Cairo: Virtual tours of archaeological sites are providing tourists with firsthand information about Egyptian antiquities and civilization, offering an interactive experience that aligns with modern technologies and artificial intelligence, stated Chief Archaeologist at the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, Magdy Shaker.According to State Information Service Egypt, Shaker mentioned during an appearance on Nile News channel that tourist demands have evolved over the past two years, highlighting the necessity of offering a new kind of tourism that allows individuals to explore world civilizations. He noted that the pilot opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum featured animated models of some tombs, and virtual tours are set to display artifacts and inscriptions in an engaging manner.Shaker highlighted that the virtual tour of Abu Simbel Temple, created by a private company and presented to the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities for social media display, won first place in an international competition for the best virtual tour in archaeological documentation and heritage preservation.