Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar who oversaw the country's rapid modernization and rise as a global energy and diplomatic power, died on July 12, 2026, at the age of 74. The cause of death has not been officially disclosed, but state media reported he passed away peacefully surrounded by family.
Born in 1952, Hamad bin Khalifa seized power in a bloodless coup against his father in 1995. As emir until his abdication in 2013, he launched Qatar's massive liquefied natural gas (LNG) export industry, making the small Gulf state one of the world's richest per capita. He also founded the Al Jazeera media network and positioned Qatar as a key mediator in regional conflicts.
Sheikh Hamad was known for his close ties to Morocco, frequently visiting the country and investing in its tourism and real estate sectors. He owned a large estate in the Marrakech region and was a patron of Moroccan cultural events. Moroccan King Mohammed VI declared three days of national mourning following his death.
His son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, succeeded him as emir in 2013 and continues to lead the country. The late emir's funeral was held on July 13 in Doha, attended by regional leaders and dignitaries.
