President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu departed for the State of Qatar on an official visit on Tuesday to offer condolences following the passing of former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

According to the President's Office, the visit is being undertaken on behalf of the people of the Maldives and the president to convey sympathies to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar, the Royal Family, and the people of Qatar following the death of the former ruler.

The visit comes as foreign leaders and dignitaries from around the world are expected to travel to Qatar to join the Royal Family in mourning the late former emir.

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani served as the Emir of Qatar from 1995 to 2013, overseeing a period of rapid economic growth and national transformation.

During his 18-year reign, Qatar emerged as one of the world's wealthiest countries, driven by the expansion of its liquefied natural gas industry and the establishment of the Qatar Investment Authority, which became one of the region's leading sovereign wealth funds with significant global investments.

He also played a prominent role in strengthening Qatar's international profile by supporting major diplomatic initiatives and positioning the country as a host for global events.

His leadership contributed to Qatar securing the 2006 Asian Games and the 2022 FIFA World Cup, while the country also became an active mediator in regional peace efforts, including the Doha Agreement.

In 2013, Sheikh Hamad voluntarily transferred power to his son, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who continues to serve as the Amir of Qatar.