Exit of a Legend: Qatar and Arab world mourn the demise of a legendary father at 74
The State of Qatar and the wider Arab world are in a deep state of mourning following the passing of the nation's beloved former ruler, His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Affectionately regarded as the architect of modern Qatar, Sheikh Hamad passed away peacefully on the morning of Sunday, July 12, 2026 , at the age of 74. The Amiri Diwan announced his death with "hearts steadfast in faith in God’s decree," though an official cause of death was not publicly specified. The government has declared four days of official national mourning , with flags flying at half-mast and work suspended in ministries and public state institutions. Burial Rites and Official Mourning In keeping with Islamic tradition, funeral prayers for the late Father Amir were held swiftly following the Maghrib (evening) prayer on Sunday, July 12, at the Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque in Doha. The late leader was laid to rest at the Lusail Cem...
