The Canadian Encyclopedia — neutral, cited, updated
July 26, 2026Sources cited
Canadianwire.
Canada’s encyclopedia & explainer
Home›Politics & World›Royalty›Rania of Jordan
Politics & World • Royalty

Rania of Jordan

Rania of Jordan, also known as Queen Rania, is the queen consort of Jordan and the wife of King Abdullah II.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Rania of Jordan, also known as Queen Rania, is the queen consort of Jordan and the wife of King Abdullah II. Born Rania Al-Yassin in Kuwait in 1970, she has been queen since 1999 and is known for public advocacy in education, health, women’s rights, youth empowerment, and cross-cultural dialogue.

Early life and education

Rania Al-Yassin was born in Kuwait on 31 August 1970 and is described in sources as being of Palestinian background. She studied business administration at the American University of Cairo, graduating in 1991.

Marriage and queenship

She married Abdullah bin Al Hussein on 10 June 1993, before he became king in 1999. After his accession, she became queen consort of Jordan.

Public role and advocacy

Queen Rania uses her position to support causes including education, health, children’s issues, women’s rights, youth empowerment, and cross-cultural understanding. Sources also note her involvement in social development and public communication efforts.

Family

Queen Rania and King Abdullah II have four children. Their children are Crown Prince Hussein, Princess Iman, Princess Salma, and Prince Hashem.

Key facts

  • She has been queen consort of Jordan since 1999.
  • She was born in Kuwait to Palestinian parents.
  • She married then-Prince Abdullah bin Al Hussein in 1993.
  • She has four children: Crown Prince Hussein, Princess Iman, Princess Salma, and Prince Hashem.
  • Her public work has focused on education, health, women’s rights, youth, and dialogue between cultures.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Queen Rania?
Queen Rania is the queen consort of Jordan and the wife of King Abdullah II.
When was Queen Rania born?
She was born on 31 August 1970.
Where was Queen Rania born?
She was born in Kuwait City, Kuwait.
When did she become queen of Jordan?
She became queen in 1999, after Abdullah II became king.
How many children does Queen Rania have?
She has four children.
What is Queen Rania known for?
She is known for advocacy related to education, health, women’s rights, youth, and dialogue between cultures.

References

  1. Queen Rania of Jordan official website — https://www.queenrania.jo/en/rania
    Supports: Birth date, education, marriage date, spouse, and children.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Rania-al-Abdullah
    Supports: Queen of Jordan since 1999, birth details, and public advocacy areas.
  3. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queen_Rania_of_Jordan
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, title, and family details.
  4. Biography — https://www.biography.com/royalty/queen-rania
    Supports: Marriage, children, and overview of her public advocacy and background.