The annual ceremonial replacement of the Kiswa—the sacred cloth covering the Kaaba—is set to take place today after Asr prayer at Masjid al-Haram, marking the beginning of the Islamic New Year on the 1st of Muharram.
This revered event, one of the holiest traditions in Islam, garners deep respect and attention from Muslims across the globe. The ceremony reflects both spiritual devotion and centuries-old tradition rooted in Islamic heritage.
Final preparations have been completed, with over 200 skilled artisans overseeing the process of carefully replacing the Kiswa. The new covering was produced at the dedicated Kiswa Factory over 11 months of continuous, meticulous craftsmanship.
Weighing approximately 1,415 kilograms, the new Kiswa includes 1,000 kilograms of pure silk. It is richly adorned with Quranic verses embroidered using 120 kilograms of gold thread and 100 kilograms of silver, adding extraordinary artistic and spiritual depth.
The Kiswa consists of four large panels and 47 medium and smaller pieces, each reflecting the exceptional skill and care invested in its creation.
Beyond its religious importance, the ceremony is a profound symbol of unity, reverence, and devotion—conveying a spiritual message of solidarity to Muslims around the world as they usher in the new year.
