President Dr Mohamed Muizzu departed for the State of Qatar on Monday morning to pay his respects following the death of former Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

During the visit, President Dr Muizzu is expected to convey condolences to Qatar's Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and the Royal Family, joining other foreign dignitaries travelling to Doha to mourn the late former ruler.

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who died on Sunday at the age of 74, ruled Qatar from 1995 until his abdication in 2013 and is widely credited with transforming the country into a major global economic and diplomatic power.

A day earlier, President Dr Muizzu sent a message of condolence to Sheikh Tamim, describing the former Amir as a leader whose legacy extended beyond Qatar and acknowledging his contribution to strengthening Maldives-Qatar relations. The President highlighted Sheikh Hamad's role in the launch of Qatar Airways operations in the Maldives and the establishment of Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani School and Masjid Al Sheikh Qasim Bin Al Thani, both of which continue to serve the Maldivian people.