ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Government has announced a day of national mourning on Monday following the death of former Qatari emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, according to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division.
Former Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani died at the age of 74, the country’s Emiri Diwan, the official royal court, announced on Sunday.
“With hearts steadfast in faith in God’s decree and destiny, the Bureau of the Emir mourns the great loss to the nation of the late — may God have mercy on him — His Highness the Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani,” a statement issued by the emir’s office said.
According to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed that a national day of mourning be observed across the country on Monday (July 13).
As part of the observance, the national flag will fly at half-mast throughout Pakistan as a mark of respect for the late former Qatari ruler.
The notification stated that Pakistan stands in solidarity with the government, royal family and people of Qatar during this time of grief and extends its heartfelt condolences over the passing of the former emir.
The Cabinet Division has formally issued the notification regarding the national day of mourning.
Pakistan’s top leadership express condolences
Pakistan’s top leadership has expressed profound grief over the passing of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, paying tribute to his visionary leadership and extending heartfelt condolences to the Qatari leadership, the Al Thani family and the people of Qatar.
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed grief over the death of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and extended heartfelt condolences to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Government of Qatar and its people.
The president paid tribute to the late Emir’s visionary leadership and his valuable contributions to Qatar’s progress, development, regional peace and cooperation.
He prayed that Allah Almighty grant the departed leader the highest place in Jannah and bless his family and the people of Qatar with patience to bear the irreparable loss.
President Asif Ali Zardari has expressed deep grief over the passing of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, former Emir of the State of Qatar.
The President extended his heartfelt condolences to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Government and the…
— The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) July 12, 2026
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a statement posted on X, conveyed condolences on behalf of the Government and people of Pakistan as well as on his own behalf to Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Al Thani family, the Qatari government and the brotherly people of Qatar.
The prime minister described the late Sheikh Hamad as a great leader and statesman whose wisdom, foresight and commitment to public service transformed Qatar into a modern, prosperous and globally respected nation.
He said the former Emir’s contributions to the welfare of his people, regional peace, development and international cooperation would be remembered for generations.
Prime Minister Sharif said Pakistan stood in solidarity with Qatar during this period of mourning and would always cherish Sheikh Hamad’s warmth, kindness and affection for Pakistan, as well as the memories of his numerous visits to the country.
Deeply saddened by the passing away of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Former Amir of the State of Qatar.
The Father Amir, late Sheikh Hamad was a great leader and statesman whose wisdom, foresight and dedication to public service, transformed Qatar into a…
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) July 12, 2026
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also expressed deep sorrow over the former Emir’s passing. In a message on X, he extended condolences to the Al Thani family, the Emir of Qatar, the government and the people of the Gulf state.
Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, former Emir of the State of Qatar.
During his reign, he played a pivotal role in Qatar’s modern development and in strengthening the bonds of friendship with Pakistan. His visionary…
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) July 12, 2026
Ishaq Dar said Sheikh Hamad played a pivotal role in Qatar’s modern development and significantly strengthened the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and Qatar.
He added that the late leader’s visionary leadership and contributions to regional peace would be remembered for years to come, while praying for the departed soul and the bereaved family.
