Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar, was a visionary leader whose legacy includes the founding of the Al Jazeera Media Network. Under his guidance, Al Jazeera became a groundbreaking news channel that introduced independent journalism to the Arab world.
One day, Sheikh Hamad summoned me to his home and shared his plan to establish a television news channel named Al Jazeera. He envisioned a network with a wide margin of freedom, distinct from the existing Arab media landscape. It would operate on principles of free journalism, akin to professional international media institutions.
Construction began near Qatar Television, and the building was equipped with broadcasting and satellite communication equipment. The newsroom was prepared to welcome journalists. Sheikh Hamad closely followed the progress of the project, offering encouragement despite his heavy involvement in state affairs after taking power just months earlier.
A Board of Directors was formed, and a director general was appointed. Recruitment of journalistic and technical staff commenced. The channel adopted the slogan “The Opinion and the Other Opinion” and started trial broadcasts.
In late November 1996, the first half-hour news bulletin aired, marking a departure from the norm. Initially, broadcasting lasted six hours per day. Success was evident early on as journalists and the public began talking about a new voice unlike anything in the Arab world.
Sheikh Hamad visited the channel but never interfered in coverage or programming, as long as professional rules were followed. This strengthened the team's sense of belonging and conviction that Al Jazeera was a national project aimed at conveying the truth, regardless of hardships.
The channel faced opposition and pressure from Arab and international spheres due to its independent editorial policy. However, Sheikh Hamad did not yield, driven by his belief in free media. His support served as a protective umbrella, reinforcing the team's spirit and commitment.
His vision proved true. Despite facing attacks over the years, Al Jazeera continued its independent mission. Its impact grows daily, changing concepts, broadening culture, and shifting media equations worldwide. Today, the network leads in both traditional and digital media.
Among all projects established by Sheikh Hamad, Al Jazeera held a special place. In my final meeting with him, despite his failing health, he asked about the channel's current state and future, just as he did with other national projects.
His son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, succeeded him as emir. During one of Qatar's most difficult periods, he faced pressures to alter the network's approach but refused any interference in editorial policies. He does not intervene as long as professional rules and ethics are maintained.
This is the story of Al Jazeera's inception with its visionary founder, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa, up until his passing. It is not the complete history but one chapter of a tale that continues to inspire. Sheikh Hamad dedicated his life to serving his nation, and Al Jazeera stands as a globally acclaimed success story.
May God have mercy on Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa—human, father, and leader—and protect Emir Sheikh Tamim and Qatar.
This piece was first published on Al Jazeera Arabic.