The kiswa (also known as the gilaaf) or black cloth that enrobes the Ka’abah was changed earlier this morning. According to Mufti AK during the days of Jaahiliya (ignorance) the kiswa used to be changed on the day of Ashura which was the 10th day of Muharram. The annual changing of the kiswa now occurs during the 9th of Zul Hijjah as the hujaj head to Arafat.

The kiswa is comprised of 5 parts one for each wall and a fifth piece for the door. As they replace the covering on the house of Allah they always ensure that the Ka’abah is not completely uncovered, one or two pieces of cloth will always remain on the Ka’abah as a sign of respect.

The kiswa is estimated to cost 20million riyals to produce. The ornate embroidery of verses of the Holy Quran is done by hand using 150kg of pure gold and silver.
The old kiswa is removed, cut into small pieces and gifted to certain individuals, visiting Muslim dignitaries and organizations.

Safeera Kaka
Cii Hajj Nerve Centre