The key to the door of the Ka’bah, and the authority to open it, is in the hands of the family of the Servants of the Ka’bah (Beni Shaybah) of Mecca, according to an ancient tradition dating back some 16 centuries.

The reasons why this family holds the key are as follows:

The Order of the Prophet: The authority to keep the key to the Ka’bah was given by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to Uthman bin Talha (from the tribe of Beni Shaybah) after the conquest of Mecca. The Prophet said that this key would remain in their lineage until the Day of Judgment.

Spiritual Relic: For Muslims around the world, this key represents a great spiritual relic and honor.

Current Status: The key is currently kept by Sa’adin (Keeper of the Key), the oldest member of the Beni Shaybah family. The Kaaba is opened by members of this family on the orders of the Royal family of Saudi Arabia on occasions such as cleaning or special visits.