There are two university-level colleges. Much economic development of Mecca was made possible in the 20th century by the Saudi Arabian petroleum-based economy. The surrounding areas of the Great Mosque were cleared, sanitation and housing improved, and streets widened and underground walkways constructed for better movement of traffic. Since World War II many areas have been renovated and Mecca transformed into a modern city. It hosts the world's major Islamic conferences.
Mecca is served by the seaport of Jiddah and Jiddah's international airport.
A well-developed transport network carries people to religious places. Pilgrims pay large sums as pilgrimage taxes, and in return authorities see to it that there are food and water, security, and hygiene. Mecca centers on al-Haram, or the Great Mosque, and the sacred well of Zamzam. Egyptian Muslims traditionally bring the kiswa, or black brocade veil, for the sacred Kaaba. History Mecca was first mentioned by the geographer Ptolemy in the 2nd century AD as Macoraba.