Every year the Kaaba is covered with a new Kiswa, a cloth of black silk embroidered with Qur'anic calligraphy. The King Abdulaziz Complex for the Kiswa of the Holy Kaaba in Makkah is where this cloth is made, and a visit lets you see the craft behind one of the most recognisable sights in the Muslim world.
What you can see
- The weaving and dyeing of the black silk, using both traditional and modern methods.
- The embroidery and calligraphy section, where verses are worked in gold- and silver-wrapped thread.
- A section that preserves historic Kiswas from earlier periods.
Before you go
- Visits are usually in the morning on weekdays and may need prior arrangement. Check the current visiting arrangements before you go and plan this stop first in your day.
- The complex is roughly 10 km from the Haram, so a private taxi is the easiest way to reach it.
- Dress modestly. Photography rules inside can change, so follow the staff instructions.
Combine it into one tour
Our Makkah Hidden Gems Tour takes you from your hotel to the Kiswa Factory, the Makkah Museum and the historic site of Hudaybiyah, then back to your hotel, in one private trip with a driver who waits for you. Press Book this tour above to see the fare and book in a minute.