Newly released documents have revealed email correspondence detailing how pieces of the sacred cloth covering the Kaaba in Mecca were shipped to the United States and delivered to convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein in 2017.
The emails, dated between February and March 2017, show that the shipment was arranged by a United Arab Emirates–based businesswoman, Aziza al-Ahmadi, in collaboration with a man identified as Abdullah al-Maari. The correspondence outlines the organisation of an international delivery of three items linked to the Kiswa—the black, gold-embroidered cloth that covers the Kaaba, Islam’s holiest site located in Saudi Arabia.
According to the documents, the items were transported by air freight from Saudi Arabia to Florida via British Airways. The emails detail logistical arrangements, including invoicing, customs clearance and coordination for final delivery within the United States.
The shipment reportedly arrived at Epstein’s residence in Florida in March 2017, several years after he had served a jail sentence and was registered as a sex offender.
One of the emails highlights the religious significance of the cloth. Writing directly to Epstein, Ahmadi stated: “The black piece was touched by minimum 10 million Muslims of different denominations, Sunni, Shia and others.” The message underscores the deep spiritual value attached to the Kiswa, which is revered by Muslims worldwide.
However, the released correspondence does not clarify how Ahmadi came to know Epstein or the reasons behind sending the sacred items to him. There is also no explanation in the emails regarding the authorization process that allowed the export of the Kaaba-related cloth from Saudi Arabia.
The revelation has raised questions and concerns due to the religious importance of the Kiswa and Epstein’s criminal history. As of now, there has been no official comment from Saudi authorities, UAE officials, or representatives linked to the individuals named in the emails.
The disclosure adds a new and controversial dimension to the extensive body of material that continues to emerge following investigations into Epstein’s activities and associations.
