Where is Mecca, Saudi Arab?

About Mecca

Mecca, also known as Makkah in Arabic and Bakkah in ancient times, is a city in western Saudi Arabia that is situated inland from the Red Sea coast in the Ṣirat Mountains. Mecca is the most sacred city in Islam and the capital city of Saudi Arabia's Mecca Province. Mecca is located in the Hejaz region, a strip of mountains 200 km broad that divides the Nafud desert from the Red Sea. Mecca, which is situated at an elevation of 277 m (909 feet) above sea level at latitudes of 21º23' north and 39º51' east, is one of the lowest cities in the Hejaz region in terms of elevation. The modern Mecca covers an area of over 1,200 km2 (460 sq mi)

Islam is often seen as having its origins in Mecca. Most people agree that Mecca is "the fountainhead and cradle of Islam." Islam honors Mecca as the birthplace of its prophet Muhammad. Muslims believe Prophet Muhammad received the Quran for the first time in the Hira cave on top of Jabal al-Nur, also known as the "Mountain of Light," just outside the city. At least once in their lives, every committed and capable Muslim attempts to do the hajj (pilgrimage) to Mecca. Only Muslims are permitted entry into the city due to its religious nature.

Mecca city underwent substantial renovations in the 20th and 21st centuries. The space around the holy sites was cleared, the mosque was increased, living conditions and hygienic conditions were improved, and transportation options were improved. Mecca can accommodate the growing number of pilgrims, or hajjis, as a result.

Mecca has a high population density. The majority of people live in the old city, while the densities in the city's modern residential areas are the lowest. During the month of pilgrimage, the city is overrun with one to two million worshippers from all over Saudi Arabia and other Muslim countries.

Mecca Facts