Historical markets in Mecca…an urban memory and a renewed identity

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Historical markets in Mecca…an urban memory and a renewed identity

Embody Historical marketsIn Mecca, a vibrant urban memory, formed over long centuries of interaction between caravans, pilgrims, and merchants, and contributed to consolidating the position of the Holy City as a global religious and commercial center.

These markets were not just spaces for buying and selling, but rather formed social and cultural platforms that shaped patterns of living and the local economy, and they continue to play a renewed role within the development system, in line with the goals of the Kingdom’s vision. 2030 in diversifying the economy and enhancing the quality of life.

Historical Markets

Throughout its ancient history, Mecca has known markets linked to its geographical locations and its proximity to the Grand Mosque and caravan routes, as the Night Market is considered one of the oldest of them, maintaining its commercial presence until today, and was famous for the diversity of its offerings and its service to visitors coming to the central region. Suwayqa Market also emerged with its popular character, and has continued to be a destination for those searching for traditional goods and products. Local.

And extended Historical commercial activity includes markets that served the southern and western sides of the city, including Al-Masfalah Market, which was associated with serving pilgrims coming from the south, and Ajyad Market, which witnessed active seasonal activity related to Hajj and Umrah, before its features changed within modern development projects.

Early international commercial character

Other markets were known in the northern and eastern neighborhoods, such as Al-Ma’ala Market and Al-Hajoun Market, in addition to local markets, including Jarul Market and Al-Zahir Market, in addition to Al-Shubaika Market. Close to the Grand Mosque.

Researchers in the history of Mecca confirm that the historical markets formed human forums that brought together multiple cultures, and contributed to the exchange of goods and customs, which gave Mecca an early international commercial character and a pivotal role in supporting families by providing earning opportunities and transferring crafts and knowledge between generations.

Estimations indicate that between 30 and 35% of visitors to Mecca are keen to visit the markets. Historical and popular markets, while the average spending ranges between 250 and 400 riyals during one visit. These markets also include hundreds of shops, provide direct and indirect job opportunities, and support small and medium enterprises and craftsmen, especially in the fields of handicrafts, perfumes and traditional food products. These efforts, along with projects to develop the central area and improve the pedestrian environment, will reflect positively on the experience of those visiting the Grand Mosque and the residents of Mecca.

Specialists in economic and heritage affairs believe that reviving the historical markets in a modern manner that preserves the spirit of the place represents a successful model of sustainable development, combining preservation of spatial memory, stimulating commercial activity, promoting cultural tourism, and achieving balanced economic and social returns.

These efforts confirm that the historical markets of Mecca are not a legacy of the past. Not only is it an active element in the present and future of Mecca, through a thriving economy and a deep-rooted urban identity that reflects the depth of history and the glow of the present.