Qatar has bid farewell to Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir and one of the country’s most influential leaders, whose decades-long legacy helped shape modern Qatar into a global political and economic force.
Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani led funeral prayers and burial ceremonies attended by senior officials, members of the ruling family, and thousands of mourners. Several countries expressed their condolences, while the United Arab Emirates declared three days of official mourning and lowered flags to half-mast in solidarity with Qatar.
Leader of a Historic Transformation
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani assumed leadership in 1995, ushering in an era of rapid modernization and ambitious national development.
Under his leadership, Qatar transformed into one of the world’s leading exporters of liquefied natural gas (LNG), invested heavily in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and research, and strengthened its position as a key regional and international diplomatic player.
His vision also contributed to expanding Qatar’s global investment portfolio and supporting major educational and cultural initiatives that continue to shape the country’s future.
A Peaceful Transfer of Power
In 2013, Sheikh Hamad made a historic decision by voluntarily handing power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, becoming one of the few Arab leaders to oversee a peaceful and voluntary transition of leadership. Since then, he has held the title of Father Amir.
Funeral Attended by National Leaders
The funeral was led by Amir Sheikh Tamim and attended by members of the royal family, senior government officials, and large crowds of citizens and residents who gathered to pay their final respects to a leader widely credited with transforming Qatar’s modern history.
Condolence delegations and officials from across the Arab world and beyond also extended their sympathies, reflecting Sheikh Hamad’s respected regional and international standing.
UAE Declares Three Days of Mourning
The United Arab Emirates announced three days of official mourning and ordered flags to be flown at half-mast in honor of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, expressing solidarity with Qatar and its people during this period of grief.
A Lasting Legacy
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani is remembered as the driving force behind Qatar’s modern renaissance. His leadership laid the foundations for the country’s economic prosperity, diplomatic influence, educational advancement, and long-term development strategy.
His passing marks the end of a defining chapter in Qatar’s history, but his vision and achievements continue to shape the nation’s present and future, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond its borders.
