Saudi Arabia Commences Annual Replacement Of Holy Kaaba’s Kiswa

Saudi Arabia has begun preparations for the annual replacement of the Holy Kaaba’s Kiswa, the black silk cloth that covers Islam’s holiest site in Makkah. The longstanding tradition reflects the Kingdom’s enduring commitment to serving and preserving the sanctity of the Two Holy Mosques.

The replacement process is being overseen by the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque through the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Holy Kaaba Kiswa. Preparatory work includes r  emoving the gold-embroidered decorations, ornamental elements, lamps, and other accessories attached to the existing Kiswa, as well as lowering the curtain that covers the Kaaba’s door.

According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the new Kiswa is being transported from the King Abdulaziz Complex to the Grand Mosque under a carefully coordinated operational plan that adheres to international standards. A specialized team of Saudi experts is managing every stage of the process, from removing the current covering to installing the new one.

The new Kiswa is crafted using premium materials, including 825 kilograms of natural silk, 47 rolls of black silk for the exterior covering, and 400 kilograms of raw cotton for the inner lining. Its intricate Quranic inscriptions and decorative motifs are embroidered using 60 kilograms of pure silver and 120 kilograms of gold-plated silver.

Before production begins, all materials undergo extensive laboratory testing to ensure they meet stringent quality requirements and can withstand varying weather conditions. Quranic verses and Islamic patterns are first printed onto the fabric before being meticulously embroidered with gold and silver threads using advanced manufacturing techniques.

Saudi artisans remain at the heart of the process, preserving the heritage and craftsmanship associated with the Kiswa. Traditional hand weaving continues to play a key role in producing specialized decorative elements that demand exceptional precision and skill.

After the completion of dyeing, weaving, testing, printing, embroidery, hand weaving, and assembly, the various components are carefully combined to create the finished Kiswa, ready for installation on the Holy Kaaba.

The seven-stage production process represents a seamless blend of traditional artistry and modern technology, ensuring the Kiswa remains a masterpiece worthy of the sacred status of the Holy Kaaba and the Grand Mosque.

For more than a century, the annual replacement of the Kiswa has stood as a powerful symbol of Saudi Arabia’s dedication to preserving Islamic heritage and caring for the Two Holy Mosques. By combining local expertise with advanced technologies, the Kingdom continues to uphold one of Islam’s most revered traditions.