Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the visionary leader who transformed Qatar into a major force in global diplomacy, media and finance before voluntarily handing power to his son, has died at the age of 74, according to state media.

The state-run Qatar News Agency announced Sheikh Hamad’s death but did not disclose the cause.

Sheikh Hamad served as emir for 18 years before stepping down in June 2013, becoming one of the few Gulf rulers to voluntarily transfer power to the next generation.

During his reign, he oversaw Qatar’s rapid transformation from a relatively obscure Gulf state into one of the world’s most influential nations through its vast natural gas wealth and ambitious foreign policy.

Under his leadership, Qatar emerged as a global diplomatic hub, expanded its international investment portfolio and established the influential Al Jazeera satellite television network.

The country also invested heavily overseas, acquiring high-profile assets including London’s iconic Harrods department store.

Sheikh Hamad’s policies elevated Qatar’s global profile, with the country playing key diplomatic roles in conflicts stretching from North Africa to Afghanistan.

His vision also helped secure Qatar’s successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the world’s most-watched sporting event.

Although no longer in power, Sheikh Hamad received a standing ovation from Qatari spectators during the tournament’s opening match, reflecting his enduring popularity at home.

His independent foreign policy, however, often placed Qatar at odds with some regional and Western allies.

During his leadership, Doha maintained close relations with Iran while also engaging with groups such as Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood, positions that drew criticism from several neighboring countries.

Despite those controversies, Sheikh Hamad is widely credited with reshaping Qatar’s international standing and laying the foundation for the country’s emergence as a significant diplomatic, economic and political player on the global stage.