Qatar’s flag flying at half mast at the Flag Plaza on the Corniche in Doha yesterday, July 14, 2026. Pictures by: Rajan Vadakkemuriyil/The Peninsula
Doha, Qatar: A profound sense of unity, reflection and gratitude continued to envelop Qatar yesterday as the country observed the second day of national mourning following the passing of the Father Amir, H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, whose visionary leadership transformed the nation into a globally respected hub of diplomacy, education, economic prosperity and innovation.
Across the country, flags remained at half-mast, while government institutions, public entities and private organisations continued to honour the late Father Amir’s memory. The atmosphere in Doha and other parts of the country reflected a shared sense of loss, with residents and citizens alike paying tribute to a leader widely regarded as one of the architects of modern Qatar.
Condolence messages continued to pour in from around the world, underscoring the immense international respect H H Father Amir commanded throughout his decades of public service. World leaders, heads of state, international organisations and diplomatic missions expressed their sympathies to the Amir
H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Al Thani family and the people of Qatar, while highlighting the Father Amir’s lasting contributions to regional peace, humanitarian efforts and global development.
Within Qatar, majlis gatherings and condolence meetings remained active as people from all walks of society came together to offer prayers and share memories of a leader whose vision shaped the country’s remarkable journey over the past three decades.
Many reflected on H H Father Amir’s pivotal role in steering Qatar through an era of unprecedented transformation. During his leadership, the country witnessed rapid economic diversification, world-class infrastructure development, major investments in education and healthcare, and the emergence of globally recognised institutions that continue to define Qatar’s international standing.
Residents noted that the Father Amir’s commitment to investing in people remains one of his most enduring legacies. The establishment of Education City, the expansion of higher education opportunities, support for scientific research and the development of cultural institutions laid the foundation for a knowledge-based economy that continues to flourish today.
His leadership also elevated Qatar’s role on the international stage. Through active diplomacy, mediation initiatives and humanitarian assistance, the country earned recognition as a trusted partner in promoting dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution across different regions of the world.
Public spaces throughout the country reflected the solemn mood. Electronic billboards displayed messages of condolence, while many businesses and organisations adapted their public communications to honour the national period of mourning. Social media platforms were filled with tributes from citizens, residents and visitors, many sharing photographs, personal reflections and messages expressing appreciation for the Father Amir’s vision and service to the nation.
For many younger Qataris, the occasion also served as a moment to reflect on the remarkable transformation they had witnessed throughout their lives. Older generations recounted memories of a rapidly developing nation that evolved into one of the world’s leading economies, while younger citizens expressed gratitude for the opportunities created through decades of strategic planning and investment.
The country’s multicultural community also joined in expressing condolences, highlighting the inclusive environment that has enabled millions of expatriates from diverse nationalities to contribute to Qatar’s development over the years. Community leaders from various cultural and professional groups praised Father Amir’s legacy of openness, stability and progress.
Meanwhile, Qatar’s embassies around the world continued to receive delegations signing books of condolence and conveying messages of sympathy. Diplomats, government officials, members of royal families and representatives of international organisations paid tribute to the Father Amir’s statesmanship and his role in strengthening bilateral relations with countries across the globe.
