MECCA – In a sacred and time-honored tradition, the new Kiswa — the black silk cloth that adorns the Holy Kaaba — was ceremonially installed early Thursday morning, marking the beginning of the Islamic New Year 1447 AH.
The ceremonial changing of the Kiswa was overseen by the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque in the early hours of 1st Muharram at the Grand Mosque in Mecca. This spiritual event symbolizes renewal, devotion, and reverence at the start of the Hijri calendar.
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The 2025 Kiswa is an exceptional example of Islamic craftsmanship. Weighing approximately 1,415 kilograms, it is composed of 47 meticulously woven pieces of black silk. The cloth is embroidered with 68 Quranic verses using silver threads plated with 24-karat gold, enhancing its majestic appearance.
The intricate process of crafting the Kiswa took nearly 11 months and was completed at the King Abdulaziz Complex for Holy Kaaba Kiswah in the Umm Al Joud district of Mecca. The removal of the old Kiswa began on Wednesday afternoon after Asr prayer on the 29th of Dhu Al Hijjah, with a dedicated team of skilled technicians managing the entire replacement process.
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“This sacred tradition not only represents the spiritual significance of the New Year but also reaffirms the Kingdom’s deep commitment to the preservation of Islamic heritage,” a spokesperson from the Presidency stated.
The annual changing of the Kiswa is a revered Islamic ritual that holds immense spiritual value for Muslims worldwide, symbolizing humility, renewal, and the sacred bond between faith and history.
