By Raziq Ali Shah
MAKKAH AL-MUKARRAMAH , May 29 (APP): The stitching of the Kaaba’s Kiswa (black cloth that covers the Holy Kaaba) — is a profound sight for Muslim believers around the world as many have a deep desire to witness the intricate process behind its preparation.
A visit to the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Holy Kaaba in Makkah offers a rare and enlightening opportunity to see firsthand the meticulous craftsmanship. Skilled workers performed duty in various departments including machine and hand embroidery, silk weaving, gold threadwork and printing.
At the complex, the visitors can explore each stage of the Kiswa’s production. The exquisite black silk cloth is prepared with devotion and artistry at the facility dedicated exclusively to this purpose.
Director General Public Relations and Media at the Complex, Ahmed bin Musaed Al-Suwyhiri gave a detailed briefing on the process of preparing Kiswa and its history to delegation of over 80 journalists from various Muslim countries including Pakistan, Turkey, Nigeria, Indonesia, Malaysia, Morocco, Libya, Syria, Egypt, Palestinian, Yemen etc.
Sharing the details, Al-Suwyhiri said that the preparation of the Kiswa takes approximately 10 months and costs 25 million Saudi Riyals, fully funded by the Saudi government.
He said the Kiswa is replaced annually on the 1st of Muharram and the moment signifies spiritual renewal and reflection for Muslims worldwide.
He said that the materials used in the Kiswa’s production include high-quality silk imported from Germany and Italy. The process requires around 1,000 kilograms of raw silk dyed black at the complex, along with 120 kilograms of gold wire and 100 kilograms of silver wire.
He went on to say that after the old Kiswa is removed, it is cut into smaller pieces and presented to visiting foreign dignitaries as well as Islamic organizations.
The visiting journalists observed each step of this sacred process—from dyeing and weaving the silk to embroidering Quranic verses with pure gold and silver threads.
The Kingdom’s commitment to the Kiswa dates back to 1927, when King Abdulaziz Al Saud established the first workshop for its production. In 1977, a new factory was inaugurated to modernize and expanded this sacred tradition. Under the reign of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the factory was renamed as the King Abdulaziz Complex and placed under the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque.
Beyond the Kiswa Complex, the delegation also visited several key religious sites including Jamarah, Muzdalifah, Mount Arafat, International Museum of the Prophet’s Biography, Makkah Clock Tower Museum, and the Museum of the Holy Kaaba.
The delegation also visited the Clock Tower Museum, which offers insights into astronomy, timekeeping, and science in relation to Islamic rituals such as prayer timings and moon sighting. Located in the iconic Abraj Al Bait complex, the museum combines scientific exploration with spiritual reverence and offers panoramic views of Makkah.
The tour concluded with a visit to the third phase of the Makkah Grand Mosque expansion that will increase capacity and enhance facilities for millions of worshippers.
The visit was organized by the Saudi Ministry of Media and the General Authority for Media Regulation, in collaboration with the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites.
The visit is a part of the Kingdom’s broader initiative to showcase major national developments, particularly those connected to Hajj and the care of the Guests of Allah, while enhancing Saudi Arabia’s image in global media.