I. Elkhawas, A. Al Qubaisi
Dep. of Architecture, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates

This paper describes and documents the general procedure followed to create a complete 3D geometric model of the distinguished Jahili Fort located in Al-Ain, one of the major cities the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The model was in-turn used for the development of a virtual reality 3D model that can be viewed and manipulated online.
Al-Jahili fort is one of the most famous historical forts in the UAE. It was built by Sheikh Zayed Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan (Zayed the First, 1855-1909) in 1898. The fort was built for defence purposes and to guard precious palm groves. It was also used as a residence for the local governor. The fort was constructed using mud-brick, stones, and palm-trees products. Al-Jahili fort was selected for this study because of its distinguished architectural and historical value, and also for its simple geometry and texture.
The aim of this study is two folds. The first is to introduce an online easy-access tool for general public. This online tool would inform and increase the public awareness of their-own tangible cultural heritage. The second fold, however, is to present a pilot example for tangible cultural heritage documentation, recording, and online presentation. This pilot model can be applied in the future to other historical sites and buildings in the UAE. The initial results of the above mentioned effort is promising, and it should be further tested on several other buildings and sites.
Key words: Tangible Cultural Heritage, Online Documentation, Virtual Reality, Al Jahili Fort, United Arab Emirates