The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization: A Tourist Guide

This guide will tell you everything you need to know about The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. The Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient Egyptian history and culture. It offers a wide range of exhibits and activities that educate and entertain visitors of all ages.

The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization is a world-renowned museum in Fustat, Old Cairo, Egypt, not far from the bank of the River Nile. The Museum is home to some of the most famous and well-preserved artefacts from ancient Egyptian civilization from prehistoric times to the present day, including the Replica of the Rosetta Stone, a statue of Pharaoh Ramses II and the Royal mummy of Hatshepsut.

The history and background of NMEC will all be covered in this guide. Additionally, it will attempt to address some of the most popular questions regarding visiting, including What is the best time to visit? What are the entrance fees? What to wear?

Brief History

The Museum has been partially open to the public since 2017. It houses over 50,000+ artefacts, and it is one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of Egyptian artefacts in the World. It was inaugurated on the 3rd April 2021, by President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi.

The Museum is dedicated to Egyptian civilization, culture, and antiquity and covers more than 7,000 years, from the Prehistoric to the Roman era. It is the first Museum in the Arab World dedicated to a single civilization.

Background

The permanent collection in the Museum is divided into two regions, one thematic and the other chronological.

The chronological areas include Pharaonic, Islamic, Medieval, Coptic, Greco-Roman, Archaic, contemporary and modern.

The thematic areas include Dawn of Civilization, The Nile, Writing, State and Society, Material Culture, Beliefs and Thinking, and the Gallery of Royal Mummies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why visit the NMEC?

Here are two reasons why:

1. The Museum is located in the heart of Cairo
   The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization is located in the heart of Cairo, making it easy to visit during a trip to Egypt's capital city. The Museum is also within 7 to 8 km distance of many other popular attractions, such as the Cairo Zoo and the Egyptian Museum.
2. The Museum offers a unique perspective on Egyptian history
   The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization offers a unique perspective on Egyptian history, as it focuses on the everyday lives of ancient Egyptians. This differs from most other museums, focusing on the country's pharaohs and queens.

Who will enjoy visiting The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization?

• The history buff - For the history buff, visiting The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization is a must. The Museum is known for a wealth of artefacts and information on ancient Egyptian civilization, making it the perfect place to learn more about this fascinating historical period.
• The art lover - The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization is also a great destination for art lovers. The Museum houses a collection of ancient Egyptian art, including paintings, sculptures, and more.
• The photographer - The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization is a photographer's dream. The Museum's impressive architecture and collection of artefacts make for some great photo opportunities.
• The family traveller - The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization is an excellent destination for families. The Museum offers a variety of activities and exhibits that are perfect for kids of all ages.

Overall, many travellers would enjoy visiting The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization because it has something everyone can enjoy.

What is the best time to visit the NMEC in Cairo?

The Museum is open all year round, but the best time to visit is during the winter months of December and January.

The weather in Cairo during the winter is much cooler and more pleasant than in the hot and humid summer months. The average temperature in December is 21 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit), and in January, it is 24 degrees Celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit). 

The cooler weather makes it much more comfortable to walk around the Museum and see the exhibits.

If you are interested in learning about Egyptian history and culture, then the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization is a must-see. The Museum has something for everyone, and the winter months are the best time to visit.

How do I get to the NMEC?

• Taxi  - The most common and convenient way to get around Cairo is by taxi. You can flag one down anywhere on the street, and they are relatively inexpensive. The fare from Tahrir Square to The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization should be around 20-30 EGP. 
• Uber  - If you're uncomfortable taking a regular taxi or can't be bothered haggling a price, you can always use Uber's ride-hailing service. The fare from Tahrir Square to The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization should be around 35-45 EGP.
• Cairo Metro  - The Cairo Metro is a great option if you're looking for a cheap and efficient way to get around the city. A single ride will only cost you 1.50 EGP, and the journey from Tahrir Square to El-Malek El-Saleh metro station, the nearest to The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, should take around 4 or 5 mins taxi ride.
• Bus - Another cheap and efficient option for getting around Cairo is by bus. A single ride will only cost you 1.50 EGP, and several routes will take you from Tahrir Square to The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization.

Note: Fees are subject to change without prior notice.

How much are Museum of Egyptian Civilization tickets, and when is it open?

The cost of admission to the NMEC for non-Egyptians is 240EGP (approx. $10) for adults and 120EGP (approx. $5) for students. For Egyptian nationals it is 60EGP (approx. $2.50) for adults and 60EGP (approx. $1.25) for students.

The Museum is open Saturday to Thursday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and on Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm then from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. The museum is closed on Sundays.

Note: Admission Fees and Opening hours are subject to change without notice.

What should I wear at the NMEC?

The recommended dress code for visiting The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization is casual and comfortable.

There is no need to dress up to enjoy the Museum, but visitors should be aware that the Egyptian sun can be pretty intense. Wearing light, loose-fitting clothing is advised. Hats and sunglasses may also be helpful.

The Museum is also air-conditioned, so visitors should consider that when choosing their outfits.

Additionally, visitors should know that the Museum does not allow food or drink inside the facility.

How fit do I need to be?

The NMEC is a popular tourist destination, so it is important to know the recommended level of fitness required to visit the Museum.

While the Museum is accessible to people of all fitness levels, some areas may be more challenging for those not as physically fit.

The recommended level of fitness to visit the NMEC is moderate. This means that you should be able to walk for long periods and climb a few flights of stairs. If you have any concerns about your fitness level, it is always best to consult with your doctor before planning a trip to the Museum.

Visiting the NMEC is a great way to learn about ancient Egyptian culture and history. With its many interactive exhibits, the Museum is sure to be a hit with people of all ages and fitness levels.

Is it safe to visit the Museum?

The Museum was opened to the public in 2017, and since then, it has been a very popular tourist attractions in the city. Nevertheless, some safety concerns have been raised about the NMEC.

Despite these concerns, the NMEC is still a popular tourist destination. It is one of the most modern and well-designed museums in Egypt and houses several interesting exhibits. The Museum is also located in a safe area of Cairo, and visitors can take precautions to reduce their risk of becoming victims of crime. 

Overall, the NMEC is a safe place to visit, and travellers should not let safety concerns deter them from enjoying this unique and fascinating Museum.

What are the museum rules?

Please follow the rules of the Museum. Many rules are in place to protect the artefacts. If you break the rules, you could be asked to leave. By following the rules you can help to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable visit to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization.

• Do not to touch the artefacts. Many of the artefacts are very old and fragile. If they are touched, they could break. Also, some of the artefacts may be covered in poisonous chemicals. If you touch them, you could get sick.
• Do not to take anything from the Museum. Many security guards are watching the visitors. If you try to take something, you will be caught, and you could be arrested.
• Do not climb on the artefacts. Some of the artefacts are very tall, and you could get hurt if you fall.
• Do not to make too much noise. The Museum is where people come to learn and be respectful of the artefacts. If you are being too loud, you could be asked to leave.
• Do not to bring food or drinks into the Museum. Eating and drinking are not allowed in the Museum. If you are caught doing this, you could be asked to leave.
• Do not smoke in the Museum. Smoking is not allowed in the Museum. If you are caught smoking, you could be asked to leave.

What are safety measures in place at the Museum?

The Museum has several safety measures in place to ensure the safety of visitors and staff. These measures include security guards, CCTV cameras, and metal detectors.

The security guards at the Museum are responsible for the safety of visitors and staff. They are trained to deal with any potential security threats. The guards also conduct regular patrols of the Museum to ensure that no one is causing any damage to the artefacts.

The CCTV cameras at the Museum are used to monitor the activities of visitors and staff. The cameras are also used to deter crime and to provide evidence in the event of a crime.

The metal detectors at the Museum are used to detect any potential weapons that visitors may be carrying. The detectors also ensure that no one carries any illegal items into the Museum.

What traditional Egyptian souvenirs can I buy?

The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization is home to a wide variety of souvenirs that are perfect for anyone interested in Egyptian history and culture. From traditional papyrus paintings to modern replicas of ancient Egyptian artefacts, there is something for everyone at this Museum.

• Papyrus paintings are a popular souvenir at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. These paintings are made from the papyrus plant, which is native to Egypt. Papyrus paintings are often brightly coloured and depict scenes from Egyptian mythology or daily life.
• Replicas of ancient Egyptian artefacts are another popular souvenir at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. These replicas are made from wood, stone, or metal materials and are often very realistic. Many of these replicas are of famous artefacts, such as the bust of Nefertiti or the Rosetta Stone.
• Jewellery is also a popular souvenir at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. This jewellery is often made from materials such as gold, silver, or bronze and is often inlaid with precious stones. Many of these pieces are replicas of ancient Egyptian jewellery, and some are made using traditional methods.
• A wide variety of books are also available at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. These books cover various topics, including Egyptian history, culture, and religion. Many of these books are written by experts in their field and offer a great way to learn more about Egypt.

So, whether you are looking for a traditional papyrus painting or a modern replica of an ancient Egyptian artefact, the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization is sure to have the perfect souvenir.

What else can I do at the Museum?

The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization is home to a wealth of ancient Egyptian artefacts and displays. Here are some activities available to visitors:

• View the artefacts on display - The Museum houses artefacts from ancient Egypt, including statues, jewellery, and pottery. Visitors can view these items up close and learn about their history and significance.
• Take a guided tour - Guided tours are available for groups of 10 or more. These tours provide an in-depth look at the Museum's collection and offer insight into the lives of the ancient Egyptians.
• Watch a film about ancient Egypt - The Museum's theatre shows a film about ancient Egypt several times a day. This film overviews Egyptian history and culture and is an excellent introduction to the Museum's collection.
• Shop in the museum store - The museum store offers a wide selection of books, jewellery, and other items related to ancient Egypt. Visitors can purchase souvenirs or gifts for friends and family.

What useful tips do you have for visiting the Museum?

• Plan your visit to make the most of your time at the Museum. Check the opening times and ticket prices online before you go.
• Follow the museum rules. They are there to make your visit as safe as possible and to protect the exhibits.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.
• Take your time to explore all the different sections of the Museum.
• Take a camera with you to capture some incredible sights.
• Be prepared to queue to get into the most popular exhibits.
• Don't miss the chance to see the mummies - they are one of the highlights of the Museum.
• Allow plenty of time to visit the gift shop before you leave.
• Check out the Museum's website in advance to see if any special events or exhibitions are taking place during your visit.
• Enjoy your time at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization - it's a fascinating place!