Night Earth

Makkah, Mecca, Saudi Arabia

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Haram Shareed
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Makkah, also known as Mecca, is a city located in the western region of Saudi Arabia. It is considered the holiest city in Islam, and every year millions of Muslims from around the world gather here to perform the Hajj pilgrimage. The city is home to several historical and religious landmarks, including the Great Mosque of Mecca, the Kaaba, and the Jabal al-Nour mountain.

One of the most striking features of Makkah at night is the bright lights that illuminate the city. The city's night lights are a result of its rapid urbanization and the growing number of pilgrims that visit the city each year. The city has an estimated population of over 2 million people, and during the Hajj season, this number can increase to over 6 million people. The city's inhabitants are mainly Muslims, and their customs and habits are deeply influenced by Islamic traditions.

The primary source of light pollution in Makkah is the Great Mosque of Mecca, which is illuminated by over 5,000 LED lights. These lights are so bright that they can be seen from space, and they have been known to disrupt the natural migration patterns of birds. In addition to the Great Mosque, several other landmarks in the city are illuminated at night, including the Abraj Al Bait Towers, which are among the tallest buildings in the world.

The city's growing urbanization and development have also contributed to its light pollution. The construction of new buildings, roads, and infrastructure has resulted in the increased use of artificial lighting, which has had a significant impact on the night sky. The use of LED lights has become increasingly common in Makkah, as they are more energy-efficient and long-lasting than traditional lighting sources. However, their intense brightness has led to a significant increase in light pollution in the city.

Despite the city's rapid growth and urbanization, efforts are being made to reduce light pollution in Makkah. In 2018, the Saudi government launched the "Green Light" initiative, which aimed to reduce energy consumption and promote sustainable development in the city. The initiative included the installation of energy-efficient LED lights in public areas and the implementation of lighting regulations to minimize light pollution.

Makkah is a vibrant and dynamic city with a rich cultural and religious heritage. Its night lights are a result of its rapid urbanization and the growing number of pilgrims that visit the city each year. The Great Mosque of Mecca and other landmarks are illuminated at night, contributing to the city's light pollution. Efforts are being made to reduce light pollution in the city, but more work is needed to ensure that the night sky remains visible for generations to come.