The United Kingdom looks forward to working with H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani as he assumes his new role as Emir of the State of Qatar.
I wish to thank H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani for the friendship and support that he and the people of Qatar have offered the United Kingdom under his leadership. Our relationship is stronger than ever and the British government looks forward to enhancing it further under the leadership of H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
British Foreign Secretary William Hague
Dr Abdullah Saleh Al Khulaifi, Chairman of the Permanent Constitution Committee
The Emir has made history by handing over power to the Heir Apparent. He was always keen to give opportunity to the new generation and this move will bring major changes in the international level.
He has given a big lesson in democracy and leadership, given that he is still young compared to many of his counterparts in other countries. Sheikh Tamim is the best successor of the best predecessor. He is concerned about the citizens and the nation and he will complete the steps taken by the Emir to further raise the position of Qatar in the world.
Saud bin Abdullah Al Hanzab, Chairman, Central Municipal Council
This is a nice way (of transfer of power) and a first in Arab and Islamic history. This is to give a chance to the new generation to realise their vision and ambition. We would like to say we are loyal to you.
Jassim Al Malki, CMC Vice Chairman
This is the best example of transferring power in a civil way. This reflects his political insight, and through this gesture he has given a lesson to all the rulers. He has also given an opportunity to the young generation to realise their vision for the country and the citizens.
Sheikha Al Jefairi, CMC member
The Emir took the country to great heights and the new Emir has the vision to continue this.
Dr Hanan Al Kuwari, managing director, Hamad Medical Corporation
This is a smooth transfer of power in Arab history. The developments initiated by the Emir in education, health and economy will continue. Sheikh Tamim is young and he has lot of fresh ideas.
Nasser Ali Al Mawlawi, president, Public Works Authority (Ashghal)
This is an unprecedented step and his decision reflects how much he loved this land and its people. Sheikh Tamim will build a bridge between the past and present to make Qatar an advanced country. In the coming years we will witness new developments in different sectors.
Dr Ameena Al Emadi, Qatari businesswoman
The Emir from the beginning stood with the Arab Spring and has now heralded a new spring in Qatar by handing over power to his son. He modernised this small emirate and made it an Arab icon and a political hub.
Dr Hassan Al Sayed, former dean of Faculty of Law at Qatar University
An Arab ruler handing over power to the young generation is a historical move. This is the epitome of democracy that gives an opportunity to the Qatari youth to meet the challenges of modern era.
Dr Hind Al Muftah, Qatari businesswoman
This is an unprecedented decision amid the Arab Spring and political instability in the region. Transferring power to the capable youth will help develop the country and the new Emir will follow the path of his father. This heralds a new era for Qatar.
Yousuf Al Zaman, Qatari lawyer
The laws issued during the time of the Emir were a guarantee for freedom of the individual and Qatar has become a leading country that respects human rights of citizens and expatriates. We are sure Sheikh Tamim will do everything to preserve this freedom.
Khalid Fakhroo, senior official of Qatar Charity
What we witness today is a celebration of democracy and we pray God will bless the new Emir to follow his father’s footsteps. Our happiness is mixed with sadness because of our outgoing leader.
Ahmed Al Jolo, president, Qatar Engineers Association
This transfer of power gives the young generation the chance to complete the development process started by the Emir and take it further ahead in all sectors.
Hassan Rasheed, Qatari writer
This decision will be crucial for future of the country that is witnessing development in all sectors and this will give a push to the young generation to lead the country in all sectors.
Mohammed Al Qahtani, Qatari businessman
Qatari citizens are very optimistic about this change and the new leadership and they are praying God to bless the new leader to serve the country by all means.
