Jul 12, Kathmandu - Qatar’s former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani has died, according to official sources from the Qatari Diwan. The 74-year-old, father of the current Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, passed away on Saturday morning.

In mourning of Al Thani’s demise, Qatar has announced a four-day state mourning period starting from Monday. The national flag will be flown at half-mast during this time.

Sheikh Hamad served as the ruler of Qatar from 1995 to 2013, overseeing significant economic, social, and cultural development. His leadership is credited with modernizing the nation and establishing a progressive constitutional framework.

During his reign, Qatar adopted its first permanent constitution in 2004, which granted women voting rights and the ability to stand for elections—marking a milestone in the country’s advancement.

In 2013, Sheikh Hamad abdicated the throne in favor of his 33-year-old son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who has since been leading the nation.