Makkah, April 19 -- As part of the preparations for the 1447 AH (2026) Haj season, authorities in Makkah have raised the lower portion of the Kiswah - the black silk covering of the Kaaba - by approximately three metres.

The exposed section has been covered with a white cotton cloth (Ihram), measuring 2.5 metres in width and 54 metres in length. It encircles all four sides and was installed in the early hours of Saturday, April 18.

The work was carried out by the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques. A specialised team from the King Abdul Aziz Complex completed the operation in around two hours.

A total of 34 skilled craftsmen were involved. The process included removing the lower sections of the Kiswah...