Digital Revival: Virtual Access to Hidden Cultural Heritage - Al Ain Aflaj Discoveries, UAE

Abstract. Over the past five years, extensive archaeological excavations conducted by our dedicated team in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, have revealed more than 60 Aflaj (ancient underground water channels) at over 150 sites, spanning periods from the Iron Age to the Late Islamic era. These discoveries significantly enhance our understanding of ancient water management systems and their essential role in agricultural sustainability and historical development of the region over the last three thousand years. 
This paper introduces the "Aflaj Discoveries" digital platform, developed by the Historic Environment Department of Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism, to activate its role in protecting and preserving cultural heritage while sharing it with a global audience. Our team employed advanced digital documentation methods, including terrestrial 3D laser scanning and close-range photogrammetry, to meticulously record these historically valuable subterranean water systems. Through interactive maps, detailed 3D visualisations, and immersive augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) experiences, the platform provides unprecedented virtual access to cultural heritage sites that are currently inaccessible or hidden, enabling users to explore these sites interactively without physical barriers. 
While creating significant opportunities for public engagement, the development of the Aflaj Discoveries platform faced challenges related to sustainability, management of digital assets, intellectual property rights, and data security. Practical insights from similar UAE-based initiatives, such as Sharjah's Historical Map, Umm Al Quwain's Archaeological Digital Platform, and the Dive into Heritage platform, are explored to illustrate shared challenges and innovative solutions within this evolving domain. Ultimately, this paper offers theoretical reflections and practical recommendations for developing inclusive, accessible, and sustainable digital heritage platforms. It advocates an approach that balances technological innovation, ethical considerations, and practical sustainability, contributing effectively to heritage preservation and dissemination to future generations.