The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque conducted the annual ceremony to replace the Kiswah of the Holy Kaaba in Makkah.
This ritual replacement of the black silk covering is a central event for the Islamic world, symbolizing the renewal and sanctity of the site. The ceremony ensures the preservation of the Kaaba's appearance for millions of pilgrims visiting the Grand Mosque.
The 2026 event coincides with the start of the Hijri year 1448 AH [1]. During the proceedings, the Deputy Governor of Makkah, Prince Saud bin Mishal, handed over the new Kiswah to the chief key holder of the Kaaba [2]. This process occurs under the authority of King Salman bin Abdulaziz, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques [1].
The replacement of the cloth is not a modern development but a long-standing practice. The tradition of annually renewing the Kaaba’s covering has continued for more than 100 years [1]. The Kiswah is crafted from high-quality black silk and is installed to cover the structure of the Kaaba.
Officials from the General Presidency oversee the logistical aspects of the transition to ensure the process does not disrupt the flow of worshippers. The ceremony serves as a formal transition into the new lunar year, marking a spiritual milestone for the global Muslim community [1].
By maintaining this rigorous annual schedule, Saudi authorities uphold a historical continuity that dates back to the early 20th century. The event remains one of the most significant administrative and religious tasks performed at the Grand Mosque each year [2].
“The tradition of annually renewing the Kaaba’s covering has continued for over 100 years.”
The annual replacement of the Kiswah reinforces the Saudi government's role as the custodian of Islam's holiest sites. By adhering to a century-old tradition, the state signals stability and continuity in its religious administration while marking the temporal transition of the Hijri calendar.
