Grand Egyptian Museum Delay Hits Tourism, Local Businesses

The full opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, originally scheduled for early July 2025, has been postponed to the final quarter of the year, disappointing local businesses and the tourism industry that had anticipated a surge in visitors. The museum, which houses the complete treasures of Tutankhamun and is located near the Giza pyramids, was expected to attract up to five million visitors annually, potentially revitalizing Egypt's tourism sector that employs about 10% of the workforce. Souvenir shop owners and tour agencies had invested heavily in anticipation of the opening, but now face cancellations, refunds, and financial losses. The delay was attributed by officials, including Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, to regional security concerns and the desire to organize a globally significant launch event. Despite partial access to the museum’s exhibits, the main collection remains unavailable, prolonging uncertainty for businesses and the sector's recovery momentum. The museum project has faced numerous setbacks over two decades, including political instability, economic crises, and the COVID-19 pandemic, but remains a critical cultural and economic milestone for Egypt.