Resilient Revitalization of Urban Heritage in the Holy City of Karbala: Challenges and Strategic Responses in the Post-COVID Era

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the challenges and opportunities associated with the urban heritage management in the holy city of Karbala in the post-COVID-19 pandemic phase, focusing on the integration of digital technologies into assessment and urban planning processes, and highlighting the complementary role of governance, local communities, and technology. A mixed methodology was adopted, including field surveys of 200 participants from various groups (residents, visitors, experts, and officials), inferential statistical tests (t-test and chisquare test), spatial analysis using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and interactive modeling using virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) technologies. The results showed statistically significant differences between the different groups in assessing the condition of heritage sites (p < 0.05), and a significant relationship between category type and assessment level. The spatial analysis confirmed the similarity of areas of human pressure with areas of physical deterioration, while the virtual models demonstrated clear potential for reducing congestion and improving the visitor experience. Methodological limitations were identified, including sample bias, a cross-sectional design, and the limited spatial scope of the digital analysis. The originality of this study lies in presenting an integrated applied model that combines statistical and spatial analysis with interactive techniques, providing a practical tool to support decision-making in urban heritage management in holy cities and enhancing the link between governance, innovation, and sustainable planning.