Orascom Pyramids has said that the final cost of developing the pyramid plateau could reach EGP 1bn. It was formerly estimated at EGP 500m.
Amr Gazarin, Chairperson of Orascom Pyramids, said that the pyramids project is pending the approval of the Supreme Council of Antiquities and the Ministry of Interior, and it is likely to start during the coming period.
Gazarin explained, on the sidelines of a press tour conducted by the company, that the implementation of a building to receive tourists and visitors has been completed according to the latest international systems, taking into account the historical and archaeological dimension of the pyramids plateau. He added that the cost of the development process could reach EGP 1bn.
Gazarin went on to explain that the aim of the building is to prepare tourists for their visit to the pyramids. The building has a VIP lounge and is largely equipped to receive tourist delegations, and provide a review of the pyramids visit.
Orascom Pyramids is cooperating with the Traffic Management Company, which organized both the Dubai Expo and the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, according to Gazarin. He also noted that a route has been set for the touristic trip in the pyramids, that comes with seven stations, aiming to present the pyramids in a new fresh way.
A service area at each station has also been established, with spots where visitors can get soft drinks, use restrooms, and find bazaars to buy gifts. In addition, there is a medical center to provide quick medical aid to tourists if necessary.
Gazarin said that the project contributed to providing many jobs for the Egyptian youth, pointing out that the tourism sector is the locomotive of 140 other sectors and industries in Egypt.
He pointed out that the building will become one of the best tourist reception centers in archaeological sites in the world, as it includes stories of kings hanging on the walls, and murals that include a full explanation of the area, in addition to cinemas playing films and documentaries about the story of the pyramids and how they were built, with the voice of Egyptian archaeologist Zahi Hawass, and the international actor Kevin Costner. These films will provide an overview of the Egyptian civilization and the pyramids plateau.
Orascom Pyramids Entertainment Projects, an Egyptian joint stock company, is an Orascom Investment Holding Company. Its activity is focused on developing, managing and operating projects. It is currently developing, operating and providing tourism services within the area of the Giza Pyramids under a usufruct contract with the Supreme Council of Antiquities for a period of 15 years.
