Who is Princess Muna Al Hussein? Everything We Know About His Majesty King Abdullah II’s Mother

Who is Princess Muna Al Hussein? Everything We Know About His Majesty King Abdullah II’s Mother

Meet Princess Mona Al Hussein, a figure of elegance and grace in the Jordanian royal family. Known for her dignified presence and frequent appearances, she has captured public admiration. As the mother of His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan, her life and contributions are deeply intertwined with the nation’s history

Who is Princess Muna Al Hussein?

Princess Muna Al Hussein, the mother of His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan, is renowned for her elegance and grace. Frequently seen alongside Queen Rania at various events, she captures the public’s admiration with her dignified presence. Her elegance was particularly noted during the silver jubilee ceremony of His Majesty King Abdullah II, where she wore a stunning burgundy outfit designed by Jordanian designer Aisha Al-Balawneh.

British Roots

Born Antoinette Avril Gardiner, and nicknamed Tony, Princess Muna Al Hussein was born on April 25, 1941, in Shelmondiston, United Kingdom. She grew up in a quiet countryside town, moving frequently due to her father Walter Gardiner’s military postings. This background laid the foundation for her resilient and adaptable nature.

Meeting King Hussein

Toni arrived in Jordan at 19 when her father was stationed there. She landed a job with the cast of the film “Lawrence of Arabia.” At a costume party, King Hussein, dressed as a pirate, met her. Her candid comment, “You look pretty scruffy your majesty!’ struck a chord with him, marking the beginning of their relationship.

Marriage and Royal Title

In 1961, Tony married King Hussein at Zahran Al-Amer Palace. She converted to Islam and adopted the name Muna Al Hussein, receiving the title “Her Royal Highness Princess Muna Al Hussein.” She chose not to take the title of “Queen” to avoid the associated burdens, thus becoming the “Princess Consort.”

Family Life

Her marriage to King Hussein produced four children: King Abdullah II, Prince Faisal, and twin princesses Aisha and Zein. Despite their love story, the couple divorced in 1971. Princess Muna retained her royal title and continued to live in Jordan with her children. She remained close to King Hussein, even attending his subsequent weddings.

Relationship with Queen Rania

Princess Muna shares a wonderful relationship with Queen Rania. Often seen sitting alongside Queen Rania, known for her wisdom and kind heart, she is a respected figure within the royal family, often turned to for advice and support.

Her Humanitarian Contributions

In 2023 Princess Muna Al Hussein was honored as an Honorary Global Ambassador by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI), reflecting her dedication to humanitarian causes. Beyond this role, she serves as the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) patron of nursing and midwifery in the Eastern Mediterranean region and is an honorary adviser for the WHO Collaborating Centre for Nursing Development in Jordan. Princess Muna joins an esteemed group of ADI ambassadors, including Queen Silvia of Sweden, Queen Sofia of Spain, and former Costa Rican President Luis Guillermo Solís Rivera. Her extensive humanitarian efforts highlight her commitment to global health and nursing education, further solidifying her influence and dedication to improving healthcare worldwide.

Princess Muna Al Hussein’s life is a testament to resilience, grace, and dedication to her family and adopted country, Jordan. Her story continues to inspire many within the kingdom and beyond.

Lead image courtesy of World Health Organisation (WHO)