Alaa is a recipient of a scholarship from Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST). He is currently being supervised by Dr Paul Jennings, Professor Just Stoelwinder, and A. Professor Karen Smith. Alaa is collaborating with the 'Access to care' project, which is an NHMRC funded project that aims improve the outcomes of patients with SCI. The project is under the direction of A. Professor James Middleton, who has joins the supervisors' team as well.

Alaa was originally trained as a physiotherapist in Jordan. After he finished his BSc degree, he worked in rehabilitation and physiotherapy education/training. Then, he received a scholarship to complete his paramedic training and Master's in Emergency Health Services from the University of Maryland Baltimore County UMBC, USA.

He has previously worked for JUST as the Director and a full time lecturer for the Paramedic Program. He also was entitled as the legislative officer for The Jordanian Ministry of Health as well as the Jordanian Civil defence.