Mecca, officially known as Makkah al-Mukarramah, stands as the spiritual and cultural nucleus of Islam, situated in the Hejaz region of western Saudi Arabia. Revered as the holiest city in Islam, it holds immense significance as the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad and the epicenter of Islamic pilgrimage, known as the Ḥajj. Located 70 km inland from Jeddah on the Red Sea, Mecca is nestled in a narrow valley, 277 m above sea level, hosting a metropolitan population of 2.4 million in 2022, making it the third-most populous city in Saudi Arabia.
Mecca is inseparable from Islamic history and tradition, considered the birthplace of Islam. The Hira cave, atop the Jabal al-Nur ("Mountain of Light"), is where Muslims believe the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad. The city boasts the Great Mosque, Masjid al-Haram, housing the Ka'bah—a structure believed by Muslims to have been built by Abraham and Ishmael. The annual pilgrimage to Mecca is a religious obligation for Muslims worldwide.
Throughout history, Mecca has witnessed numerous regime changes as Muslim rulers sought to control the city. Ibn Saud and his allies conquered Mecca in 1925, leading to significant expansions and modernizations, including the iconic Abraj Al Bait. However, these developments have come with the destruction of historical structures, a practice justified by the need to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims. Under the Saudi government, Mecca is governed by the Mecca Regional Municipality, led by locally elected officials and a mayor appointed by the Saudi government, exemplified by Mayor Saleh Al-Turki as of January 2022.
As the capital of the Mecca Province, it plays a pivotal role in the broader governance of the region, which includes Jeddah and Ta'if. Strictly off-limits to non-Muslims, Mecca continues to be a symbol of spiritual unity and devotion for millions of Muslims globally.
Mecca, officially Makkah Al-Mukarramah, translates to "Makkah, the Honoured!" or "The Holy City of Makkah." Despite its recorded history dating back to Prophet Muhammad's birth in 570, Mecca is considered one of the oldest inhabited cities globally. The city's origins are linked to Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who, according to the Quran, left his son and wife Hajar (AS) in Mecca. The ancient Zamzam well, believed to exist for over 5,000 years, further attests to Mecca's rich history.
Mecca was formerly referred to as Bakkah City, an ancient name mentioned in the Quran to describe the location of the Holy Kaaba. The Quran states, "The first House (of worship) appointed for men was that at Bakka," (Surah Al-Imran: 3:96). While interpretations equate Bakkah to Mecca, the Quran doesn't explicitly confirm the alternative name, introducing an element of uncertainty.
Masjid Al Haram, the oldest and largest mosque in Islamic history, encompasses 356,000 square meters and centers around the Holy Kaaba. Virtues of praying in Masjid Al Haram are emphasized in hadiths, and the Quran references the mosque multiple times. Notably, Mecca never served as the capital of any Islamic Empire, including the Ottoman, Safavid, and Mughal Empires.
While Medina is often associated with Prophet Muhammad, he spent a significant portion of his life in Mecca. Born in Mecca in 570 A.D., the Prophet lived there until the age of 53 before migrating to Medina in 632 A.D. The city holds a pivotal place in Islamic history as the birthplace of the Prophet.
Mecca hosts the world's largest human gathering during the Hajj pilgrimage, a fundamental pillar of Islam. Pilgrims from around the globe visit Mecca during Dhu-al-Hijjah, with the largest gathering recorded in 2012, attracting over 3 million Muslims. Strict laws prohibit non-Muslims from entering Mecca, and the city is safeguarded as a religious sanctuary.
The Makkah Royal Clock Tower, part of the Abraj Al-Bait complex, houses the world's largest clock with a diameter of 141 feet. Completed in 2012, it stands as the third-tallest building globally. The clock, situated on the top eight storeys, issues the call for prayer five times a day with its green and white L.E.D. lights and speakers, audible from over four miles away.
Following the pandemic-induced decline in pilgrim numbers, Mecca is projected to host over 30 million visitors annually by 2030. As the world returns to normalcy, the Holy City anticipates a resurgence in pilgrims participating in Hajj and Umrah, reaffirming its role as a focal point for millions of devout Muslims.
Mecca's early history is unclear due to limited archaeological evidence and historical references. The first clear mention of Mecca in non-Islamic literature occurs in 741 CE, but earlier references are ambiguous. Scholars have debated references in ancient works like those of Diodorus Siculus and Ptolemy, with conflicting interpretations.
In 2010, Mecca gained significance in paleontology with the discovery of a Saadanius fossil, closely related to the common ancestor of Old World monkeys and apes, dating back to 28-29 million years ago. However, pre-Islamic historical records about Mecca are scarce, and it was likely a small town with a population of around 550 at the time of Muhammad.
By the 5th century, Mecca was controlled by the Quraish tribe, who made it a center for trade. The city played a crucial role in the spice trade and became a major trading outpost, facilitating commerce with the Roman Empire. The annual pilgrimage to Mecca provided a platform for trade, dispute resolution, and cultural exchange among Arabian tribes.
The "Year of the Elephant" in 570 CE is notable, with Abraha attempting to divert the pilgrimage from the Ka'bah to a cathedral he built. According to Islamic tradition, the invasion failed, attributed to divine intervention.
Muhammad, born in Mecca in 570 CE, received divine revelations in the nearby Hira cave, leading to the emergence of Islam. After facing persecution in Mecca for 13 years, Muhammad and his followers migrated to Medina in 622 CE. In 630 CE, Muhammad returned to Mecca, conquering the city, destroying pagan symbols, and establishing it as the holiest site in Islam.
While Mecca was never a capital of Islamic states, Muslim rulers contributed to its upkeep. Ibn Battuta's 14th-century account describes Mecca's significance as a pilgrimage destination. The Ottomans, though initially planning a railway to Mecca, had to abandon the project due to World War I.
During World War I, Mecca witnessed the Sharif of Mecca's revolt against the Ottoman Empire, leading to the establishment of the Kingdom of Hejaz. In 1924, the Saud family overthrew the Sharif, incorporating Mecca into Saudi Arabia. Since then, Mecca has experienced extensive development, including expansions and modern transportation infrastructure. However, historic buildings have been significantly demolished for urban development, causing controversies.
Mecca has faced challenges during the annual Hajj pilgrimage, with incidents like the 1990 tunnel tragedy and the 2015 stampede at Mina, highlighting the difficulties in managing large crowds.
Under Saudi rule, a considerable number of Mecca's historic buildings, some over a thousand years old, have been demolished since 1985. The destruction was primarily driven by the construction of infrastructure for Hajj pilgrims, such as hotels and parking lots. Notable structures, including Muhammad's birthplace, have been lost.
The administration of the city of Mecca is intricately linked to the broader administrative structure of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. As a crucial religious and cultural center, Mecca holds immense significance, and its administration is characterized by a combination of local governance and oversight from the national government.
Mecca is part of the Makkah Province, one of the administrative divisions of Saudi Arabia. The city's governance falls under the purview of the regional authorities, which operate within the framework established by the central government. The administrative responsibilities in Mecca include urban planning, infrastructure development, public services, and maintaining the sanctity and functionality of religious sites.
At the local level, Mecca has its municipal administration, responsible for managing day-to-day affairs, public services, and urban development within the city. The municipality plays a crucial role in ensuring that the city meets the needs of its residents and the millions of pilgrims who visit annually. This includes maintaining roads, sanitation, and overseeing local projects that contribute to the city's overall development.
The city administration collaborates closely with various government agencies to manage the annual Hajj pilgrimage, one of the largest and most intricate religious gatherings globally. Coordinating logistics, ensuring safety, and providing essential services during the Hajj season require meticulous planning and collaboration between local and national authorities.
The Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs in Saudi Arabia plays a significant role in guiding and supporting the local administration in Mecca. It sets policies and guidelines for urban development, infrastructure projects, and municipal services, ensuring alignment with broader national objectives.
Given Mecca's unique status as a holy city, the administration also works to preserve its cultural and religious heritage. Efforts are made to balance the modernization and development of the city with the need to maintain the sacredness of its sites and traditions.
The administrative landscape of Mecca reflects the dual nature of the city: a global pilgrimage destination deeply rooted in Islamic history and a dynamic urban center with evolving infrastructure and services. As Saudi Arabia continues to pursue Vision 2030, an ambitious plan for economic and social transformation, Mecca's administration will likely play a crucial role in shaping the city's future while preserving its cultural and religious identity.
The business environment in the city of Mecca is deeply influenced by its status as the holiest city in Islam and the annual influx of millions of pilgrims. The economy of Mecca has traditionally been reliant on the pilgrimage industry, particularly during the Umrah and Hajj seasons. Pilgrims contribute significantly to the local economy through various means, including taxes, transportation, and accommodation services. The pilgrimage industry has a far-reaching impact, not only on Mecca's economy but also on the broader Arabian Peninsula.
Historically, one method of generating income in Mecca has been through taxing pilgrims. During times of economic challenges, such as the Great Depression, taxes were increased to support the city's financial needs. Services provided to pilgrims, such as transportation by the Saudi flag carrier Saudia and accommodations in hotels, also contribute substantially to the city's revenue. The city takes in substantial income, exceeding $100 million, while the Saudi government allocates around $50 million for services related to the Hajj.
While the pilgrimage industry remains a cornerstone of the Meccan economy, the city has diversified its economic activities in recent years. Some industries and factories have been established, including those involved in textiles, furniture, and utensil manufacturing. Additionally, various enterprises have been set up since the 1970s, ranging from corrugated iron manufacturing to banking. The economic landscape of Mecca is primarily service-oriented, with an increasing focus on industries beyond the pilgrimage sector.
The ongoing development of a new industrial city in the Al Akashiya district by the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones signifies a concerted effort to diversify and expand Mecca's economic base. Covering an extensive area of 45 square kilometers (11,000 acres), this industrial initiative aims to bring new opportunities for businesses, fostering growth beyond the traditional pilgrimage-related activities.
In recent decades, the convenience and affordability of air travel have led to a significant increase in the number of pilgrims visiting Mecca, stimulating economic growth. The city has experienced substantial urban development, marked by the construction of freeways, shopping malls, and skyscrapers. The continual demand for housing and services, driven by the employment of thousands of Saudis year-round to manage the Hajj and cater to pilgrims, has contributed to the expansion and modernization of Mecca.
The economy of Mecca has historically been closely tied to the influx of pilgrims undertaking the Umrah and Hajj. Pilgrimage-related activities have not only fueled the local economy but have also exerted a significant impact on the broader Arabian Peninsula's economic landscape. One primary source of income has been the taxation of pilgrims, with levies being particularly heightened during periods like the Great Depression, persisting until around 1972. Additionally, services provided to pilgrims, including transportation, accommodation, and other amenities, contribute substantially to the city's revenue. For instance, Saudia, the national airline, derives 12% of its income from pilgrimage-related services.
The financial dynamics of the Hajj extend beyond transportation, involving various sectors such as hospitality. Fares paid by pilgrims traveling to Mecca, as well as the revenue generated by hotels and lodging establishments, collectively contribute to the city's income, surpassing $100 million. In contrast, the Saudi government allocates approximately $50 million for Hajj-related services. Despite the presence of some industries, such as textiles, furniture, and utensil manufacturing, Mecca no longer holds a central role in Saudi Arabia's oil-dependent economy. The city has evolved into a predominantly service-oriented economy.
Over the years, Mecca has witnessed the establishment of diverse industries since the 1970s, ranging from corrugated iron manufacturing and copper extraction to carpentry, upholstery, bakeries, farming, and banking. The city has experienced significant growth in the 20th and 21st centuries, largely attributed to the increased accessibility and affordability of air travel, leading to a rise in the number of pilgrims participating in the Hajj. This growth has generated year-round employment opportunities for thousands of Saudis involved in overseeing the pilgrimage and staffing the various facilities catering to pilgrims. Consequently, the heightened demand for housing and services has transformed Mecca's urban landscape, with the city now featuring freeways, shopping malls, and skyscrapers.
Furthermore, there are ongoing initiatives to develop a new industrial city in the Al Akashiya district of Makkah, led by the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones. Encompassing an extensive area of 45 square kilometers (11,000 acres), this industrial city aims to diversify economic activities and contribute to the city's sustained development.
In the realm of education, formal schooling started to take shape during the late Ottoman period, gaining momentum into Hashemite times. A pivotal initiative to enhance education was the establishment of Madrasat al-Falāḥ in 1911–12 by Jeddah merchant Muhammad ʿAlī Zaynal Riḍā, at a considerable cost of £400,000. Presently, Mecca boasts a comprehensive school system, comprising 532 public and private schools for males and 681 for female students as of 2005. The city's sole university, Umm Al-Qura University, originally founded as a college in 1949, attained university status in 1981.
Healthcare in Mecca is facilitated by ten main hospitals, including Ajyad Hospital, King Faisal Hospital, and King Abdulaziz Hospital, among others. The Saudi government provides free healthcare to all pilgrims, offering crucial medical services during the annual Hajj. Walk-in clinics cater to both residents and pilgrims, with additional temporary clinics established during the Hajj to attend to the medical needs of participants.
Mecca's vibrant culture is significantly influenced by the diverse influx of pilgrims arriving each year. The city's culinary landscape is marked by the popularity of Al Baik, a local fast-food chain renowned for its fried chicken. Sporting activities have evolved over time, with football emerging as the most popular sport in Mecca, hosting some of the oldest sport clubs in Saudi Arabia, such as Al Wahda FC.
Demographically, Mecca is densely populated, particularly in the Old City around the Great Mosque, where long-term residents reside and contribute to the thriving Hajj industry. The city sees a constant stream of pilgrims for the Umrah throughout the year, with a significant surge during the Hajj season, attracting 2–4 million Muslims annually. The diverse pilgrims, hailing from South and Southeast Asia, Europe, and Africa, have contributed to the city's multicultural character.
Architecturally, Mecca boasts landmarks like the Abraj al-Bait Complex, featuring the world's fourth-tallest building with a central clock tower. The Mecca Gate, also known as the Quran Gate, marks the western entrance to the city and signifies the boundary of the Haram area, where non-Muslims are restricted.
In the realm of communication, Mecca has seen advancements in press, television, and radio. The city has its own newspapers, including Al Nadwa, alongside other Saudi and international publications. Telecommunications, initiated early under the Saudi reign, have become integral to governance and convenience. The city has multiple television stations and radio channels, with broadcasts playing a crucial role during the pilgrimage.
Mecca's transportation infrastructure includes the Mecca East airport (currently inactive), with King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah serving international and regional flights. Road networks, including Highways 40 and 15, connect Mecca to Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam, Medina, Tabuk, and Jordan. The city is served by four ring roads and features many tunnels. Two notable metro systems, Al Masha'er Al Muqaddassah Metro and the planned Mecca Metro, address transportation challenges, especially during the Hajj season.
In 2018, the Haramain High-Speed Rail Project introduced the Haramain high-speed railway line, connecting Mecca and Medina via Jeddah, King Abdulaziz International Airport, and King Abdullah Economic City in Rabigh. This high-speed rail, with a capacity of transporting 60 million passengers annually, significantly reduces travel time between the two holy cities to less than two hours.
As a city deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, Mecca has embraced technology to enhance the experience of pilgrims and residents alike. One notable aspect is the integration of technology in managing the annual Hajj pilgrimage, one of the largest religious gatherings globally.
Mecca has leveraged advancements in telecommunications and broadcasting to facilitate the organization and coordination of the Hajj pilgrimage. Modern communication infrastructure, including telephone, telex, radio, and television networks, has played a crucial role in directing pilgrims and addressing their needs during this massive event. The use of technology has become especially important during the Hajj season, with radio broadcasts and other communication channels aiding in the smooth flow of information to the millions of participants.
In recent years, Mecca has witnessed developments in transportation technology, aimed at improving connectivity and accessibility. The introduction of the Al Masha'er Al Muqaddassah Metro in 2010 provides an elevated metro system dedicated to transporting pilgrims to key holy sites, including 'Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Mina. This initiative helps reduce congestion on roads during the Hajj season and enhances the overall transportation infrastructure of the city.
The planned Mecca Metro, officially known as Makkah Mass Rail Transit, represents a forward-looking investment in public transportation. This four-line metro system, in addition to the existing Al Masha'er Al Muqaddassah Metro, demonstrates Mecca's commitment to modernizing its transportation network to accommodate the growing population and the influx of pilgrims.
Furthermore, the Haramain High-Speed Rail Project, inaugurated in 2018, introduced high-speed intercity rail connecting Mecca with Medina. This project exemplifies the incorporation of cutting-edge technology to enhance travel efficiency, with trains capable of speeds up to 300 km/h, significantly reducing travel time between the two holy cities.
In the realm of communication and media, Mecca has its own local newspapers, including Al Nadwa, and receives other Saudi newspapers such as the Saudi Gazette, Al Madinah, Okaz, and Al Bilad. The city also benefits from various television stations, providing both local and international news and entertainment.
While Mecca's primary focus remains on religious and cultural aspects, the integration of modern technology reflects a strategic approach to enhancing the city's infrastructure and services. The use of technology in Mecca is not only instrumental in managing the annual pilgrimage but also contributes to the overall development and efficiency of the city's various sectors. As technology continues to evolve, Mecca is likely to embrace further innovations, ensuring that it remains at the intersection of tradition and progress.
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