What is the significance of Mecca to the Islamic world?

Allah made Mecca a place of return for the people and a sanctuary, a secure sacred precinct, where pilgrims and scholars gather to perform their rituals with comfort and peace of mind, hoping for Allah's reward and fearing His punishment. Muslims get to know each other, advise one another, and consult on matters of their religion and worldly affairs, and prayer and good deeds are multiplied for them therein.