Doha, 12 July 2026

Qatar is mourning the passing of the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, whose death was announced by the Amiri Diwan this morning of Sunday, 12 July 2026. He was 74.

In an official statement, the Amiri Diwan paid tribute to the late Father Amir as the "great leader of the nation," remembering his extraordinary service to Qatar and his lasting contributions to the Arab and Islamic worlds. The statement offered prayers for Allah to grant him mercy, forgiveness, and the highest place in Paradise, while extending heartfelt condolences to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Al Thani family, and the people of Qatar. It concluded with the Quranic verse: "Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed, to Him we will return."

The Amiri Diwan announced that funeral prayers for the late Father Amir would be held after Maghrib prayer on Sunday at Imam Muhammad bin Abdulwahhab Mosque in Doha, followed by his burial at Lusail Cemetery. His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani will receive condolences from heads of state, members of the ruling family, dignitaries, and citizens at Lusail Palace from 13 to 15 July, with sessions scheduled in both the morning and evening.

Sheikh Hamad's passing marks the conclusion of a golden chapter in Islamic history and the closing of one of the most transformative and defining eras in Qatar's modern history. Widely regarded as the architect of the country's remarkable transformation, he led Qatar through a period of unprecedented economic growth, institutional development, and rising international influence.

Born in Doha in January 1952, Sheikh Hamad received his early education in Qatar before graduating from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom in 1971. Upon returning home, he joined the Qatar Armed Forces and steadily rose through the ranks. He was appointed Chief of Staff in 1972 before becoming Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. In 1977, he was named Heir Apparent and Minister of Defence, assuming increasing responsibilities in national planning and governance over the following years.

Sheikh Hamad became Amir of Qatar on 27 June 1995. His leadership ushered in a new era of development that transformed the small Gulf nation into one of the world's most prosperous and influential states. Under his guidance, Qatar capitalised on its vast natural gas reserves, resulting in extraordinary economic growth and one of the highest per capita incomes globally.

His vision extended well beyond economic prosperity. In 1996, the launch of Al Jazeera fundamentally reshaped Arabic-language journalism and established Qatar as a major centre for international media. At home, Sheikh Hamad introduced gradual political reforms, including Qatar's first municipal elections in 1999, in which women were granted both the right to vote and to contest elections. His administration also oversaw the adoption of Qatar's first permanent constitution in 2004 and laid the foundation for the country's long-term development strategy through Qatar National Vision 2030.

Sheikh Hamad also strengthened Qatar's international partnerships and elevated its diplomatic profile. During his reign, Al Udeid Air Base developed into one of the most strategically important military facilities in the region, while Qatar emerged as a trusted mediator in regional and international affairs.

A key pillar of his economic legacy was the establishment of the Qatar Investment Authority in 2005. Under his leadership, the sovereign wealth fund expanded into one of the world's most influential investment institutions, acquiring significant stakes in leading international companies and iconic global assets while supporting Qatar's long-term economic resilience beyond the energy sector.

One of the defining milestones of his leadership came in 2010 when Qatar secured the right to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup—the first Arab and Muslim nation to stage football's biggest tournament. The achievement accelerated major investments in infrastructure, transport, tourism, and urban development, firmly placing Qatar on the global stage.

In a move that drew international attention, Sheikh Hamad voluntarily transferred power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, on 25 June 2013, describing the succession as a planned generational transition. Assuming the title of Father Amir, he remained a respected national figure while largely stepping away from public office.

Throughout his life, Sheikh Hamad received numerous international honours and was widely recognised as the visionary who laid the foundations of modern Qatar. Admired for his ambition, strategic foresight, and commitment to national development, his influence continues to shape the country's institutions, economy, and global standing.

His passing is being mourned across Qatar and beyond, with tributes recognising a leader whose legacy transformed a small Gulf nation into a confident and influential player on the world stage. His contributions to state-building, diplomacy, economic development, and regional engagement will remain an enduring part of Qatar's history for generations to come.