Former Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad Al Thani dies at 74

Former Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin ⁠Khalifa Al Thani, has died at the age of ⁠74.

The country’s Amiri ⁠Diwan announced the development in a statement on Sunday.

“With hearts steadfast in faith in God’s decree and destiny, the Amiri Diwan mourns the great loss to the nation of the late – may God have mercy on him – His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away this morning,” the Amiri Diwan said.

Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013.

He was a key architect of the energy-rich country’s stunning ambitions.

During his reign, the country saw economic, social and cultural development that bolstered its status in the international community.