Zaki Kassar, a highly experienced textile worker at the Kiswa Factory of the Holy Kaaba, has stated that despite the factory’s attempt to introduce machines to aid in the completion of the Kaaba’s cover, hand embroidery still surpasses their performance.
In a video released by the Saudi Center for Government Communication (CGC), Kassar emphasized that the art of hand embroidery entails several integrated steps, making it a remarkable craft.
Kassar, who has dedicated 39 years of his life to the factory, warmly welcomes pilgrims and visitors, noting that many are moved to tears of joy upon witnessing the beauty of the Kaaba’s cover.
Reflecting on his journey in the factory, Kassar shared that he initially sought employment in the military in Riyadh, but fate led him to join the Kaaba Kiswa Factory. Now on the brink of retirement, he has completed nearly four decades of service.
“The first needle I embroidered on the Kiswa brought a sense of rejuvenation to my heart,” he recalled, demonstrating his deep passion and love for his work. Over the years, Kassar’s fingers have borne the marks of countless embroidery needles due to his unwavering dedication.
Working seven continuous hours per day, the factory workers develop strong bonds, akin to a closely-knit family. Kassar referred to his colleague, Hamdan, as a “lifelong friend.”
During the Hajj pilgrimage of 2023, a group of pilgrims had the opportunity to visit the factory. Muhammad Shafi, an African Hajj pilgrim, expressed his delight at touching the Kiswa and experiencing the intricate textile embroidery. He eagerly anticipated returning the following year with his wife and two sons to witness the captivating beauty of the Kaaba and acknowledge his contribution to its embroidery.
Umm Ali, a Bosnian Hajj pilgrim, was overcome with emotion upon entering the factory and seeing the cover of the Kaaba. She expressed her desire to revisit the factory with her children in the future.
It is worth noting that in May 2017, King Salman approved the name change of the Kiswa Factory to the King Abdul Aziz Complex for Holy Kaaba Kiswa. This decision reflects the continuous care and attention given to the Holy Kaaba by the government of Saudi Arabia, a tradition established by the founder, King Abdul Aziz. He specifically ordered the establishment of a dedicated facility for the production of the Holy Kaaba’s cover in Makkah.
The annual cost of the Holy Kaaba’s Kiswa currently exceeds SR20 million, weighing 850 kilograms. It is meticulously woven and embroidered with silk, gold, and silver threads each year. The specialized section within the complex is responsible for adorning the Kaaba with 54 gilded pieces, utilizing 120 kilograms of gilding, 100 kilograms of gold-plated silver, and 760 kilograms of silk.
