Is it permissible to deliberately look at the Kaaba during the circumambulation (Tawaf)?

There is no sound Hadith regarding the virtue of looking at the Kaaba, and merely looking at it is not an act of worship for which one is rewarded. However, if looking at it is accompanied by contemplation of its glorification and the souls' yearning for it, then this is good and prescribed. Ibn Umar looked at the Kaaba and said: "How great you are, and how great is your sanctity! Yet, the believer is greater in sanctity to Allah than you." Ibn Uthaymeen clarified that looking at the Kaaba is not an act of worship in itself, but rather it becomes desirable if a person reflects upon the revered structure and his faith increases.