The story of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is a tale of vision, perseverance, and Egypt’s unwavering dedication to preserving its heritage. It all began in January 2002, when then-President Hosni Mubarak laid the foundation stone for what would become the largest museum in the world dedicated solely to the Ancient Egyptian civilization.
The dream was ambitious: to create a space that could house Egypt’s most precious treasures, showcase thousands of years of history, and rival any museum in the world in scale, innovation, and grandeur.
The Spark of an Idea
The idea of GEM was born from the need to provide a modern, state-of-the-art home for the treasures of Tutankhamun and countless other priceless artifacts. At the time, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, though historic, had become overcrowded, limiting how many masterpieces could be displayed safely. GEM promised not only more space but a revolutionary way to present Egypt’s rich cultural legacy to the world.
In 2002, an international architectural competition was launched, drawing 1,557 entries from 82 countries, making it the second-largest architectural competition in history. After a meticulous two-stage judging process, the design by Róisín Heneghan and Shi-Fu Peng of Heneghan Peng Architects, Ireland, was selected. Their vision: a monumental chamfered triangular building that would align perfectly with the Great Pyramid of Khufu and the Pyramid of Menkaure, blending modern architecture with ancient symbolism.
Construction Phases: Turning Vision into Reality
Phase 1: Laying the Foundations (2005–2008)
Actual construction began in 2005, starting with the massive task of preparing a 500,000 m² site in Giza, just two kilometers from the pyramids. By 2006, the 3,200-year-old statue of Ramesses II was relocated from Cairo to the GEM site, symbolizing the start of an era.
Phase 2: Structural Works and International Collaboration (2008–2012)
Over the next few years, GEM’s construction intensified. In 2010, Hill International and EHAF Consulting Engineers were contracted to manage project design and execution. By 2012, a joint venture of Orascom Construction (Egypt) and BESIX Group (Belgium) was awarded the main construction contract, valued at $810 million. Every detail from the alabaster façade to the vast atrium designed to house colossal statues was executed.
Phase 3: Installing the Treasures (2013–2023)
One of the museum’s most challenging feats came in 2018, when the massive 82-ton statue of Ramesses II was installed inside the atrium. This was followed by the careful relocation of Tutankhamun’s treasures, the Khufu solar ship, and other priceless artifacts. Despite setbacks such as fires, logistical hurdles, and the COVID-19 pandemic, construction continued, and the museum began limited public access in February 2023.
Phase 4: The Final Countdown to Opening (2024–2025)
By late 2024, GEM expanded its exhibitions to twelve main galleries, showcasing artifacts from Egypt’s Prehistoric to Coptic periods. After multiple postponements due to global and regional challenges, Egyptian Prime Minister officially announced that the Grand Egyptian Museum would open on November 2025, marking the realization of a dream that began more than two decades ago.
A Museum Like No Other
GEM is not just a museum; it is a world-class cultural destination. It’s 167,000 m² built-up area houses over 100,000 artifacts, including Tutankhamun’s complete collection of 5,398 pieces, many displayed to the public for the first time. The museum also integrates modern technologies like virtual reality, interactive displays, AI systems, and immersive galleries that bring ancient Egypt to life for visitors of all ages.
From the Khufu solar ship to the Queen Hetepheres collection, each exhibit tells a story of Egypt’s enduring legacy. GEM also features a children’s museum, conference center, and training facilities, making it a hub for education, research, and international collaboration.
Best Way to Experience GEM
When visiting the Grand Egyptian Museum, give yourself plenty of time to explore; its massive collections can easily take several hours. Arrive early to avoid peak crowds, wear comfortable shoes, and bring water for the long walks through the galleries.
For a richer experience, check the best Grand Egyptian Museum tours, which can highlight the most important artifacts and share fascinating stories that bring Egypt’s history to life.
