Portraits of the Father Amir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani at some of Qatar’s iconic landmarks yesterday. Pic: Rajan Vadakkemuriyil/The Peninsula
Doha, Qatar: Long-term expatriates in Qatar have joined citizens in mourning the passing of the Father Amir, H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, paying heartfelt tribute to the visionary leader whose transformative policies helped shape the country into a thriving global hub and created opportunities for millions of people from around the world.
For many expatriates who have called Qatar home for decades, the loss of the Father Amir is deeply personal. They recall witnessing first-hand the nation’s remarkable journey of development under his leadership, from expanding infrastructure and world-class healthcare to educational excellence, economic diversification and international prominence.
Residents from diverse nationalities described the late Father Amir as a leader whose vision extended beyond physical development, fostering an environment where people from different cultures and backgrounds could live, work and contribute to the country’s growth.
Speaking to The Peninsula, several expatriates reflected on how dramatically Qatar evolved during the years of the Father Amir’s leadership.
“I arrived in Qatar more than 25 years ago and have seen an incredible transformation,” said Indian expatriate Rajesh Nair.
“The Qatar we see today is the result of long-term planning and visionary leadership. The Father Amir laid the foundation for everything that has made this country a model of development. His legacy will continue to inspire generations.”
An Algerian expatriate, Yacine Abdelkader, who has lived and worked in Qatar for many years, said the late leader’s commitment to progress created an environment where expatriates could pursue their careers while contributing to national development.
“Qatar became a land of opportunity for people from across the globe because of the vision of the Father Amir,” he said. “His leadership transformed the country into one of the safest and most prosperous places in the world. As expatriates, we are grateful for the opportunities we have enjoyed here and share in the nation’s grief.”
British engineer Michael Thompson, who has spent over two decades working on major infrastructure projects in Qatar, described the Father Amir as a statesman with an exceptional long-term vision.
“Many of the projects that define modern Qatar today began with strategic decisions made during his leadership,” he said. “He believed in investing in people, infrastructure and innovation. It has been remarkable to witness that vision become reality.”
Expatriates also praised the late Father Amir’s emphasis on education and knowledge-based development, noting that institutions established during his tenure helped position Qatar as a regional centre for research, higher education and innovation.
Many said his support for healthcare, transportation and public services significantly improved the quality of life for both citizens and residents, making Qatar one of the most attractive destinations for professionals and their families.
Members of the Filipino community recalled how successive waves of expatriate workers benefited from the country’s continued economic growth and expanding employment opportunities.
“The Father Amir created a nation that welcomed people from many countries,” said Filipino community member Maria Santos. “His vision gave countless families hope and stability. Today we stand together with the people of Qatar in mourning a truly remarkable leader.”
Business executives from the expatriate community also acknowledged the Father Amir’s role in establishing policies that encouraged investment, entrepreneurship and sustainable economic growth.
Several noted that Qatar’s emergence as a respected international player in diplomacy, humanitarian assistance, sports and culture reflected the foresight of the late leader, whose policies elevated the country’s standing on the global stage.
Community leaders said the Father Amir’s legacy extends beyond national development to the values of tolerance, coexistence and mutual respect that continue to define Qatar’s multicultural society.
Throughout the country, expatriates have been visiting condolence gatherings to express their sympathies and solidarity with the leadership and people of Qatar. Many also offered prayers for the late Father Amir, remembering him as a compassionate leader whose vision changed the lives of millions.
As Qatar observes a period of national mourning, long-term expatriates say they remain deeply appreciative of the opportunities they have found in the country and are united with Qataris in honouring a leader whose enduring legacy transcends borders and nationalities.
For many who have spent years building their lives in Qatar, the passing of H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani represents not only the loss of a visionary statesman but also the passing of a leader whose commitment to development, inclusion and human progress helped shape the nation they proudly call their second home.
