Ceremony to replace covering of Kaaba to take place during dawn prayer of 9th day of Dhu Al-Hijjah

The ceremony to replace the covering (Kiswa) of the holy Kaaba will take place during dawn prayer of the ninth day of the twelfth month of Dhu Al-Hijjah. (SPA)
Updated 19 August 2018
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Ceremony to replace covering of Kaaba to take place during dawn prayer of 9th day of Dhu Al-Hijjah

JEDDAH: The ceremony to replace the covering (Kiswa) of the holy Kaaba will take place during dawn prayer of the ninth day of the twelfth month of Dhu Al-Hijjah in the Islamic calendar (corresponding to Aug. 20,
The ceremony of replacing the Kiswa will be supervised by 160 technicians and manufacturers, based on the tradition of the General Presidency of the Holy Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque every year on this day.
The Kiswa of the old Kaaba will be replaced with a new cover, under the supervision and follow-up of the President of the General Presidency for the Holy Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais.
Dr. Al-Sudais said in a speech on this occasion that serving the holy sites and the pilgrims was one of their primary concerns.


Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage

The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. (SPA)
Updated 19 December 2025
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Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage

  • Festival now established as a premier annual event

AlUla: The Winter at Tantora Festival launched on Thursday in AlUla. It runs until Jan. 10 and presents a cultural season which celebrates the region’s rich civilizational, cultural, and historic legacy.

The festival’s program includes a wide array of cultural, artistic, and traditional activities, reported the Saudi Press Agency. 

Attractions include Old Town Nights, Shorfat Tantora, When Shadow Tracks Us, and the Al-Manshiyah Carnival.

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In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities.

In addition, there are guided tours of street art through the Old Town, special events commemorating the Year of Handicrafts, culinary experiences, and artistic and musical performances.

The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities. The modern festival honors this tradition by marking the onset of winter and the start of the planting season.

This year’s edition offers a range of experiences to celebrate heritage, genuine local culture, and traditional craftsmanship. 

As part of AlUla Moments, the Winter at Tantora Festival supports efforts to boost cultural and tourist engagement while enhancing the visitor experience.

The initiative reflects Saudi Vision 2030’s commitment to advancing cultural tourism and promoting the Kingdom’s historic landmarks.

The festival has established itself as one of AlUla’s premier annual events, consistently attracting both domestic and international audiences.