Former Qatar Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani dies aged 74

Former Qatar Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani dies aged 74
Qatar's Emir Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani smiles upon his arrival at Houari Boumediene Airport in Algiers, 7 January 2013.
Reuters

Qatar is mourning the death of its former ruler, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who has passed away at the age of 74. 

The country's Amiri Diwan announced his passing on Sunday, describing it as a profound loss for the nation.

In a statement, the Amiri Diwan said, “With hearts steadfast in faith in God’s decree and destiny, the Amiri Diwan mourns the great loss to the nation of the late – may God have mercy on him – His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away this morning.”

Sheikh Hamad, who ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013, is widely credited with laying the foundations of the modern state.

During his 18-year reign, he transformed the small, gas-rich nation into a globally recognised economic and diplomatic power, overseeing rapid development and raising Qatar's profile on the international stage.

His vision helped shape the country's future, leaving a legacy that continues to influence Qatar long after his time in office. Tributes are expected to pour in as the nation remembers the leader who played a pivotal role in its modern history.

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