MAKKAH: Saudi specialists are carrying out the final stages of replacing the Kiswah, the black silk covering of the Holy Kaaba, in an annual process that coincides with the start of the new Hijri year. The replacement of the Kiswah is one of the most significant rituals associated with the Grand Mosque and marks the culmination of months of work at the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Kaaba's Covering in Makkah.

As Muslims around the world prepare to receive a new Hijri year, the Holy Kaaba is preparing to receive its new Kiswa in a tradition renewed annually at Islam's holiest site.

Kaaba’s new Kiswa to be installed for the Hijri New Year, blending centuries-old Islamic craftsmanship with modern techniques at the Grand Mosque in Mecca.