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.
Tributes have poured in from leaders around the world following the death of Qatar’s former emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, at the age of 74.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev was among the first to offer his condolences, describing Sheikh Hamad as “a great leader of his people who left an indelible mark on the history of the State of Qatar”.
He also praised his “exceptional contribution” to strengthening relations between Azerbaijan and Qatar, adding, “The cherished memory of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani will always live in our hearts.”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Sheikh Hamad as a “visionary leader”, while Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said he was “one of those rare leaders who changed the course of his Nation’s history”.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan praised his efforts to strengthen ties between Türkiye and Qatar and his commitment to “the peace of the Islamic world” and the prosperity of the Qatari people.
Messages of condolence also came from Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Malaysia, Pakistan, Lebanon, Libya, Syria and the Arab League, with leaders expressing their support for Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Al Thani family and the people of Qatar.
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