His Highness
Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani
Emir of the State of Qatar

Born in Doha in 1952.
Attended Primary and Secondary schools in Doha - Qatar.
He joined the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, and graduated in July 1971.

He joined the Qatari Armed Forces and progressed by steps.
He was then promoted to the rank of Major General and was appointed Commander-in-Chief of

the Qatari Armed Forces.

He played a major role in developing the Qatari Armed Forces,modernized existing units,increased
personnel and equipped them with modern weapons.
On May 31st, 1977 His Highness was appointed Heir Apparent and Minister of Defence.

His Highness was appointed Chairman of the Planning Council,which is considered the cornerstone in the building of a modern state.

He chaired the Higher Council for Youth Welfare since it was set up in 1979 until September 1991,

when the General Authority for Youth and Sports was established and a new full time Chairman was appointed. He gave much support and attention to youth and sports sector.

H.H.is the sponsor of civilian and military sports in Qatar.He established the first Military Sporting

Association which became member of the International Military Sporting Association.

H.H. supported the youth and sports sector out of his belief in the significance of the role played by this vital sector in the process of building and developing the society.

H.H. acceded to power on 27.6.1995.

H.H. was awarded decorations by a number of Arab and Foreign countries in appreciation of his
efforts to boost bilateral relations and promote cooperation with these countries.