Former Qatar Ruler Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Dies
WebDesk
12 July, 2026 07:59
Qatar on Sunday announced the death of its former ruler, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who served as the country’s emir from 1995 until 2013.
In a statement shared by the Amiri Diwan on social media, the office of the emir expressed deep sorrow over his passing, saying the nation mourned the loss of the late Emir and prayed for God’s mercy upon him.
Widely regarded as one of the principal architects of modern Qatar, Sheikh Hamad oversaw a period of remarkable economic expansion and elevated the Gulf nation’s regional and global influence during his 18-year rule.
He assumed power in June 1995 after peacefully removing his father from office while he was abroad. At the time, Qatar was a relatively small and financially constrained state, but under his leadership it emerged as a prominent international player.
One of the landmark developments during his tenure was the launch of the international news network Al Jazeera in 1996, established through an emiri decree.
In June 2013, Sheikh Hamad made history by voluntarily handing over power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, becoming the first modern Arab ruler to step down in favour of his heir through a peaceful transition.
Read More: Iran Strikes Multiple US Military Bases Across Middle East After Fresh American Attacks
Pakistan’s top leadership extended condolences following the former emir’s death. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, President Asif Ali Zardari and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar conveyed sympathies to the Al Thani family, Qatar’s emir, and the government and people of Qatar.
In a message posted on X, Prime Minister Shehbaz described Sheikh Hamad as an outstanding leader and statesman whose vision, wisdom and commitment to public service transformed Qatar into a prosperous and globally respected country. He said the late leader’s contributions to national development, regional peace and international cooperation would be remembered for generations, adding that Pakistan would always cherish his warm friendship and affection for the country, as well as the memories of his numerous visits.
Deputy Prime Minister Dar also praised Sheikh Hamad’s role in modernising Qatar and strengthening bilateral relations with Pakistan, saying his visionary leadership and efforts for regional stability would leave a lasting legacy.
President Zardari paid tribute to the former emir’s forward-looking leadership, acknowledging his significant contributions to Qatar’s progress as well as to peace and cooperation across the region.
Qatar, home to nearly three million people—most of them expatriate workers—is among the smallest Arab nations. It remained a British protectorate for 55 years before gaining independence in 1971 and has been governed by the Al Thani family since the mid-19th century.
Must Read
