Jordan’s crown prince weds scion of Saudi family in ceremony packed with stars and symbolism

35

Jordan’s Crown Prince Ties the Knot

Star-Studded Palace Ceremony

In a grand ceremony held at Zahran Palace in Jordan, Crown Prince Hussein, 28, exchanged vows with Saudi architect Rajwa Alseif, 29. The event was attended by numerous royals and VIPs from around the world, including Prince William and Kate Middleton from Britain, as well as US First Lady Jill Biden.

Significance and Symbolism

The wedding carries immense significance for the region, highlighting the importance of continuity in a country known for its stability. It also serves to rejuvenate the image of the monarchy following a recent palace feud. Furthermore, the union has the potential to strengthen the strategic bond between Jordan and its oil-rich neighbor, Saudi Arabia.

A Fairytale Ceremony

The bride, adorned in a beautiful white dress designed by Elie Saab, arrived at the palace in a classic 1968 Rolls-Royce Phantom V, specially crafted for the crown prince’s late great grandmother. The crown prince himself made a regal entrance, donning a ceremonial military uniform and a gold-hilted saber.

Traditional Muslim Wedding Ceremony

The families and guests gathered in an enchanting open-air gazebo surrounded by lush gardens for the “katb al-ketab,” a traditional Muslim wedding ceremony. Applause erupted as the marriage contract was signed. According to a royal decree, Rajwa Alseif will henceforth be known as Her Royal Highness Princess Rajwa Al Hussein.

Celebrations Across the Kingdom

Nation Unites in Celebration

As the couple sealed their vows and exchanged rings, a packed ancient Roman amphitheater several miles away erupted with excitement. Over 18,000 people gathered at various viewing parties throughout the country, cheering and waving flags to express their joy.

Joyous Procession and Festivities

Following the ceremony, the newlyweds emerged from the palace in a white custom Range Rover, accompanied by a convoy of bright red Land Rovers, motorcycles, and a military marching band. This procession paid homage to the traditional horse-mounted processions during the reign of King Abdullah I, the country’s founder. Jordan declared a public holiday, allowing tens of thousands of well-wishers to line the streets, attend free concerts, and enjoy cultural events.

Festive Atmosphere

In Amman, Saudi wedding guests and tourists dressed in traditional attire were seen at the Four Seasons Hotel, while the city itself was adorned with congratulatory banners and displays of royal regalia. The capital was filled with excitement, and people expressed their admiration for the couple.

The Future King and Economic Outlook

Prominent Symbol of the Future

As Crown Prince Hussein steps into this new chapter of his life, the wedding serves as a pivotal moment, presenting the future king of Jordan to the world.

Economic Considerations

While the wedding brings a momentary sense of joy to the Jordanian population, it occurs against a backdrop of economic challenges, including high youth unemployment and a struggling economy. The royal palace has turned the event into a PR campaign, blending tradition and modernity with a unique wedding hashtag and logo.

Historical Ties and Global Attendees

The wedding marks a significant alliance for the Hashemite monarchy, as they seek closer relations with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Arab countries. Notable attendees include international royalty, dignitaries, and US climate envoy John Kerry. The bride and Kate Middleton both wore gowns by Lebanese designer Elie Saab.

A Royal Celebration

The reception took place at Al Husseiniya Palace, where the newlyweds were welcomed with a traditional zaffeh procession, featuring music, dancing, and clapping. Over 1,700 guests, including the royal family, enjoyed live music, a banquet

Q: Who did Jordan’s Crown Prince marry in this royal wedding?

A: Jordan’s Crown Prince, Hussein, married Rajwa Alseif, a scion of a prominent Saudi family.

Q: Which notable guests attended the wedding?

A: The wedding was attended by notable guests including Britain’s Prince William and Kate Middleton, as well as U.S. First Lady Jill Biden. It also attracted senior royals from Europe and Asia, along with other dignitaries and foreign aristocrats.

Q: What was the significance of this wedding?

A: The wedding holds deep significance for the region, emphasizing continuity in a stable Arab state and rejuvenating the monarchy’s image. It also has the potential to strengthen the bond between Jordan and Saudi Arabia.

Q: What was the traditional wedding ceremony like?

A: The families and guests gathered in an open-air gazebo surrounded by gardens for a traditional Muslim wedding ceremony known as “katb al-ketab.” The marriage contract was signed, and Rajwa Alseif will now be known as Her Royal Highness Princess Rajwa Al Hussein.

Q: How did the people of Jordan celebrate the wedding?

A: The wedding brought people together in celebration across the kingdom. Crowds gathered to watch the ceremony on screens, attended free concerts and cultural events, and lined the streets to wave at the couple’s motorcade. The festive atmosphere was further enhanced by a public holiday declared for the occasion.

Q: What economic impact did the wedding have on Jordan?

A: The wedding brought a temporary moment of joy to Jordanians amid tough economic times. It was also turned into a PR campaign to highlight the country’s traditions and modernity, potentially boosting tourism and international relations.

Q: What is the significance of this wedding for Crown Prince Hussein?

A: The wedding marks a crucial rite of passage for Crown Prince Hussein, presenting him as the future king of Jordan and showcasing his growing prominence on the global stage.

Q: How does this wedding contribute to Jordan’s relationship with Saudi Arabia?

A: The wedding signifies an advantageous alliance for Jordan and reflects their efforts to strengthen ties with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Arab countries. It opens possibilities for closer cooperation and support between the two nations.