Qatar's former emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who transformed the nation into a significant regional power, has died at the age of 74, the country's Amiri Diwan announced on Sunday.
Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 until his abdication in 2013, transferring leadership to his son, Sheikh Tamim, the current head of the gas-rich Gulf state. The Amiri Diwan's statement conveyed condolences, stating, "The Amiri Diwan announced the death of HH the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani on Sunday morning. May Allah have mercy on his soul and grant him the best reward for what he achieved for his homeland and nation."
During his tenure, Sheikh Hamad significantly elevated Qatar's international standing. Key initiatives included the establishment and development of the Al Jazeera television network and the successful campaign to secure the hosting rights for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Despite its small population of over 2.5 million, Qatar, a close U.S. ally, has become the world's foremost exporter of liquefied natural gas. It is also recognized as a major global investment hub and a key player in Middle East diplomacy and international media operations.
In a notable event for a hereditary Gulf Arab ruler, Sheikh Hamad voluntarily handed over power to his son, then the crown prince, in June 2013, aiming to ensure a stable succession. His own ascent to power in 1995 involved a bloodless coup against his father.
