Building the complex

Engineering a modern marvel

The massive folded cover slab roof is an articulated structure with 50,000 individual cascading triangular panels – not one identical square metre. The roof dimensions, complexity and slopes represented a significant challenge for a global team of 70 engineers. Numerous BIM models (Building Information Modelling) were used to calculate and illustrate the most precise structural relationships, ensuring the perfect alignment of the underside of the roof and its suspended ceilings. This was the first project in Egypt to utilise BIM software.

Expert concrete solutions 

Forming 14,000+ cubic metres of concrete into shape required complex formwork supported by reinforced beams and slabs structures. The concrete itself was the subject of specific research. A French cement and aggregates company spent months testing different mixtures of white concrete to achieve the best compromise between functionality and a surface quality that would withstand the significant stress level.

Ramses II enters early

To accommodate the 80-tonne, 13-metre statue of Ramses II, BESIX worked with partners and the Ministry of Antiquities on a pre-construction move-in date. The giant statue is 3,200 years old and the move-in day was celebrated nationally and documented by National Geographic (video shown below).

Designed for generations to come

The 21^st century museum design was chosen from 1,500 submissions in a worldwide architectural competition. With stunning views to the Giza pyramids two kilometres away, the GEM comprises 133,000 square metres of galleries, central atrium, conference areas, retail, restaurants, children’s museum, 3D cinema, special needs cultural centre, along with virtual reality technology and unique storytelling features.