Kiswah of the Kaaba – Sacred Cloth Covering in Mecca
The Kiswah is the majestic black brocade cloth that covers the Holy Kaaba in Mecca, Islam’s most revered site.
Millions of Muslims see its majesty every year during Hajj, but few know the rich history, craftsmanship, and rituals that lie behind it.
This article looks at everything — from its pre-Islamic origins to the modern-day manufacturing process so that you can walk away with a profound appreciation for this Islamic masterpiece.
What Is the Kiswah?
Meaning and Significance of the Kiswah
The term “Kiswah” (Arabic: كسوة) means “robe” or “garment,” representing honor and holiness. In Islamic worship, it acts as a bodily covering of the Kaaba.
- Maqam Ibrahim – The Station of Prophet Ibrahim (AS)
- Mecca Mataf Expansion: Tawaf Around the Kaaba at Masjid al-Haram
- Masjid al-Haram – The Sacred Mosque of Mecca
Role in Islamic Art and Worship
The Kiswah is not merely fabric — it’s a sacred artifact, a confluence of calligraphy, embroidery, and textile artistry.
With its Quranic verses embroidered in gold and silver, it is one of the most venerated works of Islamic art.
Connection to the Hajj and the Holy Mosque
The Kiswah has a pivotal role during Hajj.
Pilgrims congregate around and touch the Kaaba, praying near its spun embroidered bands, emphasizing spiritual unification.
The Historical Evolution of the Kiswah
Pre-Islamic Traditions of Covering the Kaaba
Yemeni kings such as Tubba Abu Karib also draped the Kaaba in striped Yemeni cloth long before Islam.
The Quraysh tribe later financed its upkeep, establishing an early tradition.
The Prophet Muhammad’s Contributions to the Kiswah
When the Prophet (PBUH) conquered Mecca, he replaced the previous cover with a broad white Qubati linen from Egypt, signifying the influence of Islam.
Umayyad and Abbasid Influence on the Kiswah Design
Silk and striped wool came with the Umayyads, and replacements were standardized on an annual basis by the Abbasids to avoid damaging the structure caused by layers of cloth.
The Mahmal Procession and Ritual Journey to Mecca
The Kiswah was brought from Egypt to Mecca on a ceremonial Mahmal (decorated camel litter), a tradition that dates back to the 12th century.
Kiswah Replacement Ceremony During Hajj
When and Why the Kiswah Is Replaced
On the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah (Arafat Day), the old one is replaced with the new Kiswah, just in time for Eid Al-Adha.
Kiswah Ceremony on 9th Dhu al-Hijjah
A royal delegation has the ritual in hand and hoists the lower section to keep it from wear.
Involvement of Women in Kiswah Ceremonies (2024 Update)
For the first time in 2024, women from the General Authority for the Two Holy Mosques joined the procession.
Significance of the Kiswah in Eid Al-Adha Preparations
The new Kiswah reflects renewal to be in harmony with the spiritual peak of the Hajj pilgrimage.
Where and How the Kiswah Is Made
The King Abdul Aziz Complex for the Kaaba Kiswah
This factory in Mecca makes the Kiswah using 670kg of silk and gold–coated threads.
Silk Preparation and Dyeing Process
Raw silk is dyed black, laundered, and tested for durability against Mecca’s extreme climate.
Use of Jacquard Machines for Weaving Quranic Verses
Advanced Jacquard looms weave Shahada inscriptions directly into the fabric.
Embroidery of Gold and Silver Threads by Skilled Artisans
The Hizam (belt) and Sitara (door curtain) are embroidered with hand-stitched Thuluth calligraphy.
Quality Testing and Silk Thread Standards
Every thread is stress-tested for durability.
Parts of the Kiswah and Their Islamic Meanings
The Hizam – Quranic Band Embroidered in Gold
A 47-meter-long gold–embroidered belt with Surah Ikhlas.
The Sitara (Burqu’) – Door Curtain of the Kaaba
the most decorative part shown in silver–threaded calligraphy, is the name of Allah.
Other Textiles: Bab al-Tawba Curtain & Key Bag
The Kaaba’s key is inside a green silk bag, a custom since 1987.
Significance of Thuluth Calligraphy in Decoration
This elegant Arabic script ensures legibility from a distance.
Kiswah Color Change History and Symbolism
Evolution from Red, White, and Green to Black Brocade
In the beginning, they were made of Yemeni striped cloth and later of Egyptian white linen and then black Abbasid cloth.
Why Black Became the Permanent Color
Durability and solemnity made black the ground choice since the 13th century.
Influence of Financial and Cultural Factors Over Time
Influence of Financial and Cultural Factors Over Time
Silk and gold embroidery was lavish and only for royal patronage.
The Journey of the Kiswah to Mecca
Historic Procession of the Kiswah from Egypt
For centuries, Egyptian caravans brought the Kiswah with flailing drums and flag-waving.
Introduction of the Mahmal and Ritual Flags
The Mahmal epitomized power, traveling with the Kiswah until 1962 when production shifted to Saudi Arabia.
Arrival and Draping of the Kiswah on the Kaaba
Workers carefully lift the new Kiswah above the Kaaba and attach it with ropes.
Preservation and Distribution of the Old Kiswah
Cutting the Old Kiswah into Relics for Pilgrims
Pieces are offered as blessed souvenirs, thought to hold barakah (divine blessings).
Donations to Dignitaries, Museums, and Religious Sites
Others are kept in the UN, Islamic museums, and royal collections.
UN Exhibit of the Kaaba Door Curtain Kiswah
In 1983, Saudi Arabia donated a Kiswah fragment to the United Nations, showcasing Islamic artistry.
Fun Facts and Modern Developments About the Kiswah
- 670kg of silk is used annually, worth 22 million SAR.
- 2025’s Islamic Arts Biennale will display a full Kiswah for the first time outside Mecca.
- The green inner lining matches the Prophet’s Mosque’s decor.
FAQs About the Kiswah of the Kaaba
How often is the Kiswah replaced?
Once a year, on the Day of Tarwiyyah (the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah).
Why is the Kiswah raised during Hajj?
To protect it from damage from pilgrims touching it.
Can pilgrims take a piece of the Kiswah?
No, but authorities circulate old scraps.
What is written on the Kiswah?
Thuluth script Quranic verses Shahada and Surah Ikhlas.
Who makes the Kiswah today?
The King Abdul Aziz Complex, in Mecca.
Has the Kiswah always been black?
No, it was white, red, and green before black.
How long does it take to make the Kiswah?
8–12 months, indexed to hand-embroidery.
What happens to the old Kiswah?
It’s sliced into portions for dignitaries and museums.
Why is gold used in embroidery?
Because of their strength and heavenly symbolism.
Are women involved in Kiswah production?
Yes, since 2024, women have assisted in ceremonial duties.
Farrukh Farooqi has been living in Sharaya, Makkah, Saudi Arabia since 2010. With over 14 years of firsthand experience witnessing the sacred journey of millions of pilgrims, Farrukh specializes in providing practical, insider tips for Hajj and Umrah travelers. His work blends real-world observations, the latest Saudi updates, and essential crowd management strategies — helping pilgrims and worshippers plan smarter, stay safer, and experience a spiritually fulfilling journey across the Holy Cities.
