The Government of India has officially declared a one-day national mourning on Monday, July 13, 2026, following the death of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, the Father Amir of the State of Qatar. The 74-year-old former leader, who played a pivotal role in transforming Qatar into a global economic powerhouse, passed away on Sunday. As a mark of respect, the Indian national flag will be flown at half-mast across the country on all government buildings where it is regularly displayed. Additionally, all official entertainment events scheduled for the day have been canceled.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, describing Sheikh Hamad as a visionary leader who guided Qatar toward significant development and prosperity. The Prime Minister also remembered him as a true friend of India, noting their meeting during his visit to Qatar in February 2024. To convey India's formal condolences to the Qatari leadership and the royal family, the government is sending Kiren Rijiju, the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, to Qatar.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani served as the Amir of Qatar from 1995 until his abdication in 2013, when he handed power to his son, the current Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. During his tenure, he oversaw massive investments in natural gas, establishing Qatar as a leading exporter of liquefied natural gas. His leadership also saw a substantial increase in the Indian expatriate community in Qatar, which remains a vital link between the two nations. Qatar has announced its own four-day period of public mourning to honor his legacy.