| National Factbook |
| Flag: |
 |
| Nation Name: |
Mecca |
| Leader Name: |
Glingo |
| Currency: |
Gold Standard |
| National Animal: |
Giraffe |
| History: |
Mecca; officially Makkah al-Mukarramah, commonly shortened to Makkah) is the capital of Mecca and the holiest city according to Islam. It is 70 km (43 mi) inland from Jeddah on the Red Sea, in a narrow valley 277 m (909 ft) above sea level. Its last recorded population was 2,385,509 in 2022. Its metropolitan population in 2022 was 2.4 million. Around 44.5% of the population are Saudi citizens and around 55.5% are foreigners from other Muslim countries. Pilgrims more than triple the population number every year during the Ḥajj pilgrimage, observed in the twelfth Hijri month of Dhūl-Ḥijjah. With over 10.8 million international visitors in 2023, Mecca was one of the ten most visited cities in the world.
Mecca is generally considered "the fountainhead and cradle of Islam". Mecca is revered in Islam as the birthplace of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. The Hira cave atop the Jabal al-Nur ("Mountain of Light"), just outside the city, is where Muslims believe the Quran was first revealed to Muhammad. Visiting Mecca for the Ḥajj is an obligation upon all able Muslims. The Great Mosque of Mecca, known as the Masjid al-Haram, is home to the Ka'bah, believed by Muslims to have been built by Abraham and Ishmael. It is Islam's holiest site and the direction of prayer (qibla) for all Muslims worldwide.
Muslim rulers from in and around the region long tried to take the city and keep it in their control, and thus, much like most of the Hejaz region, the city has seen several regime changes. The city was most recently conquered in the Saudi conquest of Hejaz by Ibn Saud and his allies in 1925. Since then, Mecca has seen a tremendous expansion in size and infrastructure, with newer, modern buildings such as the Abraj Al Bait, the world's fourth-tallest building and third-largest by floor area, towering over the Great Mosque. The Saudi government has also carried out the destruction of several historical structures and archaeological sites, such as the Ajyad Fortress. However, many of the demolitions have officially been part of the continued expansion of the Masjid al-Haram at Mecca and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina and their auxiliary service facilities in order to accommodate the ever-increasing number of Muslims performing the pilgrimage (hajj). Non-Muslims are strictly prohibited from entering the city. |
| Geography |
| Continent: |
Asia |
| Land Area: |
402.34 sq. km |
| Terrain: |
Mecca, known as Makkah al-Mukarramah in Arabic, is located in the Hejaz region of western Saudi Arabia. The city is situated 70 kilometers inland from the Red Sea, nestled in a narrow valley at an elevation of 277 meters (909 feet) above sea level. This unique geographical setting has shaped the city’s terrain, climate, and development.
Topography and Landscape
Mecca’s terrain is predominantly characterized by rugged hills and mountains, which encircle the city, giving it a somewhat bowl-like shape. The surrounding mountainous region includes notable elevations such as Jabal al-Nur and Jabal Thawr. Jabal al-Nur, located just outside the city, rises to about 642 meters (2,106 feet) and is significant in Islamic history as it houses the Hira cave, where the Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation. Jabal Thawr, to the south of Mecca, is also historically important as the site of the Thawr cave, where Muhammad and his companion Abu Bakr sought refuge during their migration to Medina.
Urban and Natural Features
The city of Mecca is densely built, with urban development concentrated in the valley floor and extending into the lower slopes of the surrounding hills. The urban area is interspersed with historical and religious landmarks, most notably the Masjid al-Haram (the Great Mosque), which is centrally located and houses the Kaaba, the most sacred site in Islam. The city's expansion has led to extensive construction projects, including the towering Abraj Al Bait complex, which is one of the tallest buildings in the world and overlooks the mosque.
The terrain around Mecca is largely arid and rocky, with sparse vegetation typical of desert landscapes. The soil is generally sandy or gravelly, and the natural flora consists of hardy desert plants that can withstand the harsh climate. Wadis (dry riverbeds) are also common in the region, formed by occasional flash floods that occur during rare rainstorms. These wadis can become temporary rivers, though most of the year they remain dry.
Climate and Environmental Conditions
Mecca experiences a hot desert climate (Köppen climate classification BWh), with extremely high temperatures during the summer months, often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Winters are milder, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F). Rainfall is scarce and occurs mainly between November and January, but it is often brief and intense, leading to sudden flooding in the wadis.
The city's terrain and climate have significant implications for its infrastructure and urban planning. The steep hills and narrow valleys limit the expansion of residential and commercial areas, while the extreme heat requires buildings to be designed with cooling and ventilation in mind. Moreover, the scarcity of water necessitates efficient management and conservation practices.
Challenges and Adaptations
Over the years, Mecca has faced numerous challenges due to its terrain and climatic conditions. The city's authorities have undertaken major infrastructure projects to improve transportation and accommodate the millions of pilgrims who visit annually. This includes the construction of tunnels through the surrounding hills to ease traffic congestion and the development of extensive water supply systems to meet the demands of residents and visitors.
In conclusion, Mecca’s terrain is a complex interplay of rugged mountains, narrow valleys, and arid landscapes, deeply influencing the city's layout, climate, and infrastructure. The city's unique geographical and historical context continues to shape its development and the experience of those who live in or visit this sacred place. |
| Highest Peak: |
Jabal al-Nur, 642 meters |
| Lowest Valley: |
The lowest point is within the valley wh, 277 meters |
| Climate: |
Mecca, officially known as Makkah al-Mukarramah, experiences a hot desert climate (Köppen climate classification BWh), characterized by extremely high temperatures and minimal rainfall. The city's climate significantly influences its daily life, infrastructure, and the experience of the millions of pilgrims who visit annually for the Hajj and Umrah.
Temperature
Mecca's temperatures are among the highest in the world. The city experiences two primary seasons: a long, intensely hot summer and a short, warm winter.
Summer
The summer season extends from May to September, with temperatures frequently exceeding 40°C (104°F). July and August are the hottest months, where daytime temperatures can soar to 45°C (113°F) or higher. Nighttime offers little relief, with temperatures often remaining above 30°C (86°F). The intense heat necessitates the use of air conditioning in homes, hotels, and public buildings, and influences the timing of outdoor activities, which are often scheduled for early mornings or late evenings to avoid the peak heat.
Winter
Winter in Mecca lasts from November to February and is significantly milder but still warm by global standards. Daytime temperatures during this season range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 18°C (64°F). This period is considered the most comfortable time of year, making it a preferred season for many pilgrims and tourists.
Rainfall
Mecca receives very little rainfall, typical of desert climates. The average annual precipitation is about 110 millimeters (4.3 inches), with most of the rain falling between November and January. Rain showers are often brief and intense, leading to sudden, short-lived flooding in the city’s wadis (dry riverbeds).
Rainy Season
The rainy season, though short, brings infrequent but sometimes heavy downpours. These rains can cause flash floods due to the city’s terrain and poor water drainage infrastructure. Despite the infrequency of rain, when it does occur, it can have significant impacts on transportation and daily life, necessitating rapid drainage solutions to manage the temporary water accumulation.
Humidity
Humidity levels in Mecca vary throughout the year. During the summer, the relative humidity is generally low, exacerbating the dry heat and increasing the risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses. In contrast, the winter months can see higher humidity levels, especially when rain showers occur. However, even in winter, humidity remains relatively moderate compared to more tropical regions.
Winds
Winds in Mecca are typically light to moderate. During the summer, hot, dry winds known as "shamal" can blow from the north, bringing dust and sand into the city. These winds can reduce visibility and create challenging conditions for outdoor activities. In the winter, winds tend to be milder and more variable in direction.
Adaptations and Infrastructure
To cope with the extreme heat, Mecca’s buildings are designed with cooling and ventilation in mind. Air conditioning is ubiquitous, and many structures incorporate reflective materials and insulation to reduce heat absorption. Public spaces, including the Masjid al-Haram, are equipped with large fans and misting systems to cool the air for worshippers.
The city's infrastructure has also been adapted to manage the occasional intense rainfalls. Drainage systems have been improved to handle flash floods, and urban planning incorporates measures to mitigate the impact of sudden water accumulation.
Pilgrimage Considerations
The climate plays a crucial role in the planning and experience of the Hajj pilgrimage. The Hajj dates are determined by the Islamic lunar calendar and can fall in any season. When Hajj occurs during the summer, the extreme heat poses significant health risks to pilgrims, necessitating extensive preparations and medical support to prevent heatstroke and dehydration. The Saudi government and various organizations provide extensive water distribution, shaded areas, and medical services to ensure the safety of pilgrims.
In conclusion, Mecca’s hot desert climate, marked by extreme summer heat, mild winters, minimal rainfall, and occasional flash floods, profoundly influences the city’s infrastructure, daily life, and the experience of the millions of pilgrims who visit annually. Adaptations to the climate are evident in the city’s architecture, urban planning, and the comprehensive support systems in place for residents and visitors alike. |
| People & Society |
| Population: |
1,139 people |
| Demonym: |
Meccan |
| Demonym Plural: |
Meccans |
| Ethnic Groups: |
Arabs - 44.5%
South-Asian - 30.0%
Other Muslim expatriates - 25.5% |
| Languages: |
Arabic - 100.0%
Urdu - 0.0%
English - 0.0% |
| Religions: |
Islam - 100.0%
N/A - 0.0%
N/A - 0.0% |
| Health |
| Life Expectancy: |
75 years |
| Obesity: |
35% |
| Alcohol Users: |
0% |
| Tobacco Users: |
23% |
| Cannabis Users: |
0% |
| Hard Drug Users: |
0% |
| Economy |
| Description: |
Predominantly based on religious tourism, particularly Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, which contribute significantly to the local and national economy. The city also benefits from construction, retail, and services sectors related to the needs of pilgrims. |
| Average Yearly Income: |
$87.33 |
| Gross Domestic Product (GDP): |
$372,958,677.00 |
| GDP per Capita: |
$327,263.11 |
| Gross National Income (GNI): |
$372,696,025.00 |
| Industries: |
Religious Tourism:
The primary industry in Mecca, driven by the annual Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. Millions of Muslims visit the city each year, contributing significantly to the local economy through accommodation, transportation, food services, and retail.
Hospitality:
Hotels, hostels, and other lodging facilities cater to the vast number of pilgrims. Major hotel chains have a significant presence in the city, offering a wide range of accommodations from luxury to budget options.
Construction:
Continuous infrastructure development and expansion projects, including hotels, shopping centers, roads, and the expansion of the Masjid al-Haram. This sector employs a large number of workers and is crucial for supporting the increasing number of visitors.
Retail:
Numerous shops, markets, and malls that sell a variety of goods, including religious items, souvenirs, clothing, and electronics. The retail sector thrives on the influx of pilgrims and tourists.
Transportation:
Services include air travel (King Abdulaziz International Airport in nearby Jeddah), buses, taxis, and the Mecca Metro. These services are essential for transporting millions of pilgrims and residents.
Food and Beverage:
Restaurants, cafes, and food stalls providing diverse cuisines to cater to international visitors. This sector also includes the supply chain for food and beverages needed by residents and visitors alike.
Health Services:
Hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies offering medical services to residents and pilgrims. During peak pilgrimage seasons, additional medical facilities and temporary clinics are set up to handle the increased demand.
Textiles and Clothing:
Production and sale of traditional Islamic clothing, prayer rugs, and other related items. Many businesses focus on the specific needs of pilgrims.
Banking and Financial Services:
Banks and financial institutions providing currency exchange, remittance services, and other financial products to residents and international visitors.
Education and Religious Studies:
Institutions offering education in Islamic studies, including universities, religious schools (madrasas), and institutes focusing on Islamic theology and jurisprudence.
These industries collectively support the economy of Mecca and are vital in accommodating and servicing the millions of visitors that the city receives annually. |
| Military |
| History: |
Meccan Armed Forces:
The Meccan Armed Forces are responsible for the defense and security of the country. The armed forces consist of two main branches:
Loyal Meccan Land Forces: Responsible for ground operations and defense.
Loyal Meccan Air Force: Manages aerial operations and defense.
National Guard:
The Meccan National Guard operates alongside the armed forces and is responsible for internal security and protecting critical infrastructure. They also play a role in emergency response and disaster management.
Special Forces:
Mecca has various special operations forces, including the Special Security Forces and Special Emergency Forces. These units are trained for counter-terrorism operations and protecting key installations.
Military Presence in Mecca:
Mecca does not have a permanent military presence within the city itself due to its religious significance and the prohibition of non-Muslims from entering. However, security forces may be deployed during special events, such as the Hajj pilgrimage, to ensure public safety and manage crowds.
Role During Hajj:
During the annual Hajj pilgrimage, security forces play a crucial role in maintaining order, managing crowds, and ensuring the safety of pilgrims. They work alongside civil authorities and religious officials to coordinate logistics and provide emergency services if needed.
Military Infrastructure:
Mecca may have military infrastructure in surrounding areas, including bases, training facilities, and logistical support centers to support operations in the region.
Overall, while Mecca itself is primarily focused on religious tourism and related industries, the Saudi Arabian military and security forces play a critical role in ensuring the safety and security of the city and its visitors, particularly during major events like the Hajj pilgrimage. |
| Soldiers: |
0 |
| Tanks: |
0 |
| Aircraft: |
0 |
| Ships: |
0 |
| Missiles: |
0 |
| Nuclear Weapons: |
0 |
| Last Updated: 06/28/2024 09:55 pm |
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