The Price of Progress: Transforming Islam’s Holiest Site

Mecca, birthplace of the Prophet Mohammed and Islam, is the destination for millions who arrive from every corner of the world for the religion’s annual pilgrimage, the hajj, required once of every fit worshipper. Steeped in history, the city has now become a target for tourism development, including malls, hotels with speakers that broadcast public prayers, fast-food restaurants and amusement parks. “Mecca is becoming like Las Vegas,” grumbles one critic in this “New York Times” article, and a researcher from London has started the Islamic Heritage Foundation to prevent destruction of religious and historical sites. Developers argue that new amenities allow more pilgrims to visit the holy city, but the most devout Muslims may not agree that commercialism goes hand in hand with spirituality. – YaleGlobal