The Art of Preservation: Bridging Historical Narratives and Modern Visual Expression in Omani Heritage Sites

Modern visual technologies, including virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), offer a transformative approach to preserving and presenting Oman's rich historical heritage, such as Bahla Fort. By minimizing direct interaction with fragile sites, these tools create immersive, educational experiences that engage both local and global audiences while fostering eco-friendly tourism. The integration of digital reconstructions—ranging from ancient cities to traditional handicrafts—enhances narrative accessibility and generates new economic opportunities in innovation and preservation. This method not only attracts more visitors but also encourages intergenerational knowledge transfer, making heritage more appealing to younger generations. The study positions Oman as a potential leader in Gulf region cultural tourism by blending artistic, technological, and historical narratives.

Soliman, A. E., Jerzy Wierzbicki, Ossama Hegazy, Hanna Al-Lawati, Sarra Mrabti, & Muznah Almiqbali. (2026). The Art of Preservation: Bridging Historical Narratives and Modern Visual Expression in Omani Heritage Sites. International Conference on Tourism Research, 9(1), 442–450. https://doi.org/10.34190/ictr.9.1.4393