Former Qatar Leader Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Passes Away at 74

The former leader of Qatar Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, passed away on Sunday morning at the age of 74.

In an official statement, the Amiri Diwan announced that the historic leader died on July 12, corresponding to 27 Muharram 1448 AH. Sheikh Hamad served as the Emir of Qatar for 18 years, from 1995 until his voluntary abdication in 2013. He is credited with the modern transformation of the nation before handing power to his fourth son, the current Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

His reign was defined by Qatar’s emergence as a major global player. Under his leadership, the country hosted landmark events, including the 2006 Asian Games and the 2012 UN Climate Change Conference. He was also a key figure in regional diplomacy, facilitating the Doha Agreement and the Fatah–Hamas Doha Agreement. Most notably, he led the successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the first time the tournament was held in the Middle East.

The Amiri Diwan paid tribute to his "enduring deeds" for the nation and the wider Arab and Islamic world, offering prayers for his soul and calling for patience and solace for the nation.