Holy Kaaba Washed in Annual Ceremony in Makkah

The annual washing of the Holy Kaaba took place inside Masjid al-Haram in Makkah after the Fajr prayer on 15 Muharram 1448 AH (30 June 2026). Prince Saud bin Mishal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Makkah Region, led the ceremony on behalf of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

The ritual is organized and supervised by the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque, with coordination from the Emirate of Makkah Province. The Deputy Emir and accompanying dignitaries entered the Kaaba through its door using a staircase placed at the threshold.

During the ceremony, the interior walls were washed with Zamzam water mixed with rose water along with high-quality oud and perfumes, using cloth pieces soaked in the mixture. The floor was splashed with fragranced Zamzam water and wiped manually, sometimes using palm leaves or cloth, while white towels were used to wipe and massage the walls until thoroughly cleaned. After completing the washing, the Deputy Emir circumambulated the Kaaba and offered two rak'ahs of Tawaf.

Enhanced care standards

The Zamzam, rose water and oud mixture, along with cleaning materials, is prepared early and centrally by the General Presidency to ensure quality and hygiene. Attendance is limited to senior officials, selected dignitaries, members of the diplomatic corps, and the saddana (custodians) of the Kaaba. Access control and procedural order are handled by Masjid al-Haram security and administration.

For residents and visitors, it is worth noting that there is no public booking, ticketing, or paid access for the washing ceremony itself. No fees are charged to pilgrims or visitors for this event, and observing is only possible from general prayer areas when the mosque is open and security allows. There are no official digital services for registering to attend or participate in washing the Kaaba.

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