Museum of Islamic Art

About Museum of Islamic Art

The Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo houses one of the world's foremost collections of Islamic material culture. Located in the heart of Historic Cairo, the institution preserves and displays artistic and historical objects spanning multiple centuries of Islamic civilization. The museum's holdings represent diverse geographic regions where Islamic artistic traditions flourished. Its position within a UNESCO World Heritage area underscores its cultural significance. Sunday–Saturday 09:00–17:00. Last ticket at 16:00. The Ministry lists the museum as open on all seven days, with no weekly closure day. Ramadan hours are 09:00–15:00, with the last ticket at 14:00.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

What's inside

The collection encompasses manuscripts, ceramics, metalwork, textiles, woodwork, glass, and stone objects demonstrating Islamic artistic achievement. Rare Qurans and calligraphic works feature prominently among the holdings. Decorative arts from across the Islamic world illustrate regional variations in technique and style. Scientific instruments reveal historical contributions to astronomy and mathematics. Thematic displays organize material by medium or historical period, facilitating comparative understanding. The Ministry lists the museum as open on all seven days, with no weekly closure day. Ramadan hours are 09:00–15:00, with the last ticket at 14:00. General adult admission is EGP 340 for foreign visitors and EGP 20 for Egyptian visitors.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

How long to spend

Visitors typically allocate two to three hours for a meaningful initial visit, though dedicated enthusiasts may prefer extended engagement. The depth of collection rewards careful examination of individual objects and their explanatory labels. First-time visitors might prioritize highlights across multiple galleries rather than attempting comprehensive coverage. Repeat visits allow deeper exploration of specific media such as ceramics or metalwork. Personal pacing depends on individual interest in Islamic art history and tolerance for museum environments. General adult admission is EGP 340 for foreign visitors and EGP 20 for Egyptian visitors.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Season and crowds

Visitors should verify current opening schedules through official channels before planning their visit. The museum's location in central Cairo means it is accessible throughout the year, though seasonal factors including heat and local holidays may influence visitor comfort and crowd levels. Morning visits potentially offer quieter conditions for concentrated viewing. Sunday–Saturday 09:00–17:00. Last ticket at 16:00. The Port Said Street main entrance has 12 steps on each side; wheelchair users can enter through the side entrance. A ramped entrance, elevator and accessible toilet are available.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Tickets

Potential categories may include adult, student, and possibly guided tour fees, though specifics require direct verification. Some national museums in Egypt have implemented variable pricing structures for foreign visitors. Visitors should carry adequate local currency and anticipate possible credit card limitations. General adult admission is EGP 340 for foreign visitors and EGP 20 for Egyptian visitors. The Port Said Street main entrance has 12 steps on each side; wheelchair users can enter through the side entrance. A ramped entrance, elevator and accessible toilet are available.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Getting there

The museum occupies a central position in Historic Cairo near Bab al-Khalq square, accessible from multiple directions. Public transportation including metro service reaches nearby stations with walking connections. Taxis and ride-hailing services operate throughout Cairo though traffic congestion is characteristic. The museum is on Port Said Street at Bab el-Khalq. Mohamed Naguib metro station is about 850 metres away and Attaba station about 1,800 metres away. Bus routes 63, 66, 149, 166, 235, 406, 815, 924, 926, 1026, 1031 and 1065 stop on Port Said Street. For a taxi, ask for the Museum of Islamic Art at Bab el-Khalq. Public parking is scarce; the nearest stated car park is opposite the museum on Port Said Street.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

What to watch out for

Historic Cairo's dense urban environment requires standard urban awareness regarding traffic and personal belongings. The museum building underwent significant restoration following a 2014 bombing incident; visitors should respect any ongoing security protocols. Climate control variations between galleries and exterior spaces may affect comfort. Photography restrictions may apply to specific objects or galleries; visitors should observe posted guidelines and staff direction. The Port Said Street main entrance has 12 steps on each side; wheelchair users can enter through the side entrance. Limited accessible parking is available in the museum forecourt; the museum requests the vehicle registration number, make, model and visit date in advance.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Photography

Many museums permit non-flash photography in permanent galleries while restricting images of loan exhibitions or specific sensitive materials. Flash photography typically damages light-sensitive artifacts including textiles and manuscripts. Tripods and professional equipment usually require advance authorization. Visitors should observe posted signage and comply with staff instructions regarding camera use. Video recording may face separate restrictions. Social media sharing of permitted photographs generally raises no concerns provided it does not disrupt other visitors or imply institutional endorsement. Yes. The Ministry lists opening hours of 09:00–17:00 from Sunday through Saturday, with the last ticket sold at 16:00.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Where it is

• 30 min

  7 min walk

  Sultan Al-Muayyad Mosque

  • Must see · Heritage site
  • Place of worship
• 45 min

  7 min walk

  Bab Zuweila

  • Must see · Heritage site
  • Historic monument
• 45 min

  7 min walk

  Abdeen Palace

  • Must see
  • Historic monument

External links

• View on Wikidata