17:I[87134,["/_next/static/chunks/abf43a076ddbd945.js?dpl=dpl_F6KiLDDFSAiMcLzw3V2cQMgAbhkA","/_next/static/chunks/5ac73fe2b25fc6c9.js?dpl=dpl_F6KiLDDFSAiMcLzw3V2cQMgAbhkA","/_next/static/chunks/92bdbfeca3f655f7.js?dpl=dpl_F6KiLDDFSAiMcLzw3V2cQMgAbhkA","/_next/static/chunks/733be0453bf96ece.js?dpl=dpl_F6KiLDDFSAiMcLzw3V2cQMgAbhkA","/_next/static/chunks/27718c319dd13e9b.js?dpl=dpl_F6KiLDDFSAiMcLzw3V2cQMgAbhkA","/_next/static/chunks/34c922b381f458e9.js?dpl=dpl_F6KiLDDFSAiMcLzw3V2cQMgAbhkA","/_next/static/chunks/c85eefbddd563073.js?dpl=dpl_F6KiLDDFSAiMcLzw3V2cQMgAbhkA"],"default"] 18:T4ed,

Qatar's former emir, who transformed the nation from its Bedouin roots into a major regional force, passed away at age 74, according to an announcement from the country's Amiri Diwan on Sunday.

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani led Qatar between 1995 and 2013 before stepping down in favor of his son Sheikh Tamim, who now heads the energy-rich Gulf state.

The Amiri Diwan stated that HH the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani died on Sunday morning. May Allah grant him mercy and reward him for his contributions to his country and people, the statement added.

Elevating Qatar on the World Stage

Sheikh Hamad boosted Qatar's international standing in part through the successful campaign to host the 2022 soccer World Cup.

Though small with over 2.5 million residents, the country ranks as the top exporter of liquefied natural gas, a major global investor, and an influential player in Middle East diplomacy along with international media.

In a rare move for a hereditary Gulf ruler, Sheikh Hamad transferred authority to his son, then the crown prince, in June 2013 to ensure a stable transition. He had earlier seized power from his father in a peaceful coup during 1995.