Egypt Unveils World’s Largest Museum Dedicated to Ancient Civilisation

Egypt inaugurated the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum on Saturday, the largest museum in the world dedicated to its ancient civilisation. Located near the Giza Pyramids, the museum displays over 50,000 artefacts showcasing life in ancient Egypt. World leaders, monarchs, and heads of state attended the grand opening, describing the event as monumental in human culture and civilisation. President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi highlighted the museum’s significance in blending ancient and modern Egyptian creativity, enriching global culture and knowledge.
The museum is part of President el-Sissi’s series of megaprojects aimed at revitalizing Egypt’s economy. Security measures were heightened for the grand opening, with the government declaring a public holiday. Roads and infrastructure around the museum and Giza Plateau have been enhanced, including the construction of a metro station for improved access. The museum features a 24,000 square-meter exhibit space, beginning with a colossal statue of Ramses the Great at the entrance.
The museum’s main galleries, opened in 2023, present artefacts from prehistoric to Roman times. The collection includes King Tutankhamun’s treasures, such as his golden throne and burial mask. Renowned archaeologist Zahi Hawass underscored the importance of the Tutankhamun collection, expected to draw millions of visitors annually. The government anticipates the museum will boost tourism, providing a much-needed economic stimulus in the wake of political upheaval and the pandemic.
Following years of political unrest and violence, the tourism sector in Egypt has been gradually recovering. In 2024, a record number of 15.7 million tourists visited Egypt, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP. With projections of 18 million tourists in 2025 and plans for 30 million visitors annually by 2032, the tourism industry is poised for growth. The Grand Egyptian Museum serves as a symbol of Egypt’s rich history and cultural heritage, offering a transformative experience for visitors worldwide.