Embassy of Jordan
How did you start being a diplomat?
I started my career as a diplomat at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Jordan in 1984. My first post was as an attaché to Australia in 1987. In 1992, I was appointed to Abu Dhabi, UAE. Then, I returned to Jordan in 1996, I was honored to serve at the Royal Palace with the late King Hussein, God rest his soul. During 2000-2010, I was appointed at the Ministry of Interiors as Governor and Director of the Human Rights Department. I returned to foreign affairs in 2011 and was appointed Ambassador to Jordan in Morocco.
What were your thoughts when you were given the assignment to become the Ambassador to Saudi Arabia?
It was on honor to be appointed to such an important country. In Jordan, the diplomatic mission to Saudi Arabia is considered the highest and most important regional mission. Saudi Arabia has a big Jordanian community. Of course, this means a lot of work and long working hours where I have meetings with many different people from my country and the host country. I really enjoy being very active and sharing so many activities, dinners, lunches and celebrations with my colleagues in the diplomatic corps.
How are you enjoying your post to Saudi Arabia?
I was appointed to Saudi Arabia in 2017. I’ve been in Riyadh for one and a half year and I am enjoying my time in this country a lot. The people are very kind and we feel so close to them in so many ways.
Tell us your experiences being the Ambassador to Jordan in Saudi Arabia.
As an ambassador, I meet lots of people all the time during my working hours and definitely, also socially. I really appreciate and enjoy the hospitality of the Saudi people I have the opportunity to meet with.
Jordan and Saudi Arabia share quite an old and strong relationship, with very close ties by marriage and politics from ancient times. We have so much in common because both kingdoms are ruled by monarchs and we have very similar traditions. This makes bilateral communications much easier, and gives us both a great history to build more upon.
What is the most challenging part of being the ambassador to Saudi Arabia? What is the most rewarding?
Being a diplomat, and an Ambassador especially, is quite a long journey. It keeps you learning, enriching your life with experiences in all aspects. The diversity of different cultures also adds greatly to one’s personality. The most rewarding and challenging part of being an Ambassador is serving my country and community abroad in the best way I can. I concentrate on my work on solving my community’s issues according to the laws of the host country.
What are some of your favorite places to visit in Saudi Arabia?
My favorite place to visit in Saudi Arabia is definitely Mecca and Medina. Taif is also such a beautiful city and I really admire its famous beautiful roses. Khobar is also a very nice place that I like to visit quite a lot.
What are some of your favorite places to visit in Riyadh?
Riyadh is such a beautiful city, with very modern architecture and huge malls. I really like that Riyadh has a great choice of restaurants, I really enjoy the variety in restaurants and coffee shops.
One of the most exciting places to visit in Riyadh is Diriyah, it is such a nice authentic place to see and enjoy. My family and I enjoyed all the activities and concerts that recently took place this year. I am so happy for the progress of the courageous vision 2030 of Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman. I wish him and His majesty King Salman all the best and lots of progress.
What do you like most about the DQ?
The DQ is the best place one can live in Riyadh. I enjoy the privacy and peaceful atmosphere of the area, the beautiful gardens and greenery. It provides the best tracks to walk along which I enjoy a lot. It has lots of coffee shops and services around as well.
Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
PO Box 94316, Riyadh 11693
Contact Nos: 011-288-1920
Email: Riyadh@fm.gov.jo
