Queen Rania makes emotional visit to Qatar after death of former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani

Queen Rania of Jordan traveled to Qatar on Wednesday to personally offer her condolences following the death of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the country’s former Emir and father of the current ruler.

The Queen visited Al Wajba Palace in Doha, where she met with Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser to express her sympathies after the passing of her husband.

According to a statement released by the Royal Hashemite Court, Queen Rania conveyed her heartfelt condolences to Sheikha Moza and extended her sympathies to the entire Al Thani family as well as the people of Qatar. She also offered prayers for the late Sheikh Hamad, asking that his soul rest in peace.

The visit came as Jordan continues to observe a period of official mourning following Sheikh Hamad’s death. King Abdullah II and Crown Prince Hussein also traveled to Doha earlier this week to offer their condolences on behalf of the Hashemite Kingdom.

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For the solemn occasion, Queen Rania chose an elegant black mourning ensemble that reflected the respectful tone of the visit. The Jordanian royal wore a long-sleeved, floor-length black dress, keeping the look understated and appropriate for the occasion.

She completed the ensemble with her signature chestnut hair styled in loose waves with a center part, while her makeup remained natural, featuring softly defined eyes and neutral-toned lips.

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Her appearance reflected the dignity of the occasion, emphasizing compassion and respect during a moment of mourning.

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani served as Emir of Qatar from 1995 until his voluntary abdication in 2013, when he transferred power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. 

© KHALED MOUFTAH

During his nearly two decades in power, he oversaw Qatar’s rapid modernization and helped establish the Gulf nation as a major diplomatic, economic and global media player.

Queen Rania’s visit came as leaders and members of royal families from around the world continue offering condolences following the death of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

© Anadolu

Jordan has declared four days of official mourning, while King Abdullah II and Crown Prince Al Hussein have also extended their condolences, with the Crown Prince traveling to Doha on behalf of the Hashemite Kingdom to pay his respects. 

Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, likewise visited Qatar on behalf of King Charles III to convey the British royal family’s condolences. 

Remembering Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani:

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani served as Emir of Qatar from 1995 to 2013, overseeing a period of rapid modernization that transformed the country into a major diplomatic and economic force. 

In 2013, he made the rare decision to voluntarily abdicate the throne in favor of his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, becoming one of the few modern Arab leaders to peacefully transfer power.