Mecca, also spelled Makkah al Mukarramah, is a city located in the western part of Saudi Arabia, nestled in the Sirat Mountains. It is the holiest city in Islam and the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad, making it a central spiritual hub for Muslims around the globe. Every year, millions of Muslims perform the Hajj pilgrimage, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and visit Mecca, creating a unique cosmopolitan blend of cultures and languages within the city during the pilgrimage season. Arabic is the official language of Saudi Arabia and hence, it is predominantly spoken in Mecca. However, during the Hajj season, one can hear a myriad of languages from all over the Islamic world and beyond, reflecting the diversity of the pilgrims. Strictly speaking, non-Muslims are prohibited from entering the city, a rule enforced by the government to preserve its religious sanctity. Geographically, Mecca sits in a valley with sparse vegetation, primarily due to its hot desert climate. Despite the arid environment, the city has seen significant urban development, especially in accommodating a growing number of pilgrims and catering to their needs. Historically, Mecca's importance has been recognized for millennia, not only because of its religious significance but also due to its role in trade. Situated along ancient trade routes, it was a commercial hub that facilitated the exchange of goods and ideas. However, Mecca's history is most profoundly defined by its spiritual importance. The city houses the Masjid al-Haram, the largest mosque in the world, and the Kaaba, a cuboid building considered to be 'The House of Allah' and the direction towards which Muslims around the world face when performing their prayers (Qibla). Culturally, Mecca is, therefore, deeply interwoven with Islamic traditions and practices. The Hajj pilgrimage and the fasting month of Ramadan are the most prominent aspects of its cultural life. Additionally, the city bears witness to an array of Islamic architectural marvels, educational institutions, museums, and libraries that contribute to its cultural and religious landscape. Demographically, Mecca has a diverse population due to the large number of international pilgrims and workers from various countries contributing to the service industry related to religious tourism. The actual permanent residents are primarily Saudi citizens of Arab descent who follow the Sunni branch of Islam. Over the past few decades, Mecca has also seen a massive transformation in terms of infrastructure development, including the expansion of the Masjid al-Haram, construction of high-rise buildings, and the introduction of a public transportation system to accommodate the ever-increasing number of visitors. The government of Saudi Arabia has undertaken various projects to modernize the city while seeking to maintain its religious character. In recent years, technological advancements and new infrastructure have changed Mecca’s cityscape, yet its spiritual essence remains untouched, continuing to draw Muslims for both the annual Hajj pilgrimage and the Umrah, which can be performed at any time of the year.