Mecca from the last 1,500 years have survived Saudi rule. Expansion of the city is ongoing and includes the construction of tall Abraj Al Bait Towers across the street from the Masjid al-Haram. The towers were the third tallest building in the world when completed in 2012. The construction of the towers involved the demolition of the Ajyad Fortress, which in turn sparked a dispute between Turkey and Saudi Arabia. The Zamzam Well is home to a celebrated water spring. The Qishla of Mecca was an Ottoman castle facing the Grand Mosque and defending the city from attack. However, the Saudi
Mecca Gate Mecca Gate The Gate of Mecca, Mecca Gate or Makkah Gate ( '), also known as Qur'an Gate ( '), is an arch gateway monumental on the Makkah al-Mukkarramah road of the Jeddah–Makkah Highway. It is the entrance to Mecca and the birthplace of prophet Muhammad – signifies the boundary of the "haram" area of the city of Mecca, where non-Muslims are prohibited to enter. The Gate was built in 1979. Design was done by Dia Aziz Dia, and architect was Samir Elabd. Mecca Mayor, Osama bin Fadl al-Bar, acts as Bawabat Makkah Co. Board of Directors Chairman. Complex Bawabat