Qatar’s former Emir Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani passes away

DOHA: Qatar’s former ruler Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani has passed away Sunday morning. He was 74. The death was officially announced by the Amiri Diwan, Qatar's highest government institution. The cause of his death is unknown.

The country has declared an official mourning following the death of Sheikh Hamad. Sheikh Hamad, who ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013, played a key role in transforming Qatar into a globally influential country by harnessing its natural gas wealth. He is known as the architect of modern Qatar.

During Sheikh Hamad's reign, the country made great progress in the areas of economic growth, education, infrastructure and investment. The world-famous news network Al Jazeera began operating during his reign. His leadership also paved the way for preparations for hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Municipal elections, which gave women the right to vote and run, were also introduced during his reign. In a departure from traditional methods, Sheikh Hamad set an example by voluntarily handing over power to his thirty-three-year-old son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in 2013.