JEDDAH: Every year, the old black silk cloth that covers the Kaaba is removed and a new one is draped on the 9th day of the Islamic month of Dhu Al-Hijjah, which falls on Monday Aug 20 this year.
Known in Arabic as the “Kiswa,” the black and gold cloth that is wrapped around the Kaaba gets replaced once a year during the Hajj season.
The move occurs when pilgrims head to Mount Arafat to witness a key ritual during pilgrimage. The older kiswa is removed and replaced with a new one.
On Sunday, a team of technicians are assigned to conduct the task, by lifting the gold- embroidered pieces from the kiswa corners.
This includes lifting the curtain draped over the Kaaba’s door, which is embroidered from pure gold.
It also includes four panels inscribed with Surat Al-Ikhlas [a Qur’anic verse] placed in every corner of the Kaaba and lanterns inscribed with Qur’anic verses hanging in its interior.
The delicate task is carried as per an operational plan to re-adorn the Kaaba with the new kiswa, said Ahmad bin Mohammad Al Masnouri, the head of the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Holy Kaaba Kiswah.
Process to place the Holy Kaaba’s new ‘Kiswa’ begins for Hajj 2018
Process to place the Holy Kaaba’s new ‘Kiswa’ begins for Hajj 2018
Taif festival celebrates Saudi Arabia’s literary icons
- It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content
TAIF: A special section highlighting key Saudi literary figures forms part of the Writers and Readers Festival in Taif.
The area explores the lives of distinguished writers, poets, and authors who have shaped the Kingdom’s creative landscape, influencing literature, journalism, theater and intellectual thought.
It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.
Organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the festival runs until Jan. 15 and features 42 prominent publishing houses from Saudi Arabia and overseas, offering visitors the chance to explore the latest works in literature, philosophy and general knowledge.
Meanwhile, the festival’s interactive murals section engages visitors with openwork art panels, allowing them to contribute to the city’s features and identity.
The murals depict Taif’s natural and historical landmarks, including Al-Hada Mountain, the Taif rose gardens, and traditional Hijazi palaces. Others are inspired by Souq Okaz, a historic literary and commercial center linked to the region’s poetic heritage.
Designed by a visual artist, they blend folk-inspired elements with imaginative expression, creating a collaborative experience that celebrates the city’s beauty and brings art closer to the public.
