Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani

Date of Birth: January 1, 1952

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Biography

Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani is a prominent Qatari royal and statesman who served as the Emir of Qatar from 1995 to 2013. He was born into the ruling Al Thani family, which has been the dominant force in Qatar since the mid-19th century. Hamad bin Khalifa was educated in the United Kingdom, attending the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. Upon his return to Qatar, he joined the military and quickly rose through the ranks. In 1995, Hamad bin Khalifa seized power from his father, Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani, in a bloodless coup. His reign marked a period of substantial economic growth and modernization for Qatar. Under his leadership, the country invested heavily in its natural gas industry, becoming one of the world’s largest exporters of liquefied natural gas (LNG). He also played a key role in establishing the Al Jazeera news network, which has significantly influenced media in the Arab world. Hamad bin Khalifa was instrumental in Qatar’s successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, making it the first Arab country to do so. He abdicated in 2013 in favor of his son, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, but he continues to wield significant influence in Qatari politics and global affairs.

5 Interesting Facts about Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani

1. Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani is credited with transforming Qatar into a major economic and political power in the Middle East.

2. He established the Qatar Foundation in 1995, which focuses on education, science, and community development.

3. Hamad is known for his role in mediating various regional conflicts, including those in Lebanon and Sudan.

4. During his reign, Qatar’s GDP per capita became one of the highest in the world.

5. He significantly expanded Qatar’s international influence through investments in sports, education, and media.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani

1. “We are a small country, but we have big dreams.”

2. “Education is the foundation of progress and development.”

3. “The future belongs to those who prepare for it today.”

4. “Qatar is committed to playing a constructive role in international affairs.”

5. “Our wealth is not in oil and gas alone, but in our people and their potential.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his wealth, Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani’s net worth was estimated to be around $2.4 billion.

Children

Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani has a total of 24 children from three different wives. His most notable children include: – Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the current Emir of Qatar. – Jasim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who was initially the heir apparent before his brother Tamim. – Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, who holds various prominent positions, including the CEO of the Qatar Foundation.