Qatar's former Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, whose leadership transformed the Gulf nation into a global political, economic, and diplomatic force, has died at the age of 74, the country's Amiri Diwan announced on Sunday.

In a statement, the Amiri Diwan expressed condolences over the passing of the former ruler.

"The Amiri Diwan announced the death of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani on Sunday morning. May Allah have mercy on his soul and grant him the best reward for what he achieved for his homeland and nation," the statement said.

Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013, overseeing one of the most significant periods of transformation in the country's modern history. He stepped down voluntarily in June 2013, transferring power to his son, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in a rare and peaceful succession among Gulf monarchies.

During his 18-year reign, Sheikh Hamad spearheaded sweeping political, economic, and infrastructure reforms that reshaped Qatar from a relatively modest Gulf state into one of the world's wealthiest nations on a per-capita basis. His administration accelerated the development of Qatar's vast natural gas reserves, helping establish the country as the world's leading exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and strengthening its influence in global energy markets.

Sheikh Hamad also elevated Qatar's international profile through ambitious diplomatic initiatives and strategic investments around the world. Under his leadership, the country emerged as a prominent mediator in regional conflicts and expanded its global economic footprint through the Qatar Investment Authority, which invested billions of dollars in major companies, infrastructure projects, and real estate across Europe, Asia, and North America.

One of the defining achievements of his tenure was the launch and expansion of the Al Jazeera Media Network, which became one of the most influential international news organizations in the Middle East and beyond. His government also secured the successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, making Qatar the first Arab nation to stage the tournament.

Despite its relatively small population of just over 2.5 million people, Qatar developed into a major regional and international actor under Sheikh Hamad's leadership, leveraging its energy wealth, diplomacy, and global investments to expand its influence.

Sheikh Hamad came to power in 1995 after peacefully deposing his father, Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani, in a bloodless palace coup while the latter was abroad. His decision to abdicate in favor of his son in 2013 was widely viewed as an effort to ensure long-term political stability and a smooth transition of leadership.

Following the announcement of his death, messages of condolence began arriving from leaders across the Gulf region and the wider international community, many praising his contributions to Qatar's development and his role in shaping regional diplomacy.

Qatari authorities are expected to announce official mourning arrangements and funeral prayers in the coming hours. Flags are expected to be flown at half-staff, while state institutions are likely to observe a period of national mourning in honor of the late Father Emir, whose legacy remains deeply intertwined with Qatar's rise on the global stage. (ILKHA)