Saudi Leadership Expresses Sympathy to Qatar's Emir
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud offered his condolences to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, on the passing of his father Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar. The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported the news on July 12, 2026.
In a statement, King Salman said: "We received with profound sorrow the news of the passing of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of the State of Qatar, may God have mercy on him. He gave so much to his homeland and its people. As we extend to Your Highness, your family, and the brotherly people of the State of Qatar our deepest condolences and sincere sympathies, we pray to Almighty God to envelop him in His vast mercy and forgiveness, grant him a place in His spacious Paradise, inspire you with patience and comfort, and protect you from all harm. Indeed, to God we belong and to Him we shall return."
Crown Prince Also Sends Condolences
Crown Prince Prince Mohammed bin Salman also sent his condolences and sympathy to the Al Thani family. His message read: "I received with profound sadness and sorrow the news of the passing of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of the State of Qatar, may God have mercy on him. He played a prominent role in the progress and prosperity of the brotherly State of Qatar. I extend to Your Highness and to the family of the deceased my heartfelt condolences and sincere sympathies, praying to Almighty God to envelop him in His boundless mercy and forgiveness, grant him a place in His spacious Paradise, reward him abundantly for what he gave to his people and his country, and protect you from all harm. Indeed, He is All-Hearing and Ever-Responsive."
Sheikh Hamad's Legacy
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani served as Emir of Qatar from 1995 until his abdication in 2013. He was known for modernizing the country and expanding its influence on the global stage. His death prompted condolences from regional leaders, highlighting the close ties between Saudi Arabia and Qatar despite past diplomatic tensions.
