Augmented Reality as a Tool for Enhancing Cultural Tourism through the Journey of the Sun God in the Amduat

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Tourism Guidance Department, Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, University of Sadat City

2 Tourism Studies Department, Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, Luxor University

3 Tourism Studies Department, Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, University of Sadat City

Abstract

This paper presents an investigation into the application of Augmented Reality (AR) as a tool for enhancing cultural tourism through the exploration of the Amduat, a significant text in ancient Egyptian religious and cultural studies that narrates the night journey of the sun god Re. Employing a mixed-methods approach encompassing descriptive-analytical and design-based research, this study analyzes the artistic, linguistic, and symbolic dimensions of the Amduat. A framework integrating AR, Artificial Inteligence, and interactive design was developed through consultations with experts in Egyptology, tourism, and technology to provide an accessible and innovative presentation of this ancient narrative. The findings demonstrate the potential of AR to promote cultural heritage preservation, facilitate comprehension of complex theological concepts, and engage a broader audience while upholding historical authenticity. The study recommends expanding the applications of augmented reality to enhance the preservation of Egypt's cultural heritage and develop innovative tourism products. It emphasizes the need for collaboration to develop high-quality digital content that combines historical accuracy with technological innovation. Moreover, the study underscores the importance of investing in the necessary technological infrastructure to support these applications.

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