Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, widely known as the father emir of Qatar, has passed away at the age of 74. He ruled the Gulf nation for 18 years, from 1995 until his abdication in 2013, when he stepped aside to allow his son, Sheikh Tamim, to assume the role of emir. His death has prompted widespread condolences from global leaders, who have also praised his significant legacy and the substantial growth Qatar experienced during his reign. Sheikh Hamad's period of leadership was marked by significant developments in Qatar, and his passing marks the end of an era for the country. His influence and the foundations he laid continue to be relevant to Qatar's current standing on the global stage.