Cairo: Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy asserted that the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) on Saturday 1/11/2025 marks a historic moment that will reshape the global cultural landscape. Speaking to MENA at the media center inside the museum, Fathy said that the museum's opening is expected to positively impact tourist numbers, with projections indicating that Egypt will welcome around 18 million tourists this year.

According to State Information Service Egypt, during the museum's experimental operation, the number of daily visitors reached around 5,000, expecting this figure to increase significantly after the official opening. The Minister urged Egyptians to visit the museum and enjoy the treasures of their ancestors, noting that ticket prices are affordable for all.

Fathy pointed out that visits will be carefully organized to accommodate the expected surge in demand, especially with the introduction of an electronic ticketing system. He added that school trips-both free and paid-will also be arranged, taking into account the site's limited visitor capacity.

The minister said that a comprehensive plan has been developed to enhance the surrounding area and that international promotional campaigns for the museum will continue in the coming period. Fathy emphasized that the strong attendance of world leaders at the opening ceremony reflects the global significance of the Grand Egyptian Museum.

He stressed that the museum's prominence will not overshadow Egypt's other tourist destinations, as all attractions will be promoted in parallel, given the country's diversity of tourism experiences.