Maldives flies flag at half-mast for a day in mourning former Qatar Amir

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has ordered the national flag to be flown at half-mast for one day in mourning His Highness late Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, former Amir of Qatar.

According to the President’s Office, the national flag will be flown at half-mast from 12:00pm Monday to 12:00pm Tuesday.

The President’s Office stated that the decision reflects the enduring close relations and friendship between the Maldives and Qatar. It added that the gesture honors Sheikh Hamad’s longstanding friendship with the Maldives during his tenure and recognizes his generous assistance and continued support toward the country’s development and progress.

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani passed away on Sunday morning at the age of 74. He was laid to rest later that day with full state honors.

President Muizzu departed for Qatar this morning to attend the official funeral proceedings and convey condolences in person.

In a condolence message, President Muizzu praised Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani’s visionary leadership and highlighted his significant role in guiding Qatar’s transformative development and advancement.

During his reign, Qatar experienced significant economic, social, and cultural development, strengthening its standing within the international community.

He also oversaw major economic investments and expanded the country's international partnerships, while guiding Qatar's emergence as the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani was also the driving force behind one of the world’s biggest media outlets, ‘Al Jazeera’.