The Pyramids of Giza, one of the most renowned wonders of the ancient world, have long been a bucket-list destination for millions. Each year, approximately 2.5 million visitors journey to the site with high expectations. Yet, for years, those dreams often collided with reality: heavy tourist congestion, limited infrastructure, and persistent street vendors dulled what many had hoped would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Now, a sweeping $30 million redevelopment project is reshaping the Giza Plateau into a destination that not only preserves its historic grandeur but also meets modern tourism standards. Visitors can expect a smoother, more organized visit, complete with upgraded transport, facilities, and dining — all officially launching on July 3.
From Frustration to Fascination
The revamp is the product of a 2018 public-private partnership between the Egyptian government and Orascom Pyramids Entertainment (OPE), a company owned by Egyptian billionaire Naguib Sawiris. The deal granted OPE operational control of the site for 11 years, while the government retains exclusive rights to ticket revenue. OPE, in turn, generates income from premium tours, sponsorship arrangements, and leasing of commercial spaces within the complex.
Amr Gazarin, Executive Chairman of OPE, explained that the project underwent a soft launch in April to fine-tune logistics and address any shortcomings. This phased approach allowed improvements to be made before the official unveiling in July.
Enhancing Accessibility and Infrastructure
One of the most significant changes is the elimination of private car traffic within the Giza Plateau. In the past, visitors would drive along a narrow road beside the Great Pyramid, often creating bottlenecks and confusion. Now, tourists enter the complex through a newly constructed gateway located 1.5 miles southwest of the pyramids, adjacent to a major highway.
Upon arrival, visitors pass through the “Great Gate,” an expansive entry hall with modern amenities and an introductory exhibition. From there, they board a fleet of new hop-on, hop-off electric buses that efficiently transport them between major landmarks, including the three pyramids and the iconic Great Sphinx. This transport upgrade not only eases navigation but also significantly reduces the environmental footprint on the fragile site.
The site now features upgraded restrooms, clearly marked pathways, official souvenir shops, and shaded resting areas — elements that were previously lacking. New dining establishments, introduced over the past few years, have brought culinary upgrades to the experience. Among them is Khufu’s, a high-end restaurant offering modern takes on Egyptian classics and panoramic views of the Great Pyramid. The restaurant was recently recognized as one of the best in the Middle East and North Africa by World’s 50 Best.
Changing Perceptions, Improving Safety
For returning tourists, the transformation is stark. Mariam Al-Gohary, a 37-year-old Egyptian-Canadian, visited the pyramids this May after a 15-year gap. Her last visit, in 2010, was marred by pressure from camel handlers who demanded extra money for basic services like helping her off the animal. This time, her experience was markedly different.
“It’s become more professional, more like a world-class attraction,” Al-Gohary said. “It’s what you’d expect when visiting a major historical site.”
Addressing aggressive vendors was a major part of the revamp. Authorities have created designated zones for horse and camel operators, physically distancing them from the main entrance. While some vendors have resisted relocation, Gazarin noted that tighter controls are gradually being implemented.
“These practices scared away a lot of potential visitors,” he said. “That’s why managing this issue was essential.”
A Broader Tourism Push
The timing of the site’s reopening aligns with another major milestone: the inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum, located just a mile away. This $1 billion facility is poised to become a centerpiece of Egyptian tourism, housing the country’s most prized ancient artifacts under one roof.
Together, the two initiatives represent a broader strategy to revitalize Egypt’s tourism sector and position the country as a premier global destination. The government has set an ambitious goal: double annual tourist arrivals to 30 million within a decade. If achieved, that would place Egypt alongside top-tier tourist destinations such as Greece.
Preliminary signs are promising. In April, visitor numbers to the Giza Plateau rose nearly 24% compared to the same month last year. While it’s too early to credit the site upgrades fully for this increase, the broader trend points to growing international interest. Early 2025 also saw record-breaking tourism figures overall, suggesting strong momentum for the sector.
Still, Gazarin believes there’s ample room for growth. “Only about half of Giza’s annual visitors are from outside Egypt,” he noted. “Meanwhile, the Colosseum in Rome attracted over 12 million people in 2023.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the progress, Gazarin acknowledges that rebuilding Egypt’s tourism reputation will take time, especially given the geopolitical instability that can affect regional travel. Yet, he remains optimistic that the trend is heading in the right direction.
“What’s important is that the numbers are rising,” he said. “The pyramids are among the most significant cultural sites in human history. It’s simply not acceptable that only just over a million foreigners visit each year.”
With world-class facilities, tighter oversight, and a renewed focus on visitor satisfaction, Egypt’s most iconic landmark is now better positioned to offer the kind of unforgettable experience it has always promised.