Saudi Arabia is a significant center for the global Muslim population, with the cities of Mecca and Medina being two of the most important religious sites in Islam. The country's population of approximately 36.5 million people is overwhelmingly Muslim, and the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca draws millions of Muslims from around the world each year. The country has experienced significant population growth over the past few decades, with an annual growth rate of approximately 1.3%. The population is concentrated in urban areas, with the largest city being Riyadh. As the birthplace of Islam, Saudi Arabia is a significant cultural and religious center, and the country's population has a strong connection to their faith and religious practices.