Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Khaled El-Anani has revealed that the Grand Egyptian Museum’s (GEM) opening ceremony will be a great surprise for all, and just as impressive as the recent Royal Mummies Parade.
El-Anani added that determining the date of the opening ceremony will be related to the global health situation, rather than just Egypt, and that it will be chosen according to the most appropriate time for everyone.
The GEM, which has been built on a total area of 117 feddan in Giza, is the largest museum in the world dedicated to one civilisation, and its opening is eagerly anticipated. Among the museum’s exhibit will be over 5,000 artefacts from the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun, which will be displayed together for the first time since their discovery a century ago.
The museum also features the first hanging obelisk in the world, along with a Grand Staircase replete with monumental artefacts from Ancient Egypt.
El-Anani said that Egypt will present other important activities during the coming period, including the upcoming celebration to open the New Administrative Capital (NAC), the city of Galala, and the opening of the Rams Road in Luxor.
The minister noted that the success of the Pharaoh’s Golden Parade reflected Egypt’s significant civilisation and the greatness of the country’s ancestors. It created a passion for many, not only to visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) in Fustat to see the royal mummies, but to visit Egypt.
The anticipated increase in visits from tourists are expected to see a commensurate increase in cultural tourism, especially in Cairo due to the development work in the city.
El-Anani’s remarks came during his interviews with UAE newspapers on the sidelines of Egypt’s participation at the Arab Tourism Market (ATM) 2021. The event opened on Sunday, and will continue until 19May.
Egypt has continued to announce various, and significant, archaeological discoveries during the year 2020, despite the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.
The Minister stressed the need to announce these new archaeological discoveries, as they are an important promotional focus for Egyptian tourism, and provide an exciting element. They also ensure that Egypt remains in the public eye for tourism and travel, and contribute to preserving the mental image of the country.
