Why the Kaaba Gets a New Kiswa in Dhul Hijjah: Sacred Ceremony Explained

Every year, millions of Muslims around the world witness one of the most revered and visually captivating ceremonies in Islam: the changing of the Kaaba’s Kiswa—the sacred black cloth that covers the House of Allah. While many believe this happens in Muharram, the actual event takes place on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, during the Hajj pilgrimage.

So why the confusion with Muharram? What is the significance of this ceremony? And what happens to the old Kiswah? In this blog, we’ll explore the rich spiritual, historical, and cultural context of the Kiswa replacement ceremony, and how it reflects the unity and sacred traditions of the Muslim Ummah.

What is the Kaaba Kiswa?

The Kiswa is the richly embroidered black silk cloth that covers the Kaaba in Makkah. It is adorned with Quranic verses woven in gold and silver thread. Replacing the Kiswa is not a decorative decision—it’s a deeply symbolic act of devotion and reverence.

The Kiswa:

• Measures approximately 14 meters in height
• Is composed of 47 pieces of silk
• Weighs around 650 kilograms
• Includes over 120 kg of gold and silver threads for the calligraphy

The new Kiswa is placed over the Kaaba annually in a ceremonial process that’s been carried out for centuries.

When Does the Kiswa Replacement Actually Occur?

Contrary to popular perception, the Kiswa does not change during Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. The event is held on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, the day of Arafah during Hajj.

This misconception arises because Muharram comes soon after Dhul Hijjah. Many people identify the ceremony with Muharram since it represents the transition to the Islamic New Year.

Why Dhul Hijjah?

• It is the most sacred month for Hajj.
• The Day of Arafah is one of the most spiritually significant days in Islam.
• It marks renewal, forgiveness, and submission—aligning perfectly with the symbolism of replacing the Kiswa.

The timing enhances the ceremony’s spiritual relevance, as millions of pilgrims gather in Makkah to perform their rites while witnessing this sacred transformation.

The Ritual Process: How the New Kiswa is Installed

A professional crew from the King Abdulaziz Complex for Manufacturing the Kaaba’s Kiswa in Makkah oversees the Kiswa altering procedure. The method involves:

• Removal of the Old Kiswa: Carefully removed to preserve every inch with care.
• Cleaning the Kaaba: The building is cleaned down and scented with musk and rosewater.
• Installation of the New Kiswa: The cloth is draped and sewn into place in sections.
• Final Hizam (belt) Placement: The golden calligraphic band is the last to be attached.

The ceremony is scheduled so that the Kaaba is completely covered in the fresh Kiswa by the morning of Eid al-Adha.

This spiritual process is carried out with great reverence, as those engaged frequently fast, pray, and purify themselves before beginning the task.

Symbolism Behind Replacing the Kiswa

The replacement of the Kiswa is not simply a tradition—it’s a reflection of:

• Renewal and Purity: Just as pilgrims seek spiritual renewal through Hajj, the Kaaba too is given a new robe.
• Unity of the Ummah: The global Muslim community shares in this moment, either physically or spiritually.
• Royal and Religious Heritage: Historically, Muslim rulers would send the Kiswa as an offering—demonstrating their allegiance to Islam.

For many Muslims, watching the new Kiswa being draped is deeply emotional. It’s a visual metaphor for covering one’s soul with taqwa (piety) and humility before Allah.

What Happens to the Old Kiswa?

Following removal, the original Kiswa is carefully disassembled into smaller bits. They are:

• Presented to dignitaries, scholars, and heads of state.
• Sent to Museums and Mosques
• Sometimes made available to collectors or for purchase by verified merchants.

These artifacts are revered as sacred relics, and are frequently framed as Kiswah wall art or passed down as family heirlooms. They have enormous spiritual and historical worth.

History of the Kiswa Tradition

The tradition of covering the Kaaba predates Islam. Early coverings were simple cloths offered by Yemeni tribes. After Islam, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Caliphs continued this sacred tradition.

Notable historical shifts:

• The Abbasid Caliphate introduced silk fabric
• The Ottomans developed centralized production
• The modern Saudi era established the King Abdulaziz Kiswa Complex

Today, the Kiswa represents both historical continuity and modern devotion. It’s a blend of artistic excellence, faith, and cultural pride.

How the Kiswa is Made

The new Kiswa is created all year in the King Abdulaziz Complex, which employs over 200 experienced artisans. The method involves:

• Importing Raw Silk from Italy
• Dying the silk black with organic ingredients.
• Weaving and embroidery with actual gold and silver threads

Quranic calligraphy created by skilled artisans

The finished product is more than just a cloth; it is a devotional masterpiece created with love, care, and the utmost respect.

Kaaba Kiswa and Islamic Home Decor

Fragments of the old Kiswa are sometimes framed and sold for display in homes. These serve as:

• Spiritual reminders of the sacred sites
• Heirloom gifts for special occasions
• Islamic home decor items that combine faith and elegance

If you’re looking to incorporate a piece of this sacred tradition into your home, choose verified sellers that offer authentic Kaaba Kiswah for sale like Kiswah Islamic Store.

Misconceptions About the Kiswa Ceremony and Muharram

Let’s clarify a few common misconceptions:

• It’s not a New Year ceremony: Though close in time to Muharram, it’s tied to Hajj, not the Hijri New Year.
• It’s not decorative: It’s a sacred ritual with centuries of tradition.
• Not publicly accessible: Only selected individuals and teams can witness the ceremony in person.

Understanding the true timing and meaning of the Kiswa replacement fosters a deeper appreciation for this spiritual tradition.

Final Thoughts: A Global Symbol of Devotion

The changing of the Kaaba’s Kiswa is more than an event—it’s a moment of spiritual connection felt by the entire Ummah. Though the ceremony occurs in Dhul Hijjah, its impact resonates into Muharram and beyond, reminding us of faith, renewal, and unity.

As we enter Muharram and reflect on the Islamic New Year, the image of the freshly covered Kaaba remains etched in our hearts—a call to spiritual renewal for all.

Whether witnessed live or experienced through imagery, the ceremony is a powerful reminder that Islam is a living, breathing tradition upheld with dignity and love.