For the primary time in historical past, the sacred masking of the Holy Kaaba, generally known as the Kiswa, is being exhibited outdoors Makkah, providing guests a singular alternative to witness its intricate craftsmanship up shut.
The Kiswa, which Muslims around the globe face in prayer, is being showcased on the Islamic Arts Biennale held at King Abdulaziz Airport in Jeddah.
This interactive show supplies perception into the detailed artistry concerned in its creation, from hand-weaving to embroidery with gold and silver threads.
The occasion, operating till Could 25, goals to focus on the wealthy heritage of Islamic arts and the centuries-old custom of Kiswa-making.
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Held on the Hajj terminal of Jeddah airport, the exhibition takes guests via the meticulous strategy of crafting the Kiswa from choosing the best silk to the ultimate phases of preparation earlier than it adorns the Holy Kaaba in Makkah.
The manufacturing of the Kiswa takes place on the King Abdulaziz Advanced in Makkah, the place over 200 artisans and administrative employees work on its manufacturing. The advanced options specialised departments for dyeing, weaving, printing, and embroidery, geared up with the world’s tallest computerized stitching machine.
Roughly 1,000kg of black-dyed silk is used for the Kiswa, together with 120kg of gold threads and 100kg of silver threads. Every year, on the primary day of the Islamic lunar Hijri 12 months, the Kiswa is changed in a grand ceremony on the Grand Mosque in Makkah, Islam’s holiest web site.
The biennale additionally explores the historic evolution of Kiswa-making, showcasing the superior inventive strategies which were used over the centuries to take care of the religious and cultural significance of this sacred fabric.
Earlier, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced the opening of Hajj 2025 registration for home pilgrims, together with residents and residents, urging candidates to submit their requests via the Nusuk app or the official e-portal.
The ministry emphasised the significance of early registration, advising candidates to finish their well being info, add accompanying pilgrims, and submit requests for exemption from the Mahram requirement if wanted.