Key moments from former Qatar Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani’s life - Al Jazeera
Former Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, has passed away at age 74. Known as the 'Father Emir,' he is credited with transforming Qatar into a global economic power through the development of its natural gas industry.
Why it matters
His leadership fundamentally reshaped Qatar's economy and geopolitical influence, making him a pivotal figure in modern Middle Eastern history.
Sheikh Hamad’s 18-year rule catapulted Qatar to prosperity and reshaped the Gulf country’s domestic, regional and global footprint.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Then-Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani addressing the first meeting of his cabinet in Doha, Qatar, October 30, 1996 [Reuters] By Priyanka Shankar Published On 12 Jul 2026 12 Jul 2026 The architect of modern Qatar , former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, has died at the age of 74.
Fondly known as Father Emir, Sheikh Hamad, who ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013 , leaves behind a legacy that includes sweeping economic, social and cultural reforms in Qatar, raising the Gulf country’s profile on the regional and global stage.
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