Former Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Dies at 74

The government of Qatar announced the passing of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir, who died at the age of 74. A statement from the Emir’s Bureau mourned the “great loss to the nation.”

Sheikh Hamad was instrumental in shaping modern Qatar, ascending to power in June 1995 through a bloodless coup that removed his father from leadership. His tenure is largely credited with transforming the nation’s economy, leveraging its vast natural gas reserves to establish Qatar as a prominent global player.

During his rule, Qatar saw the establishment of Al Jazeera, which became a major international broadcasting entity. Furthermore, Sheikh Hamad founded the Qatar Investment Authority, fueling foreign investments in various global businesses, including notable acquisitions like the department store Harrods and the football club Paris Saint-Germain.

His leadership era also coincided with Qatar securing the rights to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup in 2010, an achievement that brought both prestige and significant controversy. The bid faced allegations of corruption, and the subsequent construction of infrastructure raised concerns regarding the treatment and deaths of migrant workers.

Internationally, tributes poured in. King Charles and Queen Camilla acknowledged Sheikh Hamad’s “distinguished service” and “vision.” Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi remembered him as a “visionary leader” and a “true friend.”

Sheikh Hamad voluntarily stepped down in 2013, handing power to his son, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Funeral prayers are scheduled, followed by several days of national mourning, during which flags will be flown at half-mast and public institutions will observe closures.

Source: Nile Post