Egypt, a beacon of ancient history and timeless wonders, is set to make waves at ITB Berlin 2025 with two groundbreaking developments reaffirming its status as a premier travel destination. The much-anticipated opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) and the historic discovery of the long-lost tomb of Pharaoh Thutmose II have captured global attention, solidifying Egypt’s role as a leader in cultural and sustainable tourism.
A Monumental Leap: The Grand Egyptian Museum’s Grand Opening
After years of meticulous preparation and anticipation, the Grand Egyptian Museum will officially open its doors to the public on July 3, 2025. Situated near the legendary Pyramids of Giza, this state-of-the-art institution is the largest museum in the world dedicated to a single civilization. Housing over 100,000 artifacts, the museum presents an unparalleled journey through Egypt’s millennia-old history, from its prehistoric roots to the Greco-Roman era.
At the heart of GEM’s exhibition is the world’s first complete display of Tutankhamun’s treasures, featuring over 5,000 artifacts from the boy king’s tomb. Cutting-edge technology, immersive virtual reality experiences, and interactive installations will transport visitors back to the grandeur of Ancient Egypt. The museum’s architectural marvel, with panoramic views of the Pyramids, is designed to be both a cultural sanctuary and a symbol of Egypt’s progressive vision.
Sherif Fathi, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, emphasized the museum’s significance during the ITB Berlin press conference:
Sherif Fathi, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities.
“Germany remains a cornerstone of our tourism industry, and we are committed to strengthening our ties even further. With the upcoming full opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum and our ongoing focus on sustainability, we anticipate a significant surge in visitors throughout 2025.”
During its soft opening phase, GEM has welcomed over 300,000 visitors, hinting at the enormous tourism boost Egypt is set to experience in the coming years.
A Historic Revelation: The Discovery of Thutmose II’s Tomb
In a discovery hailed as the most significant since the unearthing of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922, archaeologists have uncovered the long-lost tomb of Pharaoh Thutmose II. Located near the Valley of the Kings, this previously undiscovered burial chamber is expected to shed new light on the 18th Dynasty, a period marked by Egypt’s expansive growth and rich cultural advancements.
The excavation, led by an Egyptian-British archaeological team, has already revealed intricately preserved hieroglyphics, exquisite burial artifacts, and evidence of ancient burial rites that may redefine our understanding of royal funerary traditions.
“This is an extraordinary breakthrough that allows us to delve deeper into the reign of Thutmose II and the customs of the time,” said an official from the Ministry of Antiquities in Cairo.
Egypt: A Thrilling Fusion of Adventure, Wellness, and Sustainable Tourism
Beyond its rich historical offerings, Egypt thrives as a diverse and dynamic tourism destination, catering to adventurers, wellness seekers, and luxury travellers alike.
The Red Sea’s crystal-clear waters are a paradise for diving, snorkelling, and kite surfing, while Egypt’s expansive deserts offer exhilarating safari experiences. The Siwa Oasis, known for its healing mineral springs and renowned wellness hubs in Aswan, Bahariya, and Kharga, position Egypt as an emerging health and wellness tourism leader.
Minister Fathi reinforced the country’s commitment to sustainability, stating:
“Egypt is dedicated to preserving its cultural and natural heritage. We are integrating cutting-edge technologies to protect our historical sites while ensuring a sustainable tourism industry for future generations.”
To achieve this, the Egyptian government works closely with environmental organizations and luxury resorts to implement eco-conscious initiatives that protect marine life, conserve desert ecosystems, and promote green tourism infrastructure.
Tourism Boom: Germany Remains Egypt’s Key Market
Germany remains Egypt’s largest European source market, with 1.7 million German visitors recorded in 2024—an impressive 5% increase from the previous year. Egypt welcomed 15.7 million international tourists in 2024, signalling a strong post-pandemic recovery and consistent annual growth.
With its ambitious vision for the future, Egypt aims to welcome 30 million tourists annually by 2030, leveraging its unmatched historical wealth, diverse travel experiences, and a growing focus on sustainable tourism.
Experience the Magic of Egypt First-Hand
Egypt in 2025 promises an unforgettable journey, whether exploring the mysteries of ancient tombs, witnessing the splendour of the Grand Egyptian Museum, or diving into the Red Sea’s vibrant marine world.
Discover more at www.experienceegypt.eg/en.
Written by: Octavia Koo
