingertips.

As part of our Egypt Culture Program, which is one of our signature programs, students from around the world learn to connect deeply with their host country, its history, its language, and its traditions. Visiting the GEM was more than just a field trip; it was a moment of belonging, of seeing the stories they learn in class rise from the pages and stand right before them.

Visiting Tips

Take your time: Even during its soft opening, the Grand Egyptian Museum is enormous, give yourself at least a few hours to explore!

Plan ahead: Check the museum’s official channels for updated opening hours and ticket information, as details may change leading up to the full launch. Currently, entry tickets start at $4 for Egyptians and $25 for other nationalities, with additional tours available for the GEM Children’s Museum.

Come curious: Bring questions about what these artefacts reveal about ancient life, how museums help us understand history, and what stories we’re still uncovering today!