Evaluating Gemini 2.5 Flash Image for Architectural Heritage Documentation in Historic Al-Balad, Jeddah

A study evaluating Gemini 2.5 Flash Image, a generative AI tool, reveals its potential in reconstructing masked architectural elements of historic buildings in Al-Balad, Jeddah, with acceptable visual coherence for Hejazi elements like Roshan and Mangour, as well as façade textures. However, the AI struggles with highly intricate wood latticework and subtle depth variations. The research employed field documentation, controlled masking tests, and expert evaluations to assess accuracy and stylistic coherence, concluding that while generative AI can aid heritage documentation, outputs must be rigorously validated against reliable references. This work contributes to the broader effort of integrating AI into heritage preservation in Saudi Arabia.

Tohlob, A., & Badawi, S. (2026). Evaluating Gemini 2.5 Flash Image for Architectural Heritage Documentation in Historic Al-Balad, Jeddah. 2026 International Conference on AI Innovations and Industry (ICAIII), 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1109/icaiii69475.2026.11521628