Qatar’s royal family mourns the loss of former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani at 74

The Qatari royal family has entered a period of mourning following the passing of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. The former Emir of Qatar died on Sunday morning at the age of 74, according to a formal announcement released by the Amiri Diwan, the nation’s royal court.

In the official statement, the royal court expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the man widely revered as the “Father Emir,” offering prayers for his eternal peace and praising his enduring contributions to both his home country and the wider Arab world. The palace did not state an official cause of death.

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Sheikh Hamad held power from 1995 until his historic decision to step down voluntarily in 2013. His abdication cleared the path for his son, the current ruler Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, to take the throne. Historically recognized as the architect of contemporary Qatar, the late Emir utilized the country’s vast energy resources to build a global economic juggernaut. He was also the mastermind behind the launch of the international news network Al Jazeera.

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An International Power Couple

Qatar’s rise on the world stage was driven by a formidable partnership between the late Emir and his second wife, Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. Standing out as one of the world’s most captivating royal consorts, Sheikha Moza bypassed traditional, behind-the-scenes roles to become the international face of her country.

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Through her diplomatic efforts, she built strong alliances with global heads of state, Western royal families, and political leaders. Beyond her statecraft, she became an absolute force in the fashion world. Celebrated for her sophisticated style, she seamlessly blended elite European haute couture with traditional Gulf modesty, consistently earning her a spot on global best-dressed lists.

The Next Generation

The late leader’s legacy continues through Sheikh Tamim, who has ruled the nation for over a decade. Sheikh Tamim graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, an elite institution traditionally favored by international royalty for military and leadership training.

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Condolences and tributes from global leaders and fellow royal houses continue to pour into Doha as the family prepares for the funeral proceedings.

Official Tributes and Funeral Protocol

In response to the historic loss, the Qatari government enacted an official four-day period of national mourning beginning Sunday. During this remembrance period, flags throughout the country, including those at foreign embassies and public buildings, are lowered to half-mast. Government offices and public institutions suspended normal operations starting Monday, July 13, to honor the late leader’s memory.

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The traditional funeral rites commenced on Sunday evening at Doha’s landmark Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque. Sheikh Tamim, alongside high-ranking members of the ruling family and state officials, gathered for the evening funeral prayers. Afterward, a private interment ceremony was held at the historic Lusail Cemetery, where the late leader was laid to rest.

Beginning Monday, July 13, the focus turns toward international diplomacy and global condolences. Over the next three days, Sheikh Tamim will host visiting monarchs, world leaders, and foreign diplomats at Lusail Palace, providing a formal space for the international community to offer their respects to the House of Thani.