About Alumni1. Introduce yourself? I'm Nour Khrais, an entrepreneur from Jordan with over 25 years of experience in mobile game development and digital content creation. In 2003, I founded Maysalward, the first mobile game studio in the Middle East, to bring innovative, culturally relevant gaming experiences to the region. This journey began as a self-funded venture and has grown into a leading studio in the MENA market. Throughout my career, I've been honored with several awards, including the third-degree Medal of Excellence from King Abdullah II in 2017, the Centenary Medal in 2022, and international recognition with awards like the Mobile Legend Award in London in 2023 and the MENA Market Legend award in Dubai in 2024. These honors highlight my commitment to advancing the mobile gaming industry. Academically, I hold a Doctorate in World Trade, with a focus on culturalization and localization in games, a master's in international business and global marketing, as well as a diploma in mobile telecommunications and a BSc in Agriculture Engineering.
| 2. Share your fondest memory from your time at Jordan University? I was actually elected as the President of the Student Council, and that experience remains one of my strongest memories of collaboration and teamwork. Leading the council gave me the chance to work with students from all walks of life, each bringing unique perspectives and ideas. We tackled issues that mattered to the student body, organized events, and advocated for meaningful changes that improved the university experience for everyone. This role taught me the power of working as a group and the importance of listening to others' ideas. It was my first real experience with leadership and collaboration, setting the foundation for the way I approach teamwork and collective problem-solving today.
| 3. In one word, how would you describe Jordan University? Transformative.
| 4. Explain how your experiences at UJ shaped you? My experiences at Jordan University were incredibly shaping because the university itself was a microcosm of Jordan's broader society, bringing together people from diverse social, political, and economic backgrounds. Being immersed in such a varied environment taught me how to be an integral part of a community that, in many ways, mirrors the structure of Jordan as a whole. Serving as the Faculty Student Council President, I had the chance to work with my council board colleagues and students from all parts of the country, each with unique perspectives, values, and concerns. Navigating this diversity taught me how to communicate across different viewpoints, adapt to different needs, and find common ground. I learned the importance of inclusivity and collaboration—values that have been essential in my career, especially today as I lead teams and work on projects that impact a wide range of people.
| 5. Discuss what fascinated you about your chosen course of study? In Agriculture Engineering, I was especially captivated by entomology and the intricate world of insects. The vibrant colors, the precision of their movements, and the complex mechanics of how they operate in nature really drew me in. Observing these details sparked a fascination with design and systems—qualities and small details that I've carried into my career as a game designer. The way insects interact with their complex social structure like in case of ants and beess with their environment, often as part of a larger ecosystem, taught me a lot about creating engaging and balanced experiences. It also showed me how even the smallest details can make a big impact, which is a mindset I bring into every game I design. In a way, my studies helped me bridge my love for natural mechanics and my passion for technology, which I now get to share through interactive, immersive games.
| 6. Offer advice to graduating students preparing to enter the workforce? To graduating students entering the workforce, my advice is to be adaptable and keep learning. The world is changing quickly, and industries are evolving unexpectedly. Be open to gaining new skills and experiences, even if they are outside your main field—they can become valuable assets. Collaboration is also important. Your success often depends on how well you work with others. Build relationships, find mentors, and learn from people with different viewpoints. Teamwork can create opportunities that technical skills alone cannot. Finally, stay resilient. You will face challenges and setbacks, but each one is a chance to grow. Keep your goals in mind, but don't hesitate to take different paths; sometimes, those unexpected routes lead to the best experiences.
| 7. Reflect on what you wish you had known during your time as a student? I wish I had understood the true value of real-world experience while I was a student. Practical skills gained through internships or hands-on projects can powerfully enhance academic knowledge and have a lasting impact on one's future, regardless of career path. There's no need to rush through in four years or overload yourself with heavy semester hours—instead, focus on gaining meaningful experience along the way.
| 8. Identify the person who has had the greatest impact on your career? Three people who have greatly impacted my career are my first manager, Bashar Dahabra, at a leading Jordanian technology company. He was a tough but shrewd business person, and I learned a lot from his planning and negotiating skills. My colleague Mohd Ersan, also known as Javatizer, the CTO of the company, enhanced my technical knowledge and taught me how to think like a developer. Lastly, my late father, an architect by education with an entrepreneurial spirit, showed me the importance of collaboration and trying new things, which I believe are key to success.
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