Cloth of Kaaba (Kiswa) – The Sacred Covering of the Holy Kaaba

The Cloth of Kaaba, known as the Kiswa, is one of the most revered and visually stunning symbols in the Islamic world. Draped over the Holy Kaaba in Makkah, it represents faith, devotion, and the eternal unity of Muslims worldwide. The Kiswa’s majestic design and spiritual significance make it a masterpiece of Islamic art and an enduring emblem of the sacred traditions surrounding the House of Allah.

What Is the Cloth of the Kaaba (Kiswa)?

The Kiswa is the black silk cloth that covers the Kaaba, Islam’s holiest site located in Masjid al-Haram, Makkah. The word “Kiswa” in Arabic (كِسْوَة) means “covering” or “garment.” Every year, a new Kiswa is placed over the Kaaba on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, coinciding with the Day of Arafah during Hajj.

The old Kiswa is respectfully removed, divided, and distributed to Muslim leaders, museums, and respected Islamic institutions around the world. Each piece carries deep spiritual and historical significance, connecting believers to centuries of devotion.

The Making of the Holy Kaaba Kiswa

The creation of the Kiswa is an act of faith, artistry, and precision. It takes nearly 8 months and the effort of over 200 skilled artisans at the Kiswa Factory in Makkah, under the supervision of the Saudi General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques.

1. Luxurious Silk and Pure Craftsmanship

The Kiswa is woven from pure black silk imported from Italy. The fabric is dyed to a deep black color that symbolizes purity, humility, and devotion.

It is then decorated with gold and silver-plated thread embroidery, forming Quranic verses and Islamic calligraphy that beautifully adorn the surface.

2. Magnificent Embroidery

The embroidery is done with real gold and silver threads, creating verses such as:

“La ilaha illa Allah, Muhammadur Rasul Allah”

“Subhan Allah wa bihamdihi, Subhan Allahil Azim”

These inscriptions are not only breathtaking but also deeply spiritual, serving as a reminder of Allah’s greatness and mercy.

3. Size and Structure

The Kiswa measures approximately 14 meters in height to fit the Kaaba’s dimensions and consists of 47 individual cloth panels. The total weight exceeds 650 kilograms, including 120 kilograms of gold embroidery, showcasing the grandeur of this sacred covering.

Historical Background of the Kaaba Cloth

The tradition of covering the Kaaba dates back before Islam, but it was Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) who formalized and sanctified the ritual.

Throughout history, various Islamic dynasties — including the Umayyads, Abbasids, Mamluks, Ottomans, and the modern Saudi era — have continued this sacred tradition, each contributing to the evolution of the Kiswa’s materials and design.

• Pre-Islamic Times: The Kaaba was covered with simple fabrics, often red or green.

• Prophet Muhammad’s Era: The Kiswa was made of Yemeni cloth.

• Abbasid & Ottoman Periods: Black silk with gold inscriptions became the standard.

• Modern Era: The Makkah Kiswa Factory was established to produce the cloth locally with modern precision while maintaining ancient craftsmanship.

Design Details of the Kaaba Kiswa

The Kiswa is a masterpiece of sacred art, blending calligraphy, geometry, and spirituality.

1. The Hizam (Golden Band)

Running around the upper third of the Kaaba, the Hizam features verses from the Qur’an embroidered in gold and silver threads.

2. The Sitara (Door Curtain)

The Sitara, or curtain of the Kaaba door, is the most intricate part of the Kiswa. It bears Quranic verses and ornate decorations, surrounded by rich gold calligraphy.

3. Decorative Panels

Below the Hizam are several smaller embroidered panels bearing verses such as:

“Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyum”

“Ya Rahman Ya Rahim”

Each element reflects divine attributes and Islamic art’s deep connection to worship.

Spiritual Meaning of the Kaaba Cloth

The Cloth of Kaaba Kiswa is not merely a decorative covering; it carries profound spiritual symbolism.

• Unity: The Kiswa represents the unity of Muslims, all facing the Kaaba during prayer.

• Purity: The black silk symbolizes humility before Allah.

• Divine Protection: The embroidered verses serve as a reminder of Allah’s protection and mercy.

• Barakah (Blessing): Many Muslims believe the Kiswa radiates spiritual blessings and peace.

Owning a Piece of the Kaaba Cloth

For Muslims worldwide, owning an authentic piece of the Kaaba Kiswa is a dream come true — a chance to hold a tangible part of Islamic heritage.

These fragments, once adorning the Holy Kaaba, are now carefully preserved and certified by official Islamic authorities. Each piece is a rare collector’s item and a spiritual treasure, representing centuries of devotion.

Authentic Kiswa pieces can be found in Islamic museums, royal collections, or specialized online stores like Kiswah Islamic Store, which offers certified original Kiswa fragments with documentation.

How to Verify an Authentic Kiswa Cloth

Due to its spiritual and financial value, verifying the authenticity of a Kiswa fragment is essential.

Look for the following indicators:

• Official certificate from the Kiswa Factory in Makkah.

• Documentation specifying the year and part of the Kiswa (door panel, Hizam, border, etc.).

• Authentic gold and silver embroidery matching the Kaaba design.

• Seller reputation — always buy from recognized Islamic art dealers.

Owning a certified Kiswa piece ensures you are preserving a true part of the Kaaba’s sacred history.

Displaying and Preserving the Kiswa Cloth

Owning a Kiswa piece carries a great responsibility to maintain its sanctity and beauty.

Preservation Tips:

• Keep it framed under glass to protect it from dust and humidity.

• Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade the silk and embroidery.

• Handle it with clean hands and respect.

• Store in a cool, dry environment if not displayed.

Proper care preserves not just the fabric, but the spiritual energy and history it holds.

Where to See the Full Kiswa of the Kaaba

While millions witness the Kiswa during Hajj and Umrah, authentic historical Kiswas are also displayed in:

• The Two Holy Mosques Exhibition, Makkah

• The National Museum of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh

• Topkapi Palace Museum, Istanbul

• The British Museum, London

These exhibits allow Muslims and scholars to appreciate the divine beauty and craftsmanship of the Kaaba’s sacred covering.

Conclusion- The Eternal Symbol of Devotion

The Cloth of Kaaba Kiswa is not merely fabric — it is a living symbol of faith, unity, and devotion. Every thread and every verse embroidered on it tells a story of reverence, dedication, and divine love.

To see the Kiswa is to witness the essence of Islamic spirituality.

To own a piece of it is to hold a blessed part of the House of Allah itself.

The Kiswa continues to inspire Muslims across generations, a reminder that faith, beauty, and devotion remain at the heart of Islam.