India Declares National Mourning For Former Qatar Amir Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani

The Government of India has declared a one-day national mourning on July 13 as a mark of respect following the demise of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Father Amir of the State of Qatar, who passed away on Sunday.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), all buildings across India that regularly display the National Flag will fly it at half-mast, and all official entertainment will remain suspended during the day of mourning.

Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju will likely visit Qatar shortly to convey condolences on behalf of the Indian government.

Earlier on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences on the passing of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, describing him as a visionary leader who led Qatar to remarkable development and prosperity and as a true friend of India.

PM Modi also extended condolences to Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the royal family and the people of Qatar.

We deeply mourn the passing of Father Amir of State of Qatar, HH Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. A visionary leader who led Qatar to great levels of development and prosperity, we remember him also as a true friend whom I had the honour of meeting during my last visit to Qatar…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 12, 2026

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani served as Qatar’s Amir from 1995 to 2013 before handing over power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

During his tenure, Qatar witnessed significant economic, social and cultural development while strengthening its position in the Arab world and the international community, according to the Amiri Diwan.

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