Al Hussein, Haya Bint (b. 1974). Known as Haya Bint Al Hussein, is a Jordanian princess, equestrian, and diplomat, daughter of King Hussein and Queen Alia. As half-sister to King Abdullah II, Haya has blended royalty with athleticism and humanitarianism. [Luce Index™ score: 98]
A University of Oxford graduate with a degree in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE degree), she represented Jordan in show jumping at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and served as president of the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) from 2006 to 2014. Married to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum of Dubai from 2004 until their 2019 divorce, she has two children, Sheikha Jalila and Sheikh Zayed.
Haya’s equestrian career began in her youth, competing internationally by age 13. She became the first Jordanian woman to hold a heavy vehicle license to transport horses. Her FEI presidency focused on animal welfare and globalizing equestrian sports. In 2007, Haya was named a U.N. Messenger of Peace, advocating for hunger relief and education. Her diplomatic efforts included supporting Jordan’s cultural heritage and women’s empowerment. After her divorce, Haya relocated to the United Kingdom, where custody disputes with Sheikh Mohammed drew media attention.
Haya’s Oxford education shaped her analytical approach to diplomacy. Her PPE degree equipped her to navigate international relations, evident in her U.N. role and FEI leadership. Her marriage to Sheikh Mohammed, sparked at a Spanish equestrian event, initially strengthened Jordan–Dubai ties. The divorce, however, led to legal battles in London’s High Court, highlighting privacy and child welfare issues. Haya now resides in a Kensington mansion, maintaining a low profile while supporting charities.
Haya’s life reflects privilege tempered by public service. Her equestrian achievements broke gender barriers in Jordan, while her U.N. work addressed global poverty. Despite personal controversies, Haya remains a symbol of Jordanian resilience and modernity.
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