Egyptian Tourism and Antiquities Minister Sharif Fathy chaired a meeting of the board of directors of the Grand Egyptian Museum on September 29, 2026, at the National Museum of Civilization. The meeting reviewed the museum's recent activities, including a visit by Egyptian President and his wife, as well as Chinese President and his wife, earlier in September.
The museum's CEO, Dr. Ahmed Ghneim, presented an overview of the museum's activities and events, highlighting that over 4 million visitors have flocked to the museum since its official opening in November 2025. He noted that visitor numbers are expected to rise with the new tourist season. The meeting also witnessed the approval of the previous session's minutes.
The board discussed and approved the museum's financial statements and modified final accounts for the fiscal year 2025/2026. The meeting was attended by members of the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics and the museum's administrative and financial affairs team. Minister Fathy directed the museum's officials to take necessary executive actions.
The board approved the acceptance of a donation from France, as part of an Egyptian-French cooperation project in the field of antiquities. The donation includes several humidity-measuring devices for the museum's display halls, which will support the preventive conservation system. The devices will help record and monitor the environmental conditions surrounding the museum's antiquities.
The board members were also informed about several memoranda of understanding that are being finalized to enhance cooperation between the Grand Egyptian Museum and several international universities and archaeological museums. These agreements aim to strengthen the museum's global partnerships and foster knowledge sharing in the field of archaeology and museum management.
During the meeting, the minister emphasized the importance of coordinating with relevant authorities to implement the agreed-upon plans and projects. The board's decisions are expected to further boost the museum's operations and reinforce its position as a major cultural institution in Egypt.
The Grand Egyptian Museum has been a significant addition to Egypt's tourism sector, with the country aiming to attract 20 million tourists this year. The museum's management is working to provide a unique experience for visitors, while also preserving and showcasing Egypt's rich cultural heritage.
Key points
- The Grand Egyptian Museum has received over 4 million visitors since its opening in November 2025.
- The museum's board approved the acceptance of a donation from France to support its conservation efforts.
- Egypt aims to attract 20 million tourists this year, with the Grand Egyptian Museum being a major draw.
