Published：Jul 12, 05:18Last updated：Jul 12, 08:17

Former Qatari Emir Hamad Dies at 74

Jul. 12, 2026 05:18

Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar, passed away at the age of 74. He ruled Qatar for 18 years and is considered the founder of modern Qatar.

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Jul. 12, 2026 07:54

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former ruler of Qatar, has died at the age of 74. He ruled the Gulf country from 1995 to 2013 before voluntarily stepping down in favor of his son, Sheikh Tamim. His death was reported on July 12, 2026. Sheikh Hamad was instrumental in modernizing Qatar and elevating its global profile. His legacy includes significant economic and social reforms.

Jul. 12, 2026 08:17

Qatar's former leader Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani, who ruled from 1995 to 2013, passed away on Sunday. The Qatari government announced his death in a statement, mourning the loss of a key architect of modern Qatar. Under his leadership, Qatar experienced rapid economic growth and launched Al Jazeera in 1996. His contributions significantly shaped the nation's development. The emir's office expressed deep sorrow and requested prayers for the late leader.

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar who transformed the nation into a global diplomatic and economic powerhouse, has died at the age of 74. The Emiri Diwan confirmed his passing on July 12, 2026, though no cause of death was disclosed. Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013 before voluntarily stepping down in favor of his son, Sheikh Tamim. RIA Novosti+2

🌍 Architect of Modern Qatar

Hamad is widely credited with modernizing Qatar from a quiet backwater to an influential international crossroads. His 18-year reign saw the country achieve rapid economic growth and establish itself as a key player in global affairs. Major initiatives included launching Al Jazeera in 1996 and implementing sweeping social reforms. The Independent+2

👑 Leadership Transition

In a rare move for the region, Hamad peacefully transferred power to his son Tamim in 2013. This marked the first voluntary abdication in the Gulf Arab states in modern history. The succession was seen as a stabilizing moment for Qatar's political continuity. Huanqiu+2

🕊️ Global Tributes

The Qatari government expressed deep sorrow over Hamad's death, requesting prayers for the late leader. International observers noted his role in elevating Qatar's profile through strategic investments and mediation efforts in regional conflicts. His legacy includes transforming Doha into a hub for education and culture. The Korea Times+2

📈 Economic Transformation

Under Hamad's leadership, Qatar leveraged its natural gas reserves to build one of the world's highest per-capita GDPs. The country became a major investor in global real estate and sports, including hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup. These moves cemented Qatar's position on the world stage. The Independent+2

QatarAl JazeeraEmiri DiwanTamim bin Hamad Al ThaniHamad bin Khalifa Al Thani