Egypt has opened several galleries at its highly anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), marking a significant step in showcasing the nation’s rich history. The museum, located next to the iconic Giza pyramids, has been under construction for more than 20 years and was originally scheduled to open in 2012. However, political instability and cost overruns delayed the grand inauguration. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly recently announced a “trial opening” before the museum’s official debut, although the specific date for this event remains unclear. While the full unveiling of the prized King Tutankhamun collection and the solar boats of Pharaoh Khufu is still pending, visitors can now explore almost a dozen galleries. This opening highlights Egypt’s long-standing commitment to preserving its cultural heritage, attracting international interest, with numerous world leaders expressing their desire to attend the formal inauguration.

The Grand Egyptian Museum aims to display not only famous Egyptian antiquities but also artifacts being repatriated from Western institutions. Ali Abu Dshish, a member of the Egyptian Archaeologists Union, stated that the museum’s launch symbolized Egypt’s capacity to recover its ancient heritage scattered around the globe. The museum’s cutting-edge facilities reflect modern advancements, making it both a tourist attraction and a national treasure. Foreign visitors, such as Russian tourist Kseniia Muse, have praised the museum for its blend of modern design and historical depth. As Egypt continues to recover from economic challenges, the GEM stands as a beacon for revitalizing the nation’s tourism sector, which remains a crucial source of foreign revenue. The government hopes the museum’s long-awaited completion will bolster tourism and showcase Egypt’s heritage on the world stage.