First Glimpse of the Grand Egyptian Museum: What's New, What's Next

A Journey Through Time at the Grand Egyptian Museum

There are few places on Earth where history feels as alive and powerful as it does in Egypt. At the edge of the Giza Plateau, the country’s rich past is being reintroduced to the world in a stunning new way. The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is more than just a museum—it’s a gateway to 5,000 years of human civilization, and my visit during its soft opening was nothing short of unforgettable.

This wasn’t just another museum trip; it felt like a pilgrimage. When my mother asked if I wanted to join her for a trip to Egypt, the GEM immediately made my list of must-see destinations. For me, this was the museum that could finally do justice to Egypt’s incredible heritage. And I’m happy to say, it exceeded all expectations.

Getting There: An Adventure in Itself

Since the GEM wasn’t part of our group tour, we had to plan our own way there—and honestly, that added to the experience. We learned from other travelers that Uber works well in Cairo, and the best option is to book the highest tier available. After a week of fast-paced touring, we were ready to take it slow and chose the most comfortable ride.

The journey was smooth and surprisingly affordable. However, it’s important to be aware of potential scams—some drivers might message you asking for more money than what’s shown in the app. Ignore those messages. Our driver picked us up directly from our hotel and dropped us off at the gates of the GEM. When we arrived, we were completely taken aback by the grandeur of the place.

First Impressions: A Monumental Experience

The complex is massive and beautifully designed. I had heard that an international team helped with the architecture, and it definitely shows—this is a space built to impress on a global scale. Some say that when complete, it may be the largest archaeological museum in the world, and I can see why. From the moment we stepped out of the car, I felt that something monumental was unfolding.

We entered beneath towering walls of pale stone and glass, greeted by a colossal statue of Ramses II and a peaceful water feature that framed the space with elegance. Even though it was just a soft opening, the whole experience already felt polished and organized.

After purchasing tickets, we stepped into the museum’s heart: a staircase that rises like a timeline, lined with statues from across Egypt’s long and complex history. Nearby, there were cafes and food courts for visitors who needed a break.

Inside the Museum: A Time Travel Experience

About 80% of the exhibits were open during our visit. Unfortunately, the King Tutankhamun Gallery—one of the museum’s highlights—was still closed, but even so, what we saw was breathtaking.

The galleries move in chronological order, starting from prehistoric times and moving through the Pharaonic dynasties, the Ptolemaic period, and the Greco-Roman era. The curation is masterful. Artifacts are not just displayed—they’re presented in ways that tell stories, spark imagination, and invite reflection. You get to see how Egyptian civilization evolved, merged with others, and yet retained its unmistakable identity.

Compared to other museums in Cairo, such as the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square or the Museum of Egyptian Civilization, the GEM offers a broader, more immersive sweep of history. It doesn’t just focus on royalty or mummies, but on daily life, technology, art, religion, and language. The labeling is clear and informative in multiple languages, though guided tours are available if you want extra context. We went unguided and found the experience totally enriching.

The Building: A Masterpiece in Its Own Right

The building itself deserves praise. It’s modern but not sterile, grand but not overwhelming. One of my personal highlights was the pyramid viewing terrace, which offers a clear line of sight to the Giza Pyramids. They’re currently constructing a pedestrian walkway that will eventually connect GEM directly to the pyramids—a brilliant idea, though it’s still under construction at the time of this writing.

The Return Journey: A Quick Tip

Leaving the museum turned out to be trickier than arriving. Taxis cluster near the entrance, and many drivers approach you directly. If you’re not interested, just say “La, shukran” (no, thank you). It’s safer to wait for an Uber or use a trusted taxi service. We made it back safely, and the day had been long, but every moment felt worth it.

Why You Should Go

The Grand Egyptian Museum is already a must-see—and it’s not even finished yet. Whether you’re a history buff, a casual tourist, or someone curious about human achievement, the GEM offers a profound and accessible entry into one of the world’s most enduring civilizations.

I recommend dedicating a full day to the experience. It’s air-conditioned (a major plus in Egypt), there are places to eat, and the gift shop is genuinely delightful—we picked up framed papyrus with our names in hieroglyphics for a surprisingly reasonable price.

This was a 10 out of 10 experience. Once the Tutankhamun exhibit and the remaining wings open, I fully expect the Grand Egyptian Museum to take its place among the world’s great cultural institutions—right up there with the Louvre, the British Museum, and the Met.

And if I ever find myself back in Egypt, you can bet I’ll be going again.