Egypt Makeover | For generations, the Pyramids of Giza have drawn visitors with their sheer scale and mystery—rising from the desert as eternal sentinels of ancient Egypt. These monumental tombs of Pharaohs Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure are among the last-standing wonders of the ancient world, drawing over 2.5 million travellers each year. Yet for many, the reality of visiting them has long been marred by sweltering heat, dense crowds, pushy hawkers, and crumbling infrastructure.
But a new era is dawning at Giza. The iconic plateau is undergoing a major revival thanks to a sweeping USD 30 million overhaul. Set to be officially unveiled on July 3, 2025, the reimagined site now offers a more intriguing experience. With eco-friendly shuttle buses replacing long treks, crowd control measures in place, and the arrival of tasteful dining options that overlook the pyramids, the mystique of Giza can now be enjoyed with ease.
According to multiple reports, this ambitious revamp is a public-private partnership between the Egyptian government and Orascom Pyramids Entertainment (OPE), headed by billionaire Naguib Sawiris. Since signing the deal in 2018, the mission has been clear: preserve the mystique of the pyramids while reimagining the visitor journey to meet today’s expectations.
The overhaul is a complete rethink of the visitor flow and facilities across the vast Giza Plateau. Instead of battling unruly queues or navigating the desert on foot under the blazing sun, tourists are now transported in shuttles, linking key monuments like the Sphinx, the Solar Boat Museum, and the three main pyramids. The once-overbearing presence of hawkers has been regulated, creating a more organised set-up, suggest reports.
Best Time to Visit: October to April offers cooler weather and clearer skies.
Getting There: Located about 30 minutes from central Cairo, the Giza Plateau is accessible via taxis, private tours, or the new visitor shuttle service from designated hubs.
Opening Hours: 7 AM- 5 PM
Check out the official website (egymonuments.gov.eg/en/monuments/the-great-pyramid) for bookings and other details.
(With inputs from multiple reports)
