Jordan's Prince Ali has decided to cancel his wedding reception and give the money to the country's needy instead.
King Abdullah's half-brother, who got engaged to former CNN reporter Rym Brahimi last April, is planning to make his vows next Tuesday. But instead of staging a banquet to mark the big day, they will use the money set aside to help feed some of Jordan's poorest communities.
"The wishes of Ali ibn al-Hussein and Miss Rym Brahimi are not to hold a wedding reception," revealed the royal palace. "Therefore His Majesty King Abdullah II, the dean of the Hashemite family has ordered the distribution of food aid to 1,000 poor families over the next six months. Food distribution will begin today in the governorates and (Palestinian refugee) camps."
The gesture will come as a surprise to royal watchers, but the couple is already well-known for their commitment to social causes. During her time as CNN's Baghdad correspondent, Rym earned a reputation as one of the broadcaster's most dedicated reporters.
News of their decision comes hot on the heels of Abdullah and Rania's announcement that they are to become parents for the fourth time. The king and queen of Jordan announced on Monday they are expecting their new arrival next March.
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