8 Things You Don't Know About Qatar's Emir

June 3rd is the birthday of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, and he will turn 43 this year. And to find out more about him on his birthday, read this article.

Here are 8 things you don't know about Qatar's Emir:

His Education

HH Sheikh Tamim was educated in the United Kingdom. He attended the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst, and graduated in 1998.

As Heir Apparent

HH Sheikh Tamim was appointed as Heir Apparent on August 5th, 2003, when his elder brother Sheikh Jassim renounced the title. Over the next decade, he held a series of important economic, diplomatic, and national security positions. 

Taking The Reins as The Emir

HH Sheikh Tamim officially became the 8th Emir of Qatar on June 25, 2013, following His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani's decision to hand over his power.

Youngest Reigning Monarch

As of 2020, HH Sheikh Tamim was recognized as the youngest reigning monarch among the GCC countries and one of the youngest current sovereigns worldwide at the age of 40.

Serving Diverse Roles

He has served in a number of diverse roles, including President of the Qatar National Olympic Committee and Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

His Involvement in Sports

During his years as a prince, HH Sheikh Tamim promoted sport as part of Qatar's bid to raise its international profile. He also supervised Qatar's successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He also orchestrated Qatar's purchase of the Paris Saint-Germain football club.

Also, he was once filmed playing badminton and bowled with former Egyptian military chief Mohammed Hussein Tantawi. 

His Hobbies

Besides his love for sports, HH Sheikh Tamim also has a strong interest in history and his nation's heritage. His hobbies also include falconry.

Fluency in Languages

HH Sheikh Tamim is fluent in three languages; Arabic, English, and French.