Crown Prince Abdullah bin Hussein assumed the throne as the King of Jordan after the death of his father, King Hussein, on February 7, 1999. King Hussein, who reigned for nearly five decades, was a highly influential leader known for his efforts in fostering peace in a tumultuous region and his steadfast alliance with Western powers. Upon King Hussein's passing, Abdullah, who had been groomed for kingship, vowed to uphold his father's vision for Jordan and to address both internal reforms and external diplomatic challenges.

The ascension ceremony took place soon after the announcement of King Hussein's death. Abdullah was immediately recognized and sworn in as king, where he addressed the nation and the international community, expressing a commitment to continue the policies of peace and development initiated by his father. His ascension marked the continuation of the hereditary monarchy that has been in place since Jordan's establishment. Abdullah's leadership began during a time of uncertainty, as the Middle East was dealing with issues such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the broader ramifications of the Gulf War.

In the subsequent years, Abdullah focused on economic reform and political modernization, working to shape Jordan's future through initiatives aimed at enhancing democracy and social welfare. His reign is characterized by efforts to navigate the complexities of Jordan's relationships with its neighbors, including Israel and the Palestinian territories, while addressing domestic public demands for greater freedom and economic opportunities.