[PHOTOS] Hijrah 1447: Sacred Ceremony of Kaabah’s New Cover Unfolds in Mecca

In a moving spiritual tradition marking the arrival of the Islamic New Year 1447 AH, the annual replacement of the Kiswa—the revered black cloth that drapes the Holy Kaabah—began on Wednesday evening at the Grand Mosque in Mecca.

The esteemed King Abdulaziz Complex for the Holy Kaabah Kiswa, under the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, supervised this intricate process, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to preserving Islamic heritage.

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According to Inside Haramain, the official platform for updates from the two holy mosques, the newly crafted Kiswa was formally handed over on June 8 by Deputy Emir of Makkah, Prince Saud bin Mishaal, to Abdul Malik bin Taha Al-Shaibi, the senior guardian of the Grand Mosque. This ceremonial handover preluded the careful installation, which extended into Thursday morning, synchronizing with the first day of the new Hijri year.

Crafted from rich black silk dyed naturally, the new Kiswa glistens with gold and silver-thread embroidery, showcasing both devotional artistry and masterful precision. The replacement process began with the removal of the gilded curtain that adorns the Kaabah’s door—a monumental piece measuring 6.35 meters by 3.33 meters.

To enable a seamless transition, mosque staff removed chandeliers and decorative elements, clearing the space for the meticulous work ahead.

A dedicated team of 154 expert Saudi craftsmen—combining technical know-how with religious devotion—was entrusted with this sacred task. With care and reverence, they lifted the previous Kiswa and began attaching the new cloth, panel by panel.

The 2025 Kiswa consists of 47 individual panels of deep black silk, each elegantly embroidered with 68 verses from the Holy Qur’an, stitched using 24-karat gold-plated silver threads. The total weight of this majestic covering is estimated at 1,415 kilograms.

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To create this symbol of Islamic unity and spirituality, the team used:

• 120 kg of gold-plated silver thread

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• 60 kg of pure silver

• 825 kg of refined silk

• 410 kg of raw cotton

Additionally, 54 decorative gilded pieces were produced using eight advanced weaving machines, highlighting the blend of traditional artistry and modern craftsmanship.

This deeply revered event is more than a ritual—it is a profound expression of the Kingdom’s spiritual stewardship and its enduring reverence for Islam’s holiest site. Every thread in the new Kiswa echoes devotion, unity, and the timeless beauty of the Islamic tradition.

The renewal of the Kaabah’s covering is a powerful reminder of the spiritual journey Muslims begin with each new Hijri year—a journey of reflection, purity, and purpose.

All Photos Courtesy: Inside Haramain