MAKKAH — On the eve of the Islamic New Year, preparations have begun to replace the Kiswa (cover) of the Holy Kaaba. Islam’s holiest shrine will be adorned with the new Kiswa on Tuesday morning, the first day of Muharram, 1448 AH.
The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, represented by the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Holy Kaaba Kiswa, has started on Monday night the process of replacing the Kiswa such as removing the gold-embroidered ornaments, decorative elements, lamps, and other embellishments attached to the Kiswa, as well as lowering the curtain of the Kaaba’s door, in accordance with the annual customary tradition associated with the Holy Kaaba.
The new Kiswa is being transported from the complex to the Grand Mosque through an integrated operational system that adheres to the highest international standards. A specialized Saudi team, comprising skilled craftsmen, is overseeing the replacement process, which includes raising the old Kiswa, removing the gold-embroidered components, and installing the new covering.
The production of the Kiswa relies on premium raw materials, including 825 kilograms of natural silk, 47 rolls of black silk for the outer covering, 400 kilograms of raw cotton for the inner lining, 60 kilograms of pure silver for embroidery, and 120 kilograms of gold-plated silver used in embroidering Qur’anic verses and decorative motifs.
These materials undergo rigorous testing in the complex’s laboratories to ensure compliance with the highest quality standards and durability under varying climatic conditions. During the printing stage, Quranic verses and Islamic motifs are transferred onto the fabric in preparation for embroidery. The verses and motifs are then embroidered with gold and silver threads using highly precise techniques that reflect the advanced level of Saudi craftsmanship.
Hand weaving continues to be used for specialized pieces and decorative elements that require exceptional skill and precision. Saudi craftsmen contribute to preserving the artistic and heritage character that has distinguished the Kiswa throughout its long history. Following completion of the manufacturing stages, the embroidered pieces are assembled to form the complete Kiswa, ready for installation on the Holy Kaaba. The process is carried out under a comprehensive operational framework supervised by experienced specialists and technicians.
The seven stages of production—dyeing, machine weaving, laboratory testing, printing, embroidery, hand weaving, and assembly—reflect an integrated system of quality and craftsmanship. Premium materials are combined with meticulous workmanship to produce a final masterpiece befitting the status of the Holy Kaaba and the sanctity of the Grand Mosque.
Through these efforts, Saudi Arabia continues to advance the production of the Kiswa by utilizing national expertise and modern technologies, ensuring the preservation of this important Islamic heritage. For a century, the annual replacement of the Kiswa has stood as a symbol of the Kingdom’s commitment to serving the Two Holy Mosques and renewing the covering of the Holy Kaaba each year.
Source: Saudi Gazette