Grand Egyptian Museum Inaugurated in Giza Following Two Decades of Construction

The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Giza has officially inaugurated on November 1, 2025, following more than 20 years of construction and several delays. This $1 billion endeavor is a significant contribution to Egypt’s cultural scene, featuring over 100,000 artifacts, including 20,000 pieces that have never been displayed before. It now ranks as the second largest museum in the world, surpassing even the Louvre in terms of exhibition area. The tomb of King Tutankhamun, showcased in its entirety for the first time since its 1922 discovery, serves as a central highlight of the museum.

At the grand opening ceremony, which was attended by international dignitaries and Egyptian celebrities, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi emphasized the importance of GEM as a new chapter in Egypt’s narrative. Amid ongoing discussions regarding artifact repatriation, personalities like Dr. Zahi Hawass advocate for the return of significant pieces such as the Rosetta Stone, the Dendera zodiac, and the Bust of Nefertiti to Egypt.

The narrative-driven approach of the museum presents artifacts as a unified story rather than isolated items, enriching the visitor experience. The opening of the GEM signifies a victorious landmark for Egypt, representing both a preservation of its heritage and a pledge for its future within the global cultural arena.