The kiswa, which means a cover, has been embroidered in 150 kg gold and silver and 670kg of  fine thread (Resham).

For nearly a century its manufacture has been entrusted to local artisans. Before that it used to come from Egypt.

The Kiswa Factory was built about 75 years ago under the orders of King Abdul Aziz, the Kingdom’s founder.

A new kiswa is made every year at the factory.

“Many people hold tight to the kiswa and may tear the cloth during the process. Some of the pilgrims may cut pieces of the kiswa to take home as souvenirs,”.