A wave of international leaders and dignitaries has arrived in Doha as Qatar observes a four-day national mourning period for the late Father Emir Sheikh Hamad, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 74. Among the first European heads of government to visit Lusail Palace was Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who met with Sheikh Tamim to convey her condolences.
The gathering reflects the significant global influence of the former ruler, who is widely remembered as the architect of modern Qatar. Throughout his reign from 1995 to 2013, Sheikh Hamad oversaw a period of rapid economic, diplomatic, and cultural transformation. He was instrumental in developing one of the world's largest liquefied natural gas industries, establishing the nation's role as a key international mediator, and securing the rights to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Notably, he was one of the few Gulf leaders to oversee a peaceful, voluntary transfer of power to his son in 2013.
Regional and global leaders shared tributes to his legacy. Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev lauded Sheikh Hamad as an outstanding statesman whose leadership fundamentally transformed his country. Rwandan President Paul Kagame also traveled to Doha, describing the late Emir as a visionary leader whose commitment to international friendship and cooperation would endure for generations.
Condolences were also offered by a wide array of officials, including Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, and Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch. FIFA President Gianni Infantino visited Lusail Palace as well, expressing that the late Emir had taught him that bravery involves embracing change. Infantino, who has often referred to Qatar as his second home, stated he felt Qatari while joining those mourning the former ruler who he credited with shaping the nation into a great power.
