Behold this impressive structure! This is the King Abdulaziz Complex for Manufacturing the Kaaba Kiswa. It was formerly known as the Kiswa Factory. The factory received its new name in 2017. This was in memory of King Abdulaziz. He was the founder of Saudi Arabia.
The Kiswa Factory stands as a testament to Islamic tradition. It also showcases remarkable craftsmanship. The factory is responsible for creating the Kiswa. The Kiswa is the cloth covering of the Kaaba. The Kaaba is the focal point for Muslims worldwide.
Every year, a new Kiswa adorns the Kaaba. This event marks Eid Al-Adha. It also signifies the beginning of the new Islamic year. The Kiswa Factory is a hub of activity. Skilled workers dedicate hours to create the Kiswa. They precisely embroider it. This ensures the Kaaba is beautifully adorned.
The King Abdulaziz Complex spans 100,000 square meters. It blends traditional methods with modern technology. The Kiswa creation begins with sourcing the finest silk. Cotton threads are also used. These materials undergo rigorous testing in the factory’s laboratory. This ensures top quality.
The threads are dyed. Then they are woven into cloth using high-end machines. The fabric undergoes physical tests. This ensures it can withstand environmental factors. Ahmed Al-Sulami a quality analyst said tensile strength must exceed a thousand-kilo force.
The Kiswa covers 658 square meters. It is made from 670 kilos of black silk. The Kiswa consists of 47 silk pieces. These are stitched together by special machines. The sides of the Kaaba are not equal. Each side has a different length and width.
The Kiswa features names and attributes of Allah. These include Ya Allah and Ya Mannan. It also includes La ilaha illallah Muhammadur Rasulullah. Threads are wound on bobbins. Then they are transferred to weaving machines. These machines work with a jacquard machine. This machine weaves the texts onto the black silk.
The automated weaving department makes the Ihram. The Ihram is the white cotton covering. It covers the Kiswa when it’s lifted during Hajj. Next, the Kiswa moves to the gilding and embroidery department. Artisans hand embroider verses from the Quran. They use 100 kilos of pure silver. They also use 120 kilos of gold-coated silver threads. This is done on 56 silk pieces.
The wires are not pure gold. They are made of gold-coated silver for flexibility. The texts are printed according to manuscripts. These manuscripts use Thuluth calligraphy. The Kaaba door features five connecting curtains. These curtains display Quranic verses.
The Kiswa also has 17 lamp-shaped medallions. Each features a name of Allah. Embroiderers use manasij. These are traditional wooden hoops. The fabric is pulled tight. Then workers do their embroidery. Cotton threads fill the letters. They are covered with gold and silver.
The Kiswa displays “Makkah Al-Mukarramah” in Arabic. It also shows the year and the reigning king’s name. It takes months to finish the embroidery. The pieces are stored at the General Presidency. They can only be used with permission from the King.
The Kiswa Factory is set to become a cultural attraction. It will offer insights into the Kiswa’s creation. Artificial intelligence will enhance the visitor experience. Robots will explain the Kiswa’s origin. They will also discuss the Quranic verses. The complex will launch a restoration center. This center will restore pieces of the Kiswa. The Kiswa Factory preserves tradition. It connects Muslims across time and space.