The launch of the new visitor system at the Giza Pyramids, designed to modernize and improve the tourist experience, quickly turned chaotic. What was expected to be a smooth, upgraded operation turned into a day filled with transportation problems, clashes, and heated debates about the future of the historic site.

Here’s everything that happened.

A New System, a New Entrance

On April 8, 2025, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities officially began the trial operation of a new service development project at the Pyramids Plateau.
The project, managed by Orascom Pyramids for Recreational Services, a company affiliated with businessman Naguib Sawiris, aimed to overhaul the visitor experience.

Visitors entered through a new main gate on the Cairo-Fayoum Road, replacing the old Mena House entrance, which was permanently closed.
According to the Ministry, 12,000 visitors used the new entrance on the first day — a 120% increase compared to the previous daily average.

A new internal transport system was also launched, featuring seven dedicated bus stations across the site. Although electric buses are planned, the system currently uses diesel buses temporarily, and fast tourist buses are still allowed inside the archaeological zone for now.

At first, everything seemed to be operating normally. But it didn’t last.

Disruptions Begin: Horse and Camel Owners Protest

The problems started when groups of horse and camel owners, who had long worked inside the Pyramids area, refused to comply with the new rules.
Under the updated system, animal rides were restricted to specific areas away from the main tourist pathways.

Many riders blocked the roads, refusing to leave, which caused severe traffic congestion and delayed bus movements, leaving tourists stranded for long periods between stations.

The Ministry explained that “the disruption was mainly due to some horse and camel owners not adhering to the designated areas assigned to them, causing the blockage of visitor transportation paths.”

Security forces had to intervene to restore order. However, the situation escalated even further later in the day.

Violence Erupts Near the Site

A violent fight broke out between several horsemen near Abu Al-Hol Street in the Saqqara area, close to the Pyramids.
According to security reports, bladed weapons and sticks were used during the clash, causing panic among tourists and locals.

The security forces responded quickly, controlled the situation, arrested 10 individuals, and transferred them to the local police department.
A case was filed, and investigations into the reasons behind the violence are ongoing.

The Ministry described the first day’s incidents as unexpected but emphasized that authorities managed to regain control and resume normal operations shortly afterward.

Ministry of Tourism’s Reaction

Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy issued a statement highlighting that the launch day was meant to be experimental.

He stressed the Ministry’s commitment to closely monitoring operations:

“The goal of the trial phase is to stand on the lessons learned on the ground, build on the positives, and address any negatives or obstacles that may arise.”

Officials from the Supreme Council of Antiquities and the Ministry remained on-site throughout the day to document issues and work on immediate solutions.

Following the disruptions, the Minister directed that more buses be added inside the archaeological area to handle the heavy visitor load.
The Ministry also confirmed that fast tourist buses would continue to have access for now until the full fleet of electric buses arrives.

Orascom Pyramids’ Update

Orascom Pyramids reported that 13,800 visitors were recorded on the first day, slightly higher than the Ministry’s initial figures.

However, the company acknowledged the impact of the protests, stating that “transportation across several points inside the site was stalled because of the horse and camel owners’ refusal to comply with the designated operational plan.”

Orascom emphasized that they are continuing to coordinate with the Ministry to enhance transportation efficiency and improve the overall visitor experience.

Naguib Sawiris Breaks His Silence

Following the disruptions, Naguib Sawiris shared his personal opinion on X (formerly Twitter), posting:

“The public good is more important than 2,000 people who have for years tarnished their country’s image and one of the greatest civilizations of the world.”

Sawiris’ comments triggered major discussions online, where many users agreed with the call for stricter regulations inside the archaeological site.
However, others pointed out that simply banning horse and camel owners could threaten the livelihoods of families who have relied on tourism work for decades.

Public Reactions: Mixed Feelings About Change

While official statements remained optimistic about fixing issues during the trial phase, public sentiment online was divided.

Many social media users expressed frustration over the chaotic scenes, citing embarrassment and concerns over Egypt’s international image.
There was widespread support for regulating or even banning animal rides inside the heritage site, especially highlighting animal welfare issues and visitor safety.

At the same time, a significant number of voices stressed the need for a balanced approach that doesn’t leave local workers without a source of income.
Some called for alternative job opportunities or relocation plans to help horse and camel owners adapt without sudden exclusion.

The incident shed light on long-standing problems at the Pyramids, where modernization efforts have clashed with traditional practices and economic realities.

Can Modernization and Tradition Coexist at the Pyramids?

The launch of the new visitor system showed both the potential and the challenges of updating one of the world’s most iconic tourist sites.
While the record number of visitors points to growing interest in Egypt’s heritage, the chaos on the ground reveals that success will depend on careful management, open dialogue, and inclusive planning.

The coming days will determine whether the authorities and Orascom can find a solution that protects both the Pyramids’ reputation and the people who have worked around them for generations.