In a groundbreaking announcement, Dr. Zahi Hawas, a renowned Egyptian archaeologist, revealed that a hidden discovery within the Pyramid of Khufu will be unveiled in 2026. This disclosure was made during his session, “Secrets of the Pharaohs,” at the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair.
Advanced excavation techniques have uncovered a mysterious 30-meter void with a door inside the ancient Giza pyramid. Hawas, who previously served as Egypt’s Antiquities Minister and Secretary-General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, stated, “Next year, we will reveal the secrets behind that door.”
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Under the theme “Between You and a Book,” this year’s SIBF, running until November 16, hosts over 300 cultural events with 158 Arab and international guests, alongside 750 workshops in Arabic and English focusing on writing, editing, publishing, and creativity.
Virtual Journey Inside the Pyramid
Prior to the session, a film showcased Hawas’ pyramid explorations, taking the audience on a virtual tour inside the historic marvel.
Reflecting on his greatest archaeological ambitions, Hawas expressed his desire to discover the tombs of Imhotep, the first pyramid’s architect, and Queen Nefertiti.
Hawas detailed his efforts to reclaim Egyptian antiquities and shared insights from his numerous discoveries.
In 2024, Hawas initiated a campaign to repatriate the pharaonic bust of Queen Nefertiti from Berlin’s Neues Museum.
The famous limestone bust, discovered in Tell el-Amarna, 300 km south of Cairo, was taken to Berlin in 1912 by a German archaeological team.
Hawas emphasized that his campaign targets the return of three significant items, including the bust of Nefertiti, the Rosetta Stone, and the Dendera Zodiac, rather than artefacts legally removed from Egypt.
During an interview with Emirati talk show host Anas Bukhash, Hawas expressed his wish to meet King Khufu, if given the chance.
A Generous Act
In his opening remarks, Hawas thanked Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, for his visionary cultural leadership.
Hawas recounted a generous act by the UAE royal, who purchased and returned stolen Egyptian artefacts from Australia to Egypt.
“When I inquired why it was not publicized, he said it was unimportant; the key is to be in people’s hearts,” he noted.
The Grand Egyptian Museum
Hawas also discussed the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) during his speech, highlighting its monumental importance. “I assure you, visiting the museum will fill you with an unparalleled sense of awe,” he proclaimed.
He called GEM, located near the Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the world’s greatest museums, housing over 100,000 artefacts from Ancient Egypt.
