A Journey Through the World’s Greatest Open-Air Museum
Design Matters National (DMN) has announced its 11th International Study Tour — a 14-day architectural journey through Egypt from 23 March to 4 April 2026.
This much-anticipated tour invites members and their guests to experience the world’s greatest open-air museum, where the story of civilisation is written in stone, sand, and sky.
Exploring Architecture That Defined Civilisation
From the monumental geometry of the Pyramids of Giza to the sacred symmetry of Luxor’s temples and the urban texture of Old Cairo, participants will explore how ancient architecture continues to influence contemporary design thinking.
The itinerary offers a blend of education, inspiration, and connection — tailored to the professional curiosity of Australian building designers and design-aligned professionals.
A Long-Awaited Return
“It’s incredibly exciting to invite DMN members to join our community on this architectural adventure,” said Danielle Johnston, CEO of Design Matters National.
“Our 2020 Egypt tour was cancelled because of the global pandemic, so it’s wonderful to be able to deliver on that long-awaited promise. Egypt is on almost everyone’s bucket list, and we expect there will be intense interest.”
Comprehensive Inclusions and Comfort
The tour includes 14 days of guided exploration, a three-night Nile River cruise, hand-picked accommodation, 14 meals, and return flights from Sydney, with optional departures from Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth, and Auckland. A dedicated tour manager and local guides will provide context and commentary, blending historical insight with design relevance.
Architectural Highlights
Architectural highlights include the Pyramids and Sphinx, the Temple of Hatshepsut, the Valley of the Kings, Karnak and Luxor Temples, and Cairo’s Coptic and Islamic quarters. Optional experiences such as Abu Simbel — one of UNESCO’s most impressive relocation projects — offer once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to witness design and engineering excellence across millennia.
Design Lessons from the Ancient World
In keeping with DMN’s ethos of continuous professional development, the Egypt Study Tour is designed to inspire participants to think critically about materials, spatial planning, and cultural continuity. The tour not only showcases Egypt’s iconic landmarks but also reflects on how design serves as a bridge between the ancient and the modern.
Pricing and Options
Prices for the tour start at $6,199 per person (Twin Share) for DMN Members, or $7,749 per person (Single), inclusive of flights from Sydney.
Non-members are welcome to join for a modest additional cost, reinforcing DMN’s reputation for fostering inclusive learning and industry connection through global experiences.
A Legacy of Learning Through Travel
This marks DMN’s 11th international study tour, following previous programs in destinations including Italy, Japan, Scandinavia, the United States, and this year, from 10-16 November. Each tour continues to strengthen the association’s reputation for offering members more than professional development — it offers community, inspiration, and the joy of shared discovery.
Secure Your Place
Registrations close at 11:59pm AEDT on 14 November 2025, and places are limited.
Those interested are encouraged to read the full itinerary and terms and conditions, then complete the registration form.
If you have any questions, contact us at [email protected]
Join the Adventure
Step into the world’s greatest open-air museum — where architecture has defined civilisation — and experience Egypt with Design Matters National in 2026.