Qatar's former emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani has died at 74, according to a statement from the royal court released on Monday.
Leadership and legacy
Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 until his abdication in 2013, when he handed power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani. During his reign, he oversaw the country's rise as a major global energy player, leveraging its vast natural gas reserves.
He was known for modernising Qatar's economy and boosting its international profile, including the establishment of the Al Jazeera news network, which gained worldwide recognition.
Reaction and succession
His death was announced by the royal court, and tributes are expected from regional and international leaders. His son, Sheikh Tamim, has been in power since 2013 and continues to lead the country.
