Saudi Arabia Completes Annual Replacement of Holy Kaaba’s Kiswa

Mecca, June 26 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has completed the annual replacement of the Kiswa of the Holy Kaaba, continuing a tradition of meticulous care that dates back over a century.

The replacement was carried out by a specialized team of 154 Saudi professionals from the King Abdulaziz Complex for Holy Kaaba Kiswa. Team members were assigned specific roles across the sides and roof of the Kaaba according to their expertise. The process began with the careful removal of the old Kiswa and the gradual installation of the new covering, which was then stitched and secured into place.

The new Kiswa, standing 14 meters high and weighing approximately 1,415 kilograms, comprises four individually crafted panels and the ceremonial door curtain, known as the sitara. Each panel was raised over the previous one and lowered into place while the old Kiswa was simultaneously removed. Once all four sides were replaced, the decorative hizam band was aligned and stitched across the Kaaba’s perimeter.

The sitara, measuring 3.30 meters in width and 6.35 meters in length, required precise stitching both inside and out to ensure stability. Openings were created in the fabric to properly fit and secure the curtain.

According to the Authority, the production of the Kiswa required approximately 825 kilograms of black-dyed raw silk, 120 kilograms of gold-plated silver thread, 60 kilograms of pure silver thread, and 410 kilograms of raw cotton.

The annual replacement of the Kiswa remains one of the most sacred rituals performed in the Kingdom, reflecting both the technical excellence and spiritual reverence associated with the care of Islam’s holiest site.