description Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Overview
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani is a member of Qatar's ruling Al Thani dynasty who served as Emir of Qatar from 1995 until his abdication in 2013. He seized power from his father in a bloodless palace coup and oversaw the rapid expansion of Qatar's liquefied natural gas industry, transforming the country into one of the wealthiest nations per capita. His tenure also included the founding of Al Jazeera in 1996 and Qatar's successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He transferred power to his son, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in June 2013.
help Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani FAQ
When did Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani serve as the Emir of Qatar?
Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani ruled as the Emir of Qatar from 1995 until he voluntarily abdicated the throne in 2013. He took power in 1995 by deposing his father, Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani, in a bloodless coup.
What major global media network was established during his reign?
He is heavily credited with financing and founding the Al Jazeera Media Network, which launched in 1996. This move completely transformed Qatar into a highly influential media hub in the Middle East.
How did Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani transform Qatar's economy?
During his rule, Qatar massively expanded its natural gas production, particularly through the state-owned QatarEnergy. This effectively transformed the country into one of the wealthiest nations per capita in the world.
Who succeeded Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani as Emir?
He transferred power to his fourth son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in June 2013. This peaceful, voluntary transition of power was notably rare in the Arab world.
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