What items are not allowed inside the museum (e.g. bags, food, professional cameras, strollers)?

The Grand Egyptian Museum has strict security policies prohibiting large bags, weapons, food, professional photography equipment, and other items to protect visitors and preserve the collection.

The Grand Egyptian Museum enforces comprehensive security policies to protect artifacts and ensure visitor safety. The following items are strictly prohibited:

Luggage and Bags:

  • Large bags, backpacks, luggage, or parcels exceeding 40 × 40 cm – Must be stored in the designated cloakroom before entering

  • Large suitcases and bulky trolleys – Not permitted in galleries; must use storage facilities

  • Small bags and backpacks – May be subject to search at any time by security staff

Weapons and Sharp Objects:

  • Knives, scissors, screwdrivers, and similar sharp items

  • Firearms and weapons of any kind

  • Hazardous or flammable materials

  • All weapons and dangerous materials must be stored in the cloakroom

Food and Beverages:

  • Outside food and beverages are strictly prohibited on the museum premises

  • Small personal water bottles – Only exception; must be resealable and not open in galleries

  • Alcoholic beverages – Consumption is strictly prohibited

  • Chewing gum – Not allowed in exhibition areas

  • Dining Options: Use designated cafes and restaurants within the museum complex for food and drinks

Professional Photography and Video Equipment:

  • Tripods and monopods – Not allowed

  • Selfie sticks – Prohibited

  • Drones and similar devices – Strictly forbidden (requires Civil Aviation Authority approval)

  • External lighting and flash photography – Not permitted

  • Professional cameras – May be restricted; must check with staff upon entry

  • Live-streaming devices – Prohibited

  • Commercial photography or videography – Requires prior written approval from GEM management and applicable fees

Photography Restrictions by Area:

  • Royal Mummies Room: Photography strictly prohibited

  • Tutankhamun Mask Gallery: No photography allowed

  • Special Exhibitions: May have additional restrictions

  • Personal Photography Permitted: Smartphone and non-flash photography in most public galleries

Animals and Pets:

  • Pets and animals of any kind – Completely prohibited inside the museum and on the premises

  • Service animals – Verify current policy with museum staff in advance

Other Prohibited Items:

  • Musical instruments

  • Umbrellas – Must be stored in the cloakroom

  • Folding seats or portable seating – Not allowed unless permission obtained from security

  • Advertising banners, placards, or signs – Prohibited unless expressly approved by GEM management

  • Smoking – Prohibited inside the museum (only allowed in designated outdoor areas)

Strollers and Mobility Devices:

  • Baby strollers and large mobility devices – May need to be stored; confirm with staff

  • Wheelchairs – Permitted; accessible throughout the museum

Behavioral Restrictions:

  • Disorderly, aggressive, or offensive behavior – Will result in removal from museum without refund

  • Loud, disruptive, or abusive language – Not tolerated

  • Touching artifacts or display cases – Strictly prohibited

  • Photographing other visitors or staff without consent – Not allowed

Security Procedures:

All visitors must:

  • Pass through security checkpoints with X-ray screening of bags

  • Pass through metal detectors

  • Comply with security staff instructions

  • Allow inspection of ID, bags, luggage, and ticket upon request

  • Retrieve stored items before museum closing time (GEM not responsible for items left overnight)

Photography Recommendations:

DO:

  • Use smartphones for personal photography in permitted areas

  • Respect “no photography” signs and staff instructions

  • Check photography zones before taking photos

DON’T:

  • Use flash photography

  • Bring tripods or professional equipment without permission

  • Take photos in restricted areas (Tutankhamun galleries)

  • Attempt commercial photography without prior approval

What You CAN Bring:

  • Smartphones and mobile devices

  • Refillable water bottles (empty)

  • Small personal items under 40 × 40 cm

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Light jacket or sweater (museum is air-conditioned)

  • Small cameras without flash or tripod (verify current policy)

  • Eyeglasses and personal medication

Before Your Visit:

For detailed information on current policies:

  1. My Egypt Travel: Contact through Grand Egyptian Museum visits

    • Professional guides familiar with all restrictions

    • Can advise on what to bring before your visit

Important Note:

Policies are regularly updated, especially regarding professional photography equipment. It is strongly recommended to check the official website before your visit for the latest restrictions, as photography rules may change. Museum staff can provide clarification at the security checkpoint if you have specific questions about items you wish to bring.

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