Gihane Zaki has been appointed Egypt’s Minister of Culture, becoming the third woman to lead the ministry in the country’s history.
Zaki succeeds Nevine Al-Kilani, who held the post from August 2022 to June 2024, and Ines Abdel-Dayem, who served as the first female minister in the role from January 2018 to August 2022. Her appointment follows a career across international cultural diplomacy, museum management, and academia.
Museum and Institutional Leadership
Zaki previously served as the head of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) during its preparation and operational phases. In this role, she managed heritage and archaeological protocols according to global standards for one of the region’slargest cultural projects.
She also served as the director of the Egyptian Academy of Arts in Rome, the first woman to hold that position. During her tenure, she focused on establishing cultural partnerships with European institutions and expanding Egypt’s artistic presence abroad.
International Diplomacy and UNESCO
Zaki’s background in international policy includes a term as Egypt’s representative to UNESCO. She also served as a regional consultant for the organisation, specialising in the implementation of global policies for the protection of cultural and natural heritage.
In 2025, Zaki was awarded the Legion of Honour by French President Emmanuel Macron. The distinction recognised her contributions to cultural dialogue between Mediterranean nations.
Academic Credentials
A specialist in ancient civilisations, Zaki holds a PhD in Egyptology from the Lumière University Lyon 2 in France. Her academic career includes:
- University Post:Professor at Helwan University.
- Expertise:Representing the Egyptian government in the UNESCO Convention for the Protection of Cultural and Natural Heritage.
The Ministry of Culture under Zaki is expected to focus on the management of national heritage, the development ofcreative industries, and the use of cultural diplomacy as a component of Egypt’s regional influence.
