Egypt's tourism sector, which accounts for about 10% of the workforce, is showing signs of recovery, with 3.9 million tourists visiting in the first quarter of 2025—an increase of 25% from the previous year.

The grand opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, a major cultural milestone, has been postponed to the last quarter of 2025 due to regional security concerns and the desire for a high-profile launch event, after being delayed multiple times over two decades.

Despite partial access to some exhibits, the museum's main attractions, including the treasures of Tutankhamun, remain closed until the official opening, which has disappointed many local vendors and tourism-related businesses that prepared for the influx.

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly cited regional security issues and the need for a globally significant event as reasons for the museum's postponement, emphasizing the importance of a successful launch.

Local vendors and craftspeople, like Mohamed Mamdouh Khattab, invested heavily in anticipation of the museum's opening, viewing it as a crucial step toward economic recovery.

The museum, under construction for over twenty years, has faced numerous delays due to political unrest, economic crises, and the COVID-19 pandemic, making this latest postponement another setback.

Tourism agencies and tour operators, such as Nadine Ahmed from Time Travel Tours, have suffered significant financial losses from cancellations and altered travel plans caused by the delay.

Local shop owners near the pyramids, like Mona, invested in renovations and stock expecting a surge in tourists, but the postponement has left them disappointed.

The museum's grand opening, initially scheduled for July 3, 2025, has been pushed to late 2025, impacting local businesses and the broader tourism outlook in Cairo.

Economist Ragui Assaad highlighted the museum's potential to boost Egypt's foreign exchange earnings, making it a vital part of the country's economic strategy despite ongoing financial challenges.

Egypt continues to grapple with economic difficulties, including a significant currency depreciation since 2022, which has affected consumer spending and local business resilience.

The museum is a key component of Egypt's larger infrastructure and cultural promotion efforts, aimed at positioning the country as a global investment and tourism destination amid economic strain.

Despite delays, local vendors and tour operators remain cautiously optimistic that the museum's eventual opening will stimulate economic activity and tourism in the region.