Key Takeaways
- Qatar's former emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, passed away at the age of 74.
- Pakistan will observe a day of mourning on Monday in honor of the late leader.
- Sheikh Hamad was known for transforming Qatar into a global economic power.
Qatar's government announced the death of former emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who led the country from 1995 to 2013. The news came on Sunday as he was 74 years old.
The Bureau of the Emir mourned the loss with a statement published on social media, describing him as one of the key architects of modern Qatar and praising his contributions during his tenure.
Qatar will observe several days of public mourning starting from Sunday evening. Government offices and public institutions will be closed, and flags will fly at half-mast to honor the late leader.
Pakistan has also announced a day of mourning on Monday in tribute to Sheikh Hamad. The national flag will be flown at half-mast across the country as a mark of respect.
During his rule, Sheikh Hamad oversaw significant economic growth and transformed Qatar into a major global player. He inherited a small emirate with nearly empty coffers but left behind one of the wealthiest countries in terms of GDP per capita.
Sheikh Hamad's legacy includes launching Al Jazeera in 1996, establishing the Qatar Investment Authority, and securing the rights to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He also funded projects in Gaza, including a hospital named after him.
The former emir took power through a bloodless coup against his father in 1995 and voluntarily abdicated in favor of his son Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in June 2013, marking the first such voluntary transfer of power by a hereditary Gulf Arab ruler.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep grief over Sheikh Hamad's passing. They extended heartfelt condolences to Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the government, and the brotherly people of Qatar.
