🇪🇬Egypt’s $1 Billion “Cursed” Museum Is Finally Open — But Still Hiding Its Crown Jewel

After two decades of political delays, shifting deadlines, and whispered rumors of ancient curses, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is finally opening its gates — sort of. In a carefully controlled soft-opening, the world’s largest archaeological museum has begun welcoming visitors to select areas since late 2024. While you can now wander through majestic halls like the Grand Staircase and explore twelve dazzling galleries, the museum’s most anticipated treasures — including Tutankhamun’s full collection and Khufu’s 4,600-year-old solar boat remain sealed off, with the official grand opening pushed once again to late 2025.

This “trial run” isn’t just about testing logistics — it’s also a high-stakes move to revive Egypt’s tourism economy, which saw a 25% surge in early 2025. Up to 4,000 visitors a day are flowing into the museum, located in Giza near the Great Pyramids, creating a new cultural pilgrimage site before the full unveiling. The delay, officially attributed to regional security concerns, is fueling speculation especially as construction on the museum has cost over $1 billion and spanned five Egyptian presidents. Yet despite the wait, what’s already open is breathtaking: a towering statue of Ramses II greets you, and cutting-edge exhibitions are fusing tech with timeless heritage.

But here’s the twist: the museum’s own mystique may now be its biggest attraction. With headlines calling it “the cursed museum,” and online chatter about why King Tut still isn’t on view, the GEM has captured global curiosity. This isn’t just another tourist destination it’s become a symbol of modern Egypt’s struggle to balance ambition, heritage, and geopolitics. Whether you’re a culture lover, history nerd, or skeptical adventurer, the Grand Egyptian Museum’s soft opening feels like stepping into a story that’s still being written.