Annual Ceremony To Replace Kiswa Of Holy Kaaba Marks Over 100 Years Of Tradition

The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has commenced the annual tradition of replacing the Kiswa of the Holy Kaaba. This ceremony, held at the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Holy Kaaba Kiswa, has been a significant event for over a century. The process began with removing the gilded curtain from the Kaaba door, which is 6.35 metres long and 3.33 metres wide.

A team of 154 skilled Saudi craftsmen is responsible for this intricate task. They are scientifically and practically qualified to handle every aspect of the Kiswa replacement. Their work involves raising the old Kiswa, detaching its gilded elements, and installing a new one. The new Kiswa consists of 47 black silk panels embroidered with 68 Quranic verses using 24-karat gold-plated silver threads.

The entire Kiswa weighs about 1,415 kilograms. Its creation required 120 kilograms of gold-plated silver thread, 60 kilograms of pure silver, 825 kilograms of silk, and 410 kilograms of raw cotton. Additionally, eight specialized weaving machines within the complex produced 54 gilded pieces.

The new Kiswa is currently being transported to the Grand Mosque with comprehensive logistical support that adheres to global standards. This meticulous operation highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to maintaining Islam’s holiest sites with utmost care and reverence.

The ceremony underscores Saudi Arabia's dedication to preserving spiritual heritage. The renewal of the Kaaba's Kiswa is a majestic symbol of reverence and care that has been upheld by Saudi Arabia for over a century.

With inputs from SPA