Sheikha Al Mayassa, a prominent figure in Qatar’s cultural and public spheres, has issued a heartfelt tribute to her late father, reflecting on his legacy and enduring influence on the nation. In her remarks, she highlighted the personal values and guiding principles instilled in her by her father, known affectionately as “Yuba,” a figure whose leadership has left a profound imprint on Qatar’s development.
Sheikha Al Mayassa described her father’s guiding motto as “The measure is Qatar,” a phrase underscoring his commitment to serving the country without personal gain, ego, or recognition. According to her, this principle shaped his approach to governance and public life, where the interests of Qatar and its people consistently came before all else. She recounted how her father’s dedication blurred the lines between official duties and family time, with state affairs continually occupying his thoughts.
Her father is credited with transformative leadership that propelled Qatar from hardship to a dynamic economy that prioritizes human development alongside financial growth. Sheikha Al Mayassa emphasized that his vision aimed to elevate Qatar as a hub for Arab talent, inspiring pride across the region. His tenure was marked by a rare transition of power, stepping down willingly to entrust a younger generation, including her brother, to carry forward the country’s progress.
She also reflected on the personal support and empowerment she received from her father, noting his insistence that she pursue education and opportunities without limitation based on gender. This included encouragement to study abroad and gaining early professional experience within Qatar’s cultural institutions. Sheikha Al Mayassa began working closely with her father immediately after completing university in 2005, accompanying him on international visits and contributing to significant projects such as the Museum of Islamic Art. Her father’s focus on cultural infrastructure as a catalyst for socioeconomic growth was a recurring theme in their shared work.
Among her father’s notable achievements, she cited the founding of Al Jazeera, emphasizing its role in promoting freedom of expression and dialogue across the Arab world. She described his leadership style as inclusive and patient, marked by a willingness to embrace disagreement as a route to solutions, always prioritizing Qatar’s best interests over personal biases.
Beyond his political and public roles, Sheikha Al Mayassa portrayed her father as a devoted family man who maintained close ties with the community. He maintained a hands-on approach to leadership, regularly engaging with citizens and monitoring developments across neighborhoods. His respect for family values and insistence on discipline extended to both public and private spheres.
As Qatar mourns the loss of this influential leader, Sheikha Al Mayassa called for unity, discipline, and determination to uphold his legacy. She expressed confidence that her brother’s leadership would continue to guide the nation toward ambitious goals, reaffirming their collective responsibility to serve Qatar with humility, generosity, and dedication. She concluded by urging all Qataris to honor her father’s memory through continued hard work and commitment to the country’s progress.