• Former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani dies at 74.
• Sheikh Hamad played a pivotal role in transforming Qatar into a global player.
• His abdication in 2013 marked a historic peaceful transfer of power.
• Leaders worldwide express condolences and honor his legacy.

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar, has died at the age of 74, according to Al Jazeera. The Amiri Diwan announced his passing on July 12 and expressed deep sorrow, stating, “With hearts steadfast in faith in God’s decree and destiny, we mourn 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.”

During his rule from 1995 to 2013, Sheikh Hamad transformed Qatar into a significant player in global affairs, enhancing its diplomatic, media, and economic stature. He was instrumental in establishing Qatar as a major exporter of liquefied natural gas, which significantly boosted the country's economy, reports South China Morning Post and Le Monde.

Sheikh Hamad's tenure included significant milestones such as launching Al Jazeera in 1996 and adopting Qatar's first permanent constitution in 2004, which included provisions for women's voting rights. His leadership also oversaw Qatar’s successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup amidst criticism regarding various reforms, as noted by Middle East Eye and India Times.

The peaceful transfer of power when Sheikh Hamad abdicated in favor of his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, was a significant event, marking a rarity in the region's leadership transitions. Sheikh Hamad described this as allowing “young leadership” to take charge of the country’s future, as reported by Al Jazeera and Middle East Eye.

Global leaders have expressed their condolences. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Sheikh Hamad’s contributions to Qatar's development and the broader Arab world, as noted in reactions reported by Al Jazeera and South China Morning Post.