Why was mecca a trade center for the arabian peninsula

In the 5th Century, Mecca was ruled by the Quraysh.  They were good merchants and traders who later took part in the spice trade.  Later on, Mecca as a trading center outshined the cities of Petra and Palmyra.  Based on historical records, there have been some clues that there were other products that were brought to Meeca and the Far East that traveled through Syria.  Camel caravan that have been used by Muhammad’s grandfather also added to the growth of Mecca’s economy.  Merchants also made alliances with nomadic tribes who traded leather, livestock and metals that were taken from mountains.  In the past, the City also signed treaties with the Byzantines and Bedouins and discussed safe passage by granting them water and pasture rights.