Muscat – His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik has sent a cable of condolences to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, following the death of his father Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

In his message, His Majesty expressed his deepest condolences and sincere sympathy to the emir, the Al Thani family and the people of Qatar. He prayed to Almighty God to grant the late emir His abundant mercy and forgiveness, admit him to paradise, and bestow patience and solace upon his family.

Sheikh Hamad died on Sunday at the age of 74, according to a statement issued by Qatar. Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 until his voluntary abdication in 2013, presiding over a transformative period that saw the country emerge as one of the world’s wealthiest nations through the development of its vast natural gas resources.

During his 18-year reign, Qatar expanded its regional and international influence while pursuing sweeping political, economic and social reforms. His leadership saw the adoption of the country’s first permanent constitution, the introduction of municipal elections, and greater political participation for women through voting and candidacy rights.

He also laid the foundations for many of Qatar’s flagship institutions and development projects, helping establish the country as a leading centre for diplomacy, education, investment and international sport.

In 2013, Sheikh Hamad made the rare decision to voluntarily transfer power, handing the reins of government to his son, Sheikh Tamim, then aged 33.

His passing marks the end of a defining chapter in Qatar’s modern history. Widely regarded as the architect of the country’s transformation, Sheikh Hamad leaves behind a legacy that reshaped Qatar’s position on the regional and global stage.