Factory of Kaaba
The Kaaba has a long history of being covered and adorned. Tradition says it was either the Prophet Ismail (SAW) or a grandfather of Prophet Mohamed (PBUH) who first placed the cloth curtain – called the Kiswa – upon the Ancient House.
Over the centuries, the Kaaba’s coverings have been made in various fabrics and colors. Today, this sacred duty falls to a special government-owned factory in Makkah – the Factory of Kaaba Kiswa Manufacturing.
A multitude of artisans design, dye, weave, print and embroider the Kiswa. Great care is taken in crafting both its outer black silk curtain and inner green silk lining.
The Factory of Kaaba Kiswa Manufacturing is about a 17km (or 10.56 mi) drive west of central Makkah.
Discover how more than 100 workers transform 670kg of pure silk into the Kiswa. Every year the covering’s outer black curtain is replaced. The used fabric is carefully sectioned to create gifts for dignitaries and world leaders.
Visitors are welcome to see the artisans at work from 9 am to noon on Saturdays, Mondays, and Wednesdays.
