Funeral prayers for Qatar’s former leader, Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, took place in Doha following his death on Sunday morning at the age of 74.
Sheikh Hamad ruled the Gulf state from 1995 to 2013. During his tenure, he utilized the nation’s extensive natural gas reserves to transform Qatar into an international economic and political power.
The ceremony was held after the Maghrib evening prayer at the Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque. The current Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, attended the proceedings and carried the shrouded body alongside close family members. Sheikh Hamad will be interred at Lusail Cemetery in a simple Islamic burial.
Following his passing, the Amiri Diwan declared a four-day national mourning period beginning Sunday. All operations across ministries, government agencies, and public institutions are suspended starting Monday. Work schedules will resume on Sunday, July 19.
Flags are flying at half-mast throughout the country. Sheikh Tamim will receive formal condolences from visiting heads of state and other dignitaries at Lusail Palace from Monday through Wednesday.
International leaders extended tributes on Sunday. The United Kingdom’s King Charles, United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, and the Indonesian Foreign Ministry issued formal statements regarding his death.