Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Background
Born into a distinguished Arab-American family (her father served under the administration of John F
Kennedy and was head of Pan-Am for a while).
Community Service
Set up her own charity, the influential Noor Foundation.
Public Relations
Important role in explaining Jordan's stand against the 1990 Gulf War to American audiences and
active campaigner for women's rights, children's welfare and community improvement.
Further Information
See Queen Noor's website (
www.nooralhusseinfoundation.org
).
Queen Rania
Royal Connection
Wife of the present king, King Abdullah; married in 1993.
Former Name
Rania Al-Yassin
Former Occupation
Business administration
From
Kuwait; studied at the American University of Cairo.
Background
Born into a notable Jordanian family of Palestinian origin.
Community Service
Set up her own charity, the influential Jordan River Foundation.
Public Relations
Not afraid of a public profile; can be seen in activities as diverse as campaigning for the rights of
women to running the Dead Sea Marathon.
Further Information
See Queen Rania's website (
www.queenrania.jo
).
Marriage
Marriages reflect the sense of family allegiance and are often arranged for the benefit of
the families involved, with matches commonly made between cousins. It is fair to say,
however, that parents do not often enforce a wedding against their daughter's wish. In
2001 the legal age of marriage was lifted from 15 years old for women and 16 for men to
18 for both, although Islamic judges are still permitted to sanction underage marriages.
The marriage ceremony takes place either at the mosque, church or home of the bride
or groom. After the marriage the men of the family drive around the streets in a long con-
voy, sounding their horns, blasting out music and partying until sunrise.
Polygamy (by men) is rare although legal. Men who marry more than once (Islam al-
lows four wives if each wife is assured equal treatment) are obliged to inform both their
first and their new wives. Amendments to the law in 2002 made it possible for women to
file for divorce if they repay the dowry given by their husband, though the social stigma
regarding divorce remains strong.
