Snapchat's sneak peek into Mecca wins over social media

Social media has given the world a sneak peek into Mecca as millions of Muslims make their way to the holy city as part of Ramadan celebrations.

Mecca (Twitter/@MimoshAlhajri) Source: (Twitter/@MimoshAlhajri)

The city is closed to non-Muslims, but image sharing app Snapchat allowed users to take in the event as it unfolded on Monday, the Muslim holiday of Laylat Al Qadr.

Laylat al-Qadr, or Shab-e-Qadr, is believed to be the night when the Quran was first revealed and is celebrated on one of the last 10 days of the month of Ramadan.

Millions of Muslims travelled to Mecca, with Snapchat documenting the event with the hashtag #Mecca_Live.

The hashtag was soon trending on Twitter with users praising Snapchat for its innovative story.

Social media users also praised Snapchat’s role in giving many a different view of the Muslim world.

One account operating under the name Leah described Mecca as “inspiring”.

“Media made me blind to what Islam had to offer,” she said.

“#mecca_live shows how you are all 1 big family. I want to learn about more Islam.”

Ramadan will conclude this Friday, July 17.