Qatar's former ruler Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani dies

Qatar's government announced Sunday the death of former ruler Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who led the Gulf Arab state from 1995 to 2013. The emir's office confirmed the news in a statement posted on social media. It mourned him as a great loss to the nation.

Who was Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani?

Sheikh Hamad was Qatar's ruler for eighteen years and is widely seen as one of the key architects of modern Qatar. He guided the country through a period of rapid economic growth. Under his leadership, Qatar grew from a small, cash-strapped emirate into a significant regional and international player.

How did Sheikh Hamad become Qatar's ruler?

Sheikh Hamad took power in June 1995 after overthrowing his father in a bloodless coup while his father was abroad. He inherited an emirate with nearly empty state coffers at the time. From that position, he set about building Qatar's modern economy and its regional standing.

What did Sheikh Hamad achieve during his rule?

Sheikh Hamad's tenure reshaped Qatar's role on the world stage. In 1996, he issued the decree that launched Al Jazeera, the broadcaster that would go on to become one of the most influential news networks in the Arab world. His economic policies also helped transform the country's global standing.

Why did Sheikh Hamad abdicate in 2013?

In June 2013, Sheikh Hamad voluntarily abdicated in favor of his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The handover was described as a first in the recent history of the Arab world, where rulers rarely step aside willingly. Qatar sits on the Arabian Peninsula and has a population of around three million, most of them foreign workers. The country was a British protectorate until 1971 and has been ruled by the Al Thani family since the mid-19th century.

How did Pakistan react to Sheikh Hamad's death?

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed condolences following the announcement. In a post on X, he said he was deeply saddened by Sheikh Hamad's death and called him a great leader and statesman whose leadership transformed Qatar into a modern, prosperous and globally respected nation.

Sharif extended condolences to Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Al Thani family, and the government and people of Qatar. He also recalled Sheikh Hamad's warmth, kindness and deep affection for Pakistan, along with his visits to the country.