However, shortly after the launch, Egyptian citizens began experiencing issues when attempting to book tickets. Many reported being turned away at the entrance and told that only online bookings were accepted. Attempts to book through the online system were often met with messages indicating that tickets for Egyptians were "sold out." In contrast, foreign and Arab tourists appeared able to book tickets without similar difficulties.

The fact-checking platform Saheeh Masr (Right Egypt), operating under the Arabic hashtag #صحيح_مصر, conducted a comparative test. According to their findings, foreign visitors and Arab tourists were able to reserve tickets successfully, while Egyptian users attempting to book the same time slots received "sold out" notifications.

This incident generated significant public reaction across various platforms, including X, Reddit, and local forums. Many users expressed frustration, raising concerns about transparency, fairness, and the museum's intended audience.

In response to the criticism, museum officials stated that there is no explicit prioritisation of foreign visitors. However, they acknowledged that a portion of tickets is allocated for international tourists and that online booking restrictions are implemented during peak times to manage crowd control.

The controversy has sparked debate over whether the GEM underestimated domestic interest or if the decision is financially motivated, as ticket prices for foreign visitors are higher. The situation has prompted a broader discussion about whether the museum, intended to represent and celebrate Egyptian heritage, is accessible enough to its own citizens.

“We jointly celebrate the Grand Egyptian Museum's opening; we write a new chapter in this ancient nation's history,” El-Sisi said in his address. “This stands as the world's largest museum dedicated to one civilisation – Egypt's eternal civilisation whose splendour never fades.”

The president emphasised the role of international collaboration in bringing the decades-long project to fruition, highlighting Japan's significant support.

The Grand Egyptian Museum, located near the Giza Pyramids, is considered the largest cultural structure built in the 21st century. Although first conceived in the 1990s, the foundation stone was laid in 2002 under the supervision of UNESCO.

Designed as one of the most advanced and expansive museum complexes globally, GEM aims to welcome seven million visitors annually in its initial phase, targeting a total of 30 million visitors by 2031.