Qatar has announced the death of former emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who ruled the Gulf state from 1995 to 2013. He was 74.
“With hearts steadfast in faith in God’s decree and destiny, the Amiri Diwan mourns the great loss to the nation,” the emir’s office said in a statement on Sunday. No cause of death was immediately given.
Sheikh Hamad is widely regarded as one of the main architects of modern Qatar. During his 18-year rule, the country used its vast natural gas wealth to accelerate development, expand its international influence and establish itself as a centre for diplomacy, media and global investment.
Under his leadership, Qatar pursued an increasingly independent foreign policy and became involved in mediation efforts across the Middle East and beyond. Doha’s political reach later extended from North Africa to Afghanistan, strengthening the country’s position as a regional diplomatic hub.
The international broadcaster Al Jazeera was launched in 1996 following a decree issued by Sheikh Hamad. The network became one of Qatar’s most prominent global institutions and significantly expanded the country’s media influence.
In June 2013, Sheikh Hamad voluntarily handed power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in a rare transfer of authority among Gulf monarchies. Despite stepping away from formal leadership, he remained a prominent national figure and was known as the Father Emir.
He received a warm public reception during the opening match of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which Qatar hosted as the first Arab country to stage the tournament.
His death marks the passing of the leader credited with transforming Qatar from a small Gulf state into a major international player.
