Cultural Heritage Management Using Remote Sensing Data and GIS Techniques around the Archaeological Area of Ancient Jeddah in Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia

Historic Jeddah, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, faces significant environmental and structural challenges due to unplanned urban development. A study integrating remote sensing data and GIS techniques reveals that the city's southern region is well-developed with robust infrastructure, while the middle area exhibits high vulnerability risks, including population density, shallow water depth, flat slopes, and incomplete network services. The western and northwestern parts are particularly prone to pollution risk due to highly permeable coralline formations, very shallow water depths, and depressions. These findings highlight the urgent need for innovative solutions to protect the archaeological area. By analyzing data from multiple sources—including SRTM, Corona 1966, Spot 1986, Landsat 1987, Orbview 2003, and Sentinel-2A 2017—the study employs band combinations and spatial statistical analysis to monitor changes and assess geo-environmental status. The research suggests GIS techniques and models as potential solutions to mitigate these risks, aligning with UNESCO recommendations for cultural heritage management.

Elfadaly, A., Shams eldein, A., & Lasaponara, R. (2019). Cultural Heritage Management Using Remote Sensing Data and GIS Techniques around the Archaeological Area of Ancient Jeddah in Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia. Sustainability, 12(1), 240. https://doi.org/10.3390/su12010240