Former Qatari Emir Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Dies at 74

Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar, passed away at the age of 74, the Qatari authorities announced on Sunday. Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 until June 2013, when he abdicated in favor of his son, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, citing concerns for the younger generation and health issues. His peaceful transfer of power was notable in the Arab world, where such transitions are rare.

During his 18-year reign, Hamad significantly shaped Qatar’s domestic and foreign policies. He was instrumental in hosting senior Hamas leaders in Doha after they were expelled from Syria around 2012, establishing Qatar as a key supporter of the group. Hamad also granted citizenship to Yusuf al-Qaradawi, a prominent Egyptian Islamist cleric linked to the Muslim Brotherhood, who lived in Qatar for many years. Under Hamad, Qatar expanded the international reach of Al Jazeera and strengthened ties with Turkey, including hosting Turkish forces in Doha.

Hamad’s tenure saw Qatar emerge as a major liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporter, fueling the country’s wealth and influence. Qatar Airways grew into a globally recognized airline, and Qatar secured the 2022 FIFA World Cup hosting rights amid controversies over corruption and labor conditions. Hamad’s personal fortune was estimated between $2 billion and $2.5 billion, while the Al Thani family and Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund control assets worth hundreds of billions.

Hamad also financially supported Hamas with hundreds of millions of dollars, including funding a hospital in Gaza named after him. His wife, Sheikha Mozah, mother of the current Emir Tamim, remains a significant figure in Doha, particularly in Qatar’s anti-Israel activities. Following Hamad’s death, the Qatari Emir’s office expressed prayers for his forgiveness, and Emir Tamim declared four days of national mourning.

Summary: Former Qatari Emir Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who ruled from 1995 to 2013 and transformed Qatar into a regional power, died at 74. He peacefully transferred power to his son Tamim and was known for supporting Hamas and expanding Qatar’s global influence. Qatar declared four days of mourning in his honor.