Thousands gather in Doha to bid farewell to Qatar's former Emir Sheikh Hamad

Thousands of residents and officials gathered in Doha on Saturday to bid farewell to Qatar’s former ruler, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, often referred to as the “Father Emir.” The crowd assembled at the Al Rayyan Stadium, where a public ceremony marked the end of his official engagements following his abdication in 2013 after an 18‑year reign that saw the nation’s rapid economic growth and the launch of major international projects.

The event featured remarks from current Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who thanked his father for “laying the foundations of modern Qatar,” and included a military salute and a traditional music performance. Dignitaries from several Gulf Cooperation Council states and other foreign missions were present, underscoring Sheikh Hamad’s regional influence. As the farewell concluded, organizers indicated that the former leader will continue to serve in an advisory capacity, while the nation looks ahead under the ongoing leadership of the current Emir.