A highly anticipated exhibition at the Hong Kong Palace Museum of relics from ancient Egypt descended into chaos on Saturday, with visitors complaining a confusing queuing system left them waiting for hours and many demanding a refund.

The museum apologised in the evening and promised to offer additional access for the affected visitors.

“Ancient Egypt Unveiled: Treasures from Egyptian Museums” features 250 artefacts, including a towering statue of Tutankhamun, and is the largest display yet of relics from the ancient civilisation in the city.

Egyptian Deputy Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Yomna El-Bahar came to Hong Kong for the opening on Thursday.

The nine-month exhibition is a follow-up to a highly successful one in Shanghai that came ahead of celebrations to mark 70 years of diplomatic ties between China and the Middle Eastern country next year.