The Holy Kaaba is the most sacred structure in Islam. It is located inside the Haram area of Makkah and holds a very special place in the hearts of Muslims all over the world. The Kaaba is covered with a pure and blessed cloth known as the Kiswa (Ghilaf-e-Kaaba). This cloth is black in color and beautifully decorated with golden Quranic verses, which makes it one of the most admired features of the Holy Kaaba. The word Kiswa comes from the Arabic language and simply means “to cover” or “to veil.” As the name suggests, this sacred cloth covers the entire structure of the Kaaba and reflects its dignity, holiness, and spiritual importance.
Many pilgrims and visitors often ask an interesting question:
Is the Ghilaf-e-Kaaba made in a factory?
The answer is very simple: Yes, the Ghilaf e Kaaba (Kiswa) is made in the Kiswa Factory.
The Kiswah Factory is located in Makkah, where skilled craftsmen prepare this sacred cloth with care and respect. It is made using high-quality silk and is hand-embroidered with gold and silver threads. The most special thing is that you can visit the Kiswa Factory yourself. Through a Kiswa Factory tour, visitors can see how the Kiswa is made with their own eyes. Watching the preparation of the Ghilaf-e-Kaaba is a spiritual and unforgettable experience for anyone visiting Makkah.
Why the Kiswa is So Special
Muslims all over the world face the Holy Kaaba while performing their prayers, which is a symbol of humility and remembrance of Allah(S.W.A). The Kiswa (Ghilaf-e-Kaaba) is not just a piece of cloth; it represents faith, devotion, and respect. The delicate embroidery on the Kiswa, made with gold and silver threads, enhances the beauty and dignity of the Kaaba. Every stitch reflects the hard work, patience, and dedication of the skilled craftsmen, and seeing this effort inspires awe in every believer.
Many pilgrims wish to see the Kiswa up close, touch it, and admire its intricate details. Before Hajj, the lower part of the Kiswa is carefully lifted by about 3 meters and covered with a white cloth to maintain its purity and sanctity.
History of Kiswa(Ghilaf-e-Kaaba) Making
In the past, the Kiswa was made in Egypt and then transported to Makkah by camel and boat. Because the journey was very long, the cloth was sometimes damaged on the way. Keeping this problem in mind, King Abdulaziz ordered in 1927 that the Kiswa should be made in Makkah instead. Alhamdulillah, today the Kiswa is completely made in Makkah. In earlier times, all the work was done by hand. Now, modern machines in the factory help with weaving and dyeing the silk. However, the Quranic verses and sacred writings are still hand-embroidered, so the traditional beauty and holiness of the Kiswa remain preserved.
Planning a Kiswa Factory Visit with AlKiswah Tours
Every Muslim has a wish to see the Kiswa Factory with their own eyes and learn how the sacred cloth of the Kaaba is made. With AlKiswah Tours, you can visit the Kiswa Factory without any worry. However, this is a very holy and restricted place, and visitors are not allowed to enter without official permission. To visit the Kiswa Factory, you must obtain prior approval and an online appointment. During your Hajj or Umrah, you can plan a visit to the Kiswah Factory, but only if your booking in advance.
That is why it is best to contact AlKiswah Tours, so we can arrange everything for you properly. We handle the Kiswa Factory visit appointment and all necessary arrangements, making your journey memorable.
What Happens to the Old Kiswa?
Ghilaf-e-Kaaba is changed every year. In the past, it was traditionally replaced on 9th Dhul Hijjah (the Day of Arafah). However, after 2022, this practice was shifted to 1st Muharram, which marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year. Now, the Kiswa is replaced every year in the month of Muharram. The old Kiswa is removed with great respect and care. After removal, it is sent to a secure location, where it is carefully cut into small pieces.
The pieces are gifted to:
- Islamic institutions
- Foreign dignitaries
- Respected religious scholars
Note:
The Kiswa is never thrown away or treated casually. In Islam, the buying and selling of the Kiswa is strictly forbidden, and it is not allowed to use it for commercial purposes.
Final Words
The Kiswa is not just a piece of cloth; it is a symbol of faith and devotion. Its significance in the hearts of Muslims is immense. This cloth does not just cover a building; it holds guidance and faith within itself.
A new Kiswa is made every year, and it is completed after months of careful work and dedication. Visiting the Kiswa Factory is a good experience. To see this sacred place, prior permission is required. If you plan your journey with AlKiswah Tours, it is our responsibility to make sure your online booking is confirmed in advance and that your visit is easy and memorable.
