≡-Delay in Egypt’s Grand Egyptian Museum Opening Now Puts Tourism Hopes on the Hold, Impacting its Visitor Projections for Cairo and Giza in this Year – Viral of Today

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Home » TOURISM NEWS » Delay in Egypt’s Grand Egyptian Museum Opening Now Puts Tourism Hopes on the Hold, Impacting its Visitor Projections for Cairo and Giza in this Year Wednesday, July 16, 2025Egypt’s eagerly anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), set against the stunning backdrop of the iconic Giza pyramids, faces yet another delay. Originally scheduled to open fully on July 3, 2025, the postponement to later in the year has had a significant impact on local tourism operators and businesses, dampening their economic prospects and triggering substantial losses for Egypt.A High-Stakes DelayThe GEM, a project two decades in the making, has promised to rejuvenate Egypt’s tourism industry by attracting an estimated five million visitors annually. Its key attraction, the renowned treasures of Tutankhamun, remains under wraps, with only limited sections currently accessible to the public. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly attributed the latest delay to regional security concerns and the government’s aspiration to organize a globally significant inauguration event.Impact on Local EntrepreneursThe ripple effects of the delay are strongly felt among small and medium-sized enterprises surrounding the museum area. Mona, a local shop owner near the pyramids, had leveraged her business’s future heavily on the timely opening of the museum. She had borrowed funds to renovate her store and invested significantly in merchandise inspired by the museum’s expected collections. The postponement now leaves her financially strained and uncertain about her business’s immediate future.Nearby, Mohamed Mamdouh Khattab, owner of a jewelry and antique replicas bazaar, similarly expressed disappointment. Anticipating the grand opening, Khattab had hired additional employees, conducted extensive training, and expanded his inventory in preparation for a surge in tourism that has not yet materialized.Tourism Industry Facing Persistent ChallengesTourism is a cornerstone of Egypt’s economy, representing about 10 percent of the workforce. Yet, the sector has grappled with persistent challenges, from the 2011 Arab Spring to recent militant attacks and disruptions due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This latest delay adds another layer of uncertainty for businesses reliant on steady tourist traffic.Nevertheless, recent figures indicated promising signs of recovery. In the first quarter of 2025, Egypt welcomed 3.9 million tourists, a remarkable 25 percent increase from the same period the previous year, marking a new high. Despite these gains, stakeholders in the industry continue to face volatility and vulnerability due to delays and broader economic fragility.Economic Insights and PerspectivesRagui Assaad, an economist from the University of Minnesota, underscores the strategic importance of the museum’s opening. He emphasizes that tourism initiatives have historically provided substantial economic returns by boosting foreign exchange earnings. Unlike many of Egypt’s other mega-projects, which don’t directly attract foreign currency, the GEM represents a crucial opportunity for economic growth.These economic stakes are particularly high given the broader financial context. Since 2022, Egypt’s currency has drastically depreciated, losing two-thirds of its value and imposing severe constraints on household budgets and economic activities.Potential for Recovery and GrowthAt a local Giza papyrus workshop, tour guide Sara Mahmoud remains hopeful that the eventual opening of the GEM will significantly bolster visitor numbers, similar to past successful events like the 2021 Pharaohs’ Golden Parade and the reopening of the Avenue of the Sphinxes. Such high-profile occasions have historically sparked renewed global interest in Egypt’s rich heritage and culture.Mahmoud and other tourism professionals anticipate that once the museum fully opens, it will significantly enhance Egypt’s tourism appeal, driving substantial economic benefits across sectors.Community Resilience Amidst UncertaintyDespite setbacks, the local business community demonstrates resilience. Small businesses continue to adapt and prepare for the eventual influx of visitors, banking on the promise of the GEM to transform the tourism landscape. Nevertheless, sustained delays continue to strain resources and dampen spirits.For now, many stakeholders like Mona and Khattab must cope with cancellations, refunds, and restructured travel routes that significantly impact their income. They remain optimistic yet cautious, aware that their livelihoods hinge on the successful and timely launch of the museum.Conclusion: Awaiting a Promised Boost to Egypt’s TourismThe delay of the Grand Egyptian Museum’s full opening has had profound effects on Cairo’s local economy and the broader tourism industry. However, the anticipated global interest in the museum’s collections and Egypt’s unique heritage holds significant promise for future recovery and economic resilience. As stakeholders await this pivotal launch, their continued adaptability and optimism reflect the unwavering spirit of Egypt’s tourism sector.

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