Things to Do in Kiswa Factory

Every year in Mecca, master craftsmen create the Kaaba's black silk covering at Kiswa Factory—one of the world's most sacred manufacturing processes. Few outsiders understand this facility's true purpose. The artisans embroider Quranic verses in gold and silver thread using techniques passed down through generations. This isn't typical manufacturing. The factory merges centuries of tradition with modern precision, producing the intricate covering that drapes Islam's holiest shrine. Each year during Hajj, the new Kiswa replaces the old covering in a ceremony watched by millions. Worth knowing: old Kiswa pieces become diplomatic gifts. Muslim countries and organizations receive fragments that carry the blessing of having covered the sacred site for an entire year.

The local food scene reflects Mecca's international pilgrimage community with restaurants serving cuisine from across the Muslim world. You'll find traditional Saudi kabsa and mandi alongside Pakistani biryanis, Turkish kebabs, and Indonesian rendang. Many establishments cater specifically to pilgrims with hearty meals at reasonable prices. Small family-run places work best. These restaurants have served pilgrims for generations, often located in residential areas where factory workers and artisans live. Ramadan transforms evening dining. Special iftar menus and community experiences make this season particularly memorable for food ensoiasts.

Visit during Kiswa production season. April through July brings peak activity when craftsmanship becomes most visible in surrounding workshops, though crowds reach maximum density during this period. November to February offers cooler weather and better access to local artisans. The period immediately after Hajj (August-September) provides unique insight as the community transitions from pilgrimage intensity back to regular production cycles.