Exploring the Modern Royal Family of Jordan: Tradition Meets Progress
King Abdullah II's Visit to Jordan
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Jordan, where he is set to meet King Abdullah II. The discussions will focus on strengthening ties and fostering friendship. However, much attention is being drawn to King Abdullah II's family, which is known to be the 41st descendant of the Prophet Muhammad. Despite being the king of a Muslim nation, his family does not adhere to the traditional practices of wearing burqas or hijabs. Queen Rania, his wife, is often celebrated as one of the most beautiful and fashionable women globally. King Abdullah himself is a trendsetter, a fan of Star Trek, and is regarded as one of the most beloved Muslim leaders in the Western world.
Meet the Royal Children
King Abdullah II and Queen Rania are proud parents of four children, all of whom have been raised in a modern environment, attending some of the best Western institutions. Their lifestyle is so remarkable that even Western celebrities seem less glamorous in comparison. Let's take a closer look at the royal family.
Crown Prince Hussein: The Future King
Hussein, born in 1994, studied International History at Georgetown University in the USA. Following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, he received military training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the UK. Currently, he serves as a captain in the Jordanian army and frequently accompanies his father on diplomatic missions. Recently, he married Saudi architect Rajwa Al Saif in a grand ceremony.
Princess Iman: A Reflection of Her Mother
Born in 1996, Princess Iman is often seen as a carbon copy of her mother. She has also studied at Georgetown University and the Parsons School of Design in New York. Iman is an avid sports enthusiast and enjoys horseback riding. In 2023, she married financier Jamil Alexander Thermiotis, who hails from Venezuela.
Princess Salma: The Jet Pilot
Born in 2000, Salma broke the mold of the delicate princess stereotype by becoming the first female jet pilot in the Jordanian army after training at Sandhurst. Her achievement sends a powerful message about women's empowerment in a Muslim country.
Prince Hashem: The Youngest Graduate
The youngest son, born in 2005, recently graduated from King's Academy in Jordan and is now pursuing further studies at Georgetown University in the USA.
Do the Women in the Royal Family Wear Burqas?
This question often arises, and the answer is a resounding no. Queen Rania is rarely seen in a hijab or burqa; instead, she opts for designer Western attire, often wearing trousers and skirts. She openly expresses her views on significant platforms, with her hair uncovered.
Queen Rania has stated in various interviews that modesty in Islam pertains to one's thoughts and eyes, not merely clothing. She has emphasized that wearing or not wearing a hijab is a personal choice, lamenting that many in the West view the hijab as a symbol of oppression, which is not the case.
King Abdullah has never imposed conservative rules on the women in his family. His daughters, Iman and Salma, dress modernly like their mother and are often seen in public without head coverings. This reflects a significant shift in Jordanian society, where the royal family exemplifies that one can be modern while still embracing their Muslim identity.
Wealth and Swiss Secrets
Jordan may be a small country, but King Abdullah's wealth has frequently made headlines. The 2021 Pandora Papers leak revealed that he secretly acquired luxury properties worth over $100 million in the USA and the UK. Reports indicate that he owns three lavish villas by the sea, valued at millions of dollars, and several homes in some of the world's most expensive cities. The Credit Suisse leak also disclosed that he has multiple accounts in Swiss banks holding approximately $245 million. However, the royal family has denied these claims, stating that these assets are part of the king's private inheritance, used for official visits and security, not for misusing public funds.
Adventurous King Abdullah
King Abdullah is not confined to palaces; his lifestyle is filled with adventure. He is a trained pilot capable of flying Cobra attack helicopters and has a passion for skydiving and scuba diving.
Few know that before becoming king, he made a cameo appearance in an episode of his favorite TV series, 'Star Trek: Voyager.' His love for science fiction has led him to promote the film industry in Jordan, where movies like 'The Martian' and 'Aladdin' were filmed.
At times, he disguises himself to explore the streets of Jordan, seeking to understand how ordinary citizens feel about government services and hospitals. He has even been known to pose as a taxi driver or an elderly man.
A Blend of Islam and Modernity
King Abdullah II and his family exemplify that one can maintain traditional roots while reaching for the sky. They celebrate traditional Arab customs at their son's wedding while also showcasing modernity, with their daughter flying fighter jets and their wife advocating for women's empowerment in jeans. Their story is not just about wealth or glamour; it conveys a message that a Muslim family can thrive in modernity while firmly holding onto their faith and identity. This may explain why Jordan remains a beacon of stability and peace in a tumultuous Middle East.