Watch: Holy Kaaba washed using 40 litres of Zamzam water in annual ritual
The washing process, known as 'Ghusl', always follows the replacement of the Kiswa which took place on the first day of the Islamic New Year.
During the Ghusl ritual, the doors of the Kaaba — Islam's holiest site — are opened, and its interior is cleansed by wiping the walls with cloths soaked in a blend of Zamzam water and rose water.
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This year's Kaaba washing was performed by Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region on behalf of Saudi King alman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Following the ritual, Prince Saud performed Tawaf prayer.
The event, which took place after Fajr prayer on Thursday, saw heavy security presence.
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State guests including ambassadors of Muslim countries participated in the Ghusl Ka�bah ceremony pic.twitter.com/b1bYBla99g
— Inside the Haramain (@insharifain) July 10, 2025
What is Kaaba washed with?
The process of washing the Kaaba consists of three main stages. First, the preparation stage using 40 litres of Zamzam water divided into two gallons and mixed with Taif rose water and a special oud oil.
Then there is the actual washing stage, where the walls and interiors of the Kaaba are washed. Finally, there is the perfuming and incense stage which involves Taif rose oil and premium oud incense.
The whole process uses:
40 litres of Zamzam water divided into two gallons of silver
540 millilitres of Taif rose water
24 millilitres of high-quality Taif rose oil
24 millilitres of Oud oil
3 millilitres of musk to perfume the walls and floor of the Kaaba
Saudi authorities clarified that all materials used in the ritual were carefully prepared in advance "to ensure the highest levels of purity and sanctity".
Take a look at photos from the annual religious ceremony here:
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