Princess Muna Al Hussein

Princess Muna al‑Hussein (born Antoinette “Toni” Lidi, 25 May 1941) is a former member of the Jordanian royal family. She was born in Bulawayo, Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) to a Sudanese father, Abdallah El‑Hussein Saad, and a British mother, Violet Lidi. In 1961 she met King Hussein of Jordan while he was studying at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, and they married in a civil ceremony on 25 August 1961. Upon her marriage, she was given the title “Princess Muna al‑Hussein,” with “Muna” being an Arabic name meaning “wish” or “desire.”

During her marriage, Princess Muna gave birth to four children:

  • Abdullah II (born 30 January 1962), who succeeded his father as King of Jordan in 1999.
  • Prince Faisal (born 11 October 1963).
  • Princess Aisha (born 11 April 1968).
  • Princess Zein (born 18 April 1969).

The marriage was dissolved by divorce on 21 December 1972. Following the divorce, Princess Muna retained her title and continued to be involved in charitable and social work in Jordan, particularly focusing on issues related to women’s welfare, children’s health, and education. She has served as a patron of several non‑governmental organizations, including the Jordanian Association for the Protection of the Environment, the King Hussein Cancer Center, and various initiatives promoting early childhood development.

Although no longer a consort, Princess Muna remains a respected senior member of the Jordanian royal family, frequently appearing at official ceremonies and honoring her contributions to public life. Her public profile is characterized by a low‑key presence and dedication to humanitarian causes.

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