Grande Museo Egizio di Giza accused of discriminating against Egyptian visitors

Just over a month after its official inauguration, the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza faces accusations of discrimination against Egyptian visitors. The museum, which cost over $1 billion and took twenty years to complete, has been overwhelmed by demand, with daily visitor numbers exceeding the 20,000 limit set by operator Hassan Allam Holding. Since December, online booking has been mandatory. While Egyptians benefit from a reduced entry fee of $4.40 (compared to over $30 for standard tickets), a rule caps their daily access at 60% of total capacity. Parliamentarian Freddy Elbaiady condemned the quota as discriminatory and unconstitutional, arguing no other country tells its citizens there is no room. CEO Ahmed Ghoneim defended the policy, noting locals still form the majority of visitors. The museum, promoted as a symbol of Egypt's future, has also sparked debate over traditional attire deemed embarrassing to foreign tourists. Infrastructure issues, particularly congested transport to Giza, remain pressing.