Former Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani has died at the age of 74, the country’s government announced on Sunday.
In a statement, the Emir’s office expressed condolences over the passing of the former ruler, describing his death as a great loss to the nation. Funeral prayers are scheduled for Sunday evening, while Qatar has declared several days of national mourning, with government offices and public institutions closed and flags flown at half-mast.
Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013, after assuming power in a bloodless coup that removed his father from office. He is widely regarded as the architect of modern Qatar, overseeing the country’s transformation into one of the world’s wealthiest nations through the development of its vast natural gas resources.
During his reign, Qatar emerged as a global leader in liquefied natural gas exports, established the Qatar Investment Authority to expand its international investments, and launched the Al Jazeera television network in 1996, which became one of the Middle East’s most influential media organisations.
His tenure also saw Qatar secure the hosting rights for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and increase its regional influence through diplomatic and development initiatives, including infrastructure projects in Gaza.
In 2013, Sheikh Hamad made history by voluntarily abdicating in favour of his son, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, marking a rare peaceful transfer of power in the modern Arab world.