Preserving built heritage, and heritage areas using advanced geographic information systems (GIS) technologies

AAbstract: Built heritage represents as a tangible reflection of a nation's history and civilization, serving as an integral part of its cultural identity, this heritage is increasingly under threat due to rapid urban expansion, driven by various socioeconomic factors, posing a significant risk of losing cities' unique identities and cultural heritage. This study aims to explore the role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in preserving this built heritage, its types, and patterns of urban growth, while exploring the role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in preserving this built heritage The research focuses on the utilization of advanced GIS technologies at various stages of preservation, including the identifying and documenting heritage sites, analyzing spatial data, studying the drivers of urban growth, and modeling and predicting future urban growth patterns, and assessing the impacts and risks faced by heritage sites, the study seeks to develop heritage management plans. The study presents several prominent examples of the application of advanced GIS technologies in this field. Through this research, we aim to contribute to the development of effective strategies for preserving built heritage and promoting sustainable urban development, thereby achieving a balance between urban development and the protection of heritage areas.