Qatar's former Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani passes away at 74

CAIRO – 12 July 2026: Qatar's former Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, died on Sunday at the age of 74, according to a statement issued by the country's Amiri Diwan.

"With hearts believing in Allah’s will and decree, the Amiri Diwan mourns the nation's great leader, His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away this morning," the statement said.

The Amiri Diwan also prayed for Allah’s mercy on the late Father Amir and praised his lasting contributions to Qatar and the Arab and Islamic nations.

Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 until 2013, when he abdicated in favor of his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the current Amir of Qatar.

Credited with transforming Qatar into a major regional and global player, Sheikh Hamad oversaw sweeping economic and infrastructure development fueled by the country's vast natural gas wealth, while expanding its diplomatic influence and international profile.

The Amiri Diwan declared four days of national mourning beginning Sunday, with flags to be flown at half-mast across the country throughout the mourning period.

Funeral prayers for the late Father Amir will be held after the Maghrib prayer on Sunday at Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque in Doha, after which he will be laid to rest at Lusail Cemetery.

The Amiri Diwan said Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani will receive heads of state, members of the ruling family, dignitaries and citizens offering condolences at Lusail Palace from Monday to Wednesday, from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM and after the Asr prayer until the Isha prayer.