Qatar - Leadership

Under Sheikh Khalifa, Qatar experienced rapid social and economic change. His style of leadership was generally seen as conservative and cautious. As crown prince and deputy emir, Sheikh Hamad, on the other hand, was seen as more decisive and assertive, particularly on issues related to economic development and foreign policy. His leadership style is more open compared to other rulers in the region. As Sheikh Hamad was already responsible for day-to-day affairs prior to this formal rise to power, his rise to emir did not create any major discontinuities in Qatari politics. The emir seems to be taking various measures to foster the establishment of democratic institutions and a broader based political structure, as well as openness to global markets.