Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 To Showcase Full Kiswah Of Holy Kaaba In Jeddah

The Diriyah Biennale Foundation has announced that the Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 will feature the first-ever exhibition of the entire Kiswah of the Holy Kaaba outside Makkah. This event, titled "And All That Is In Between," is scheduled from January 25 to May 25 at the Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. The display coincides with the centenary of the Kiswah Factory's establishment in Saudi Arabia.

The Kiswah, a cloth covering the Holy Kaaba, is crafted annually. The one displayed at this event adorned the Kaaba last year. Its intricate designs and inscriptions represent a pinnacle of Islamic artistic expression. The Diriyah Biennale Foundation aims to educate visitors about this significant artifact's history and craftsmanship, highlighting its importance to Muslims worldwide.

Visitors will have a chance to appreciate the Kiswah's detailed weaving and embroidery, which includes silk, gold, and silver threads. Alongside it, historical Islamic artifacts and contemporary artworks will be showcased. This exhibition seeks to inspire reflection on Islamic civilization's richness and creativity, building on the success of the 2023 inaugural event that attracted over 600,000 visitors.

The foundation expressed its goal to enhance pride in Islamic cultural heritage through this exhibition. It offers an exceptional opportunity for public engagement with a vital aspect of Islamic art. The event underscores Saudi Arabia's pivotal role in serving Islam and Muslims while showcasing the craftsmanship of the Kiswah Factory.

Saudi Arabia's Role and Vision

This presentation aligns with Saudi Arabia’s custodianship of Islam’s holy sites and Vision 2030 objectives. These include enriching pilgrims' religious experiences and preserving Islamic heritage. After the biennale concludes in May, the Kiswah will return to its home at the King Abdulaziz Complex.

The exhibition not only highlights Saudi Arabia’s dedication to its religious duties but also emphasizes its commitment to cultural preservation. By displaying such significant artifacts, it reinforces Saudi Arabia’s central role in promoting Islamic arts globally.

With inputs from SPA