MAKKAH — Standing as a historic symbol of faith for Muslims around the globe, the door of the Holy Kaaba is one of the Grand Mosque’s most prominent architectural features throughout the ages. The Holy Kaaba’s door is located on the eastern side at a height of approximately 2.25 meters above the circumambulation (Mataf) floor, an intelligent design meant to protect the Kaaba from floodwaters that affected Makkah in past eras. **media[2675293]** During the era of the Quraysh tribe, prior to the Prophetic mission and the rebuilding of the Kaaba, the door was raised above ground level. Crafted during the reign of the late King Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in 1399 AH (1979 CE), the door measures about 3.1 meters high and 1.9 meters wide, and is made from approximately 280 kilograms of pure 24-carat gold, making it one of the most valuable doors in the world. The door’s facade is engraved and decorated with complex Islamic designs and Arabic calligraphy depicting Quranic verses and devotional inscriptions. It contains two large rings used to open the door and leads into the Holy Kaaba via a metal staircase, which is employed on occasions when entry into the Kaaba is permitted. **media[2675292]** Throughout history, several doors have served as the entrance to the Holy Kaaba. Historical sources indicate that the first door was installed by Prophet Ibrahim, peace be upon him, when he rebuilt the Holy Kaaba, at which time it was a simple door set directly on the ground. Throughout different Islamic periods maintenance and replacement of the Kaaba door were carried out, with caliphs and sultans ensuring its renewal and upkeep. In the Saudi era, the door is regularly maintained, with periodic cleaning and washing inside the Kaaba several times a year, according to special arrangements, including a cleansing ritual that uses Zamzam water mixed with rose water, in the presence of officials, scholars, and the Kaaba caretakers. **media[2675296]** The key to the Kaaba is entrusted to the Al Shaiba family, who have inherited the responsibility of guarding the key and opening the door since the time of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Today, the Kaaba door stands as a rare Islamic artistic masterpiece, combining historical authenticity with artistic precision. It also reflects the care that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia devotes to the two holy mosques and their features.
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