The Kaaba's covering was raised in preparation for the Hajj season of 1447 AH

On Friday, the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques completed the raising of the Kaaba's covering by three meters, as part of the annual preparations to receive pilgrims for the Hajj season of 1447 AH. This step is considered one of the most important signs announcing the start of the practical and spiritual preparations for this great season, during which the eyes of Muslims from all over the world turn towards the holy sites.

The precise procedures for raising the Kaaba's covering

involved of raising the Kaaba's covering dismantling its lower sections and separating the corners, then raising and securing it at a height of 3 meters. In addition, the white cotton fabric surrounding the raised section, measuring two meters in width, was secured on all sides, and the lamps were returned to their designated positions according to organized and precise procedures. The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques explained that this complex operation took approximately two hours of continuous work and was carried out by 34 skilled craftsmen and technicians from the specialized national workforce, who worked harmoniously and with great precision to complete the task according to the highest approved standards to ensure the covering's safety.

The historical roots of caring for the Holy Kaaba

The care given to the Holy Kaaba and its covering is deeply rooted in Islamic history. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the Rightly Guided Caliphs after him paid great attention to perfuming and covering the Kaaba. The craft of making the covering has evolved over the ages, eventually settling in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which established the King Abdulaziz Complex for the Kaaba Covering. The tradition of raising the lower part of the covering before the start of the Hajj season is a long-standing practice, a precautionary measure reflecting the reverence and veneration for the Holy House of God and highlighting the Kingdom's leading role in serving the Two Holy Mosques.

Religious dimensions and regional and international influence

The significance of this event extends beyond mere organization; it carries profound religious and spiritual dimensions that resonate deeply with Muslims locally, regionally, and internationally. The mere circulation of images and videos of the Kaaba adorned with its raised, white covering rekindles feelings of longing and anticipation in the hearts of millions of Muslims worldwide to perform the fifth pillar of Islam. This event also reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's complete readiness and exceptional ability to manage massive crowds, further solidifying its international standing as a guardian of the Muslim world and a protector of its holy sites.

Protecting the Kaaba covering and facilitating the rituals of the pilgrims

The General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques confirmed that this procedure is part of the annual routine maintenance aimed primarily at preserving the integrity of the Kaaba's covering and protecting it from contact or damage. Given the high volume of circumambulation and close proximity to the Kaaba during the Hajj season, some pilgrims, driven by spiritual devotion, may cling to the covering or attempt to cut pieces of it for blessings, potentially causing it to tear. Therefore, covering the exposed portion with white cotton cloth is a crucial step that reflects the high level of organization and precision in the comprehensive preparations undertaken by the relevant authorities to facilitate the pilgrims' performance of their rituals with ease and peace of mind.