Qatar's former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani passed away on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at the age of 74. In an official statement, the Emiri Diwan said, "With hearts believing in God's decree and destiny, the Emiri Diwan announces the passing of the Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, may God have mercy on him, the great loss of the nation, on the morning of Sunday, 27 Muharram 1448 AH, corresponding to July 12, 2026, at the age of 74."
The statement added, "May God treat the nation's great loss with His vast mercy, place him in the spacious gardens of His Paradise alongside the prophets, the truthful, the martyrs, and the righteous, grant him the best reward for his great and enduring services to his nation and the Arab and Islamic Ummah, and bestow upon us all patience and fortitude."
Funeral and burial proceedings
According to a second statement from the Diwan, Sheikh Hamad's funeral prayer was performed at the Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque in Doha following the evening prayer on Sunday. His body was later buried at the Lusail Cemetery.
Condolences reception begins
Qatar's current Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani will receive condolences from national leaders, members of the ruling family, dignitaries, and citizens at Lusail Palace on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. The condolence reception will be held in the morning from 08:00 to 11:30 local time, and in the evening from the Asr prayer until the Isha prayer.
Four-day mourning declared
A four-day general mourning was declared in the country starting Sunday, and flags were lowered to half-mast at all public institutions and organizations. Furthermore, work at ministries, government offices, and public institutions was suspended from Monday, July 13. Officials will return to duty on Sunday, July 19.
Years in power
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani assumed power in 1995 and handed over the reins to his son, then Crown Prince Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, on June 25, 2013. During his tenure, Qatar underwent significant transformations in energy and foreign policy.
