From the scene: Onlookers share excitement over historic Royal wedding

Red Motorcade
(Photos: Royal Court)
AMMAN — Amidst the jubilant festivities that have swept across the Kingdom, heralding the union of HRH Crown Prince Hussein and HRH Princess Rajwa Al-Hussein, Jordan News interviewed onlookers to capture a glimpse into the collective sentiments surrounding this historic event. اضافة اعلان

Here is what we were told.


A celebration steeped in traditionThe celebratory air infused every corner of the Kingdom, as both the young and the elderly reveled in the blissful union.

Maryam Al-Shayab, a 72-year-old, expressed her deep affection for the Crown Prince, evoking memories of his grandfather, the late King Hussein, whose legacy has left an indelible mark on Jordan.

"I wanted to witness the wedding ceremony of the Crown Prince, for I hold him dear to my heart, as he reminds me of his grandfather, from whom he inherited a lot."

Shayab further praised the enduring customs and traditions of the Hashemite Kingdom, evident in the grandeur of the wedding festivities. Accompanied by her loved ones, who also shared her joy, she emphasized the pride with which the Hashemites embrace Jordanian heritage.

From the bustling streets to the windows of apartments, the national flag of Jordan can be seen proudly waving, encapsulating the contagious excitement that has gripped citizens.

Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, numerous Jordanian families have held booths bedecked with balloons and the official logo of the wedding, "Celebrating Al Hussein".

Within these stalls, families generously distributed delectable treats such as chocolates, dates, and coffee, capitalizing on the prevailing festive spirit that unites the nation.


Eager anticipation marks the dayAs early afternoon unfolded, eager onlookers congregated outside Zahran Palace, adorning the streets with a tapestry of anticipation.

From the momentous signing of the Islamic marriage contract to the Red Motorcade and the wedding reception, the people of Jordan awaited their chance to honor the newlyweds with patience.

Shayab, recounted how she had eagerly positioned herself by the roadside since 2 pm, yearning for a glimpse of the Crown Prince, and a chance to extend her heartfelt greetings.

Hailing from Indonesia and working at the Indonesian Embassy, Mohammed Sidqi expressed the world's eagerness to bear witness to this extraordinary event.

Sidqi, deeply moved by the unique celebrations held by the Hashemites, took countless photographs of the procession. He affirmed, "the Hashemites' wedding is a wedding for every Jordanian household."


Jordanians ‘right to happiness’Similarly, Thamer Al-Munasir, aged 40, lauded the ceremony's beauty and meticulous attention to detail. Fondly recalling the wedding of King Abdullah and Queen Rania nearly three decades ago, Munasir commended the resilience of the Jordanian people, who, despite enduring challenging economic conditions.

He confirmed that Jordanians, despite the difficult economic conditions they are facing, “still believe in their right to happiness”.

Meanwhile, two young men from Bahrain, Abdullah Al-Khalidi and Ammar Al-Khalidain, arrived in Amman three days prior, driven by their deep admiration for HRH Crown Prince Hussein and HRH Princess Rajwa Al-Hussein.

Khalidi and Khalidain, buoyed by the atmosphere of celebration that envelops the capital city, eagerly explored the streets of Amman, which they deem worthy of this momentous occasion.

They exuberantly proclaimed, "We have witnessed an outpouring of love from the Jordanian people towards their leaders, with both young and old adorning the procession route.”


Steeped in tradition and symbolismThe Red Motorcade drove through the streets of Amman, commencing at Zahran Palace and culminating at the Husseiniya Palace. Thousands of Jordanians and residents alike seized the opportunity to partake in the festivities along the procession route.

The motorcade, an emblematic sight intrinsic to Jordanian national occasions since the inception of the Hashemite Kingdom, took a tour around areas of the capital.

Comprising eight crimson-clad armored Land Rover vehicles and 11 motorcycles, the Motorcade stands as a symbol of unity.

On special occasions, the procession expands to include horse and camel riders, accompanied by the Jordan Armed Forces Musical Band, who fill the air with stirring military melodies played on bagpipes.


Joy amidst challenges
Um Rakan Al-Moumani, having traveled from north of Kingdom in Irbid, came to the occasion attired in a resplendent Jordanian dress adorned with intricate hand-sewn embroidery.

Moumani, echoing the sentiment of countless Jordanians, emphasized that the Crown Prince belongs to all, declaring him "the son of all Jordanians".

Overwhelmed with elation, she said, "We have long awaited this moment, thirsting for joy. We, as a simple and resilient people, embrace the celebration wholeheartedly, even amidst challenging circumstances."


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