Innovative Approaches to Heritage Preservation: Augmented Reality and Islamic Architecture in Egypt

Abstract

Preserving Islamic architectural heritage is vital for safeguarding cultural identity and maintaining historical continuity, particularly in Egypt, where landmarks like Al-Muizz Street embody centuries of architectural brilliance and cultural heritage. This study investigates the use of Augmented Reality (AR) as an innovative approach to the preservation, documentation, and promotion of Islamic architectural heritage, focusing on Al-Muizz Street as a case study. The research explores key applications of AR, including 3D modeling, virtual reconstruction of damaged structures, and mobile AR applications designed to enhance visitor engagement and educational experiences. The findings demonstrate AR's potential to preserve intricate architectural details through precise digital documentation and enable virtual restoration of deteriorated or missing elements, thus complementing traditional conservation methods. Furthermore, AR-powered mobile applications enhance visitor experiences by offering interactive guided tours, historical overlays, and multilingual content, fostering greater appreciation for the site’s historical significance. Comparative analysis reveals AR's unique advantages in visualization, accessibility, and immersive learning, though challenges such as high implementation costs, limited technical expertise, and inadequate digital infrastructure persist. To overcome these barriers, the study recommends increased financial investments, targeted training programs, upgrades in digital infrastructure, and public awareness campaigns. This research underscores the transformative potential of AR in preserving Egypt’s Islamic architectural heritage while providing practical insights for its broader application in cultural heritage conservation.