Qatar Emir Sheikh Tamim’s $330 Crore Yacht & Luxury Cars Set for India Visit
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim to Visit India for Strategic Talks on February 17-18
New Delhi: Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, the Emir of Qatar, is set to visit India on February 17-18, marking his first visit to the country in nearly a decade. The two-day visit will focus on deepening ties between India and Qatar, with key discussions expected on energy cooperation and regional politics in West Asia. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that the Emir is coming at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accompanied by a high-level delegation that includes ministers and business leaders.
One of the main goals of the visit is to strengthen bilateral relations, particularly in trade, investment, and technology. Qatar is a major supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to India, making energy a crucial aspect of the discussions. The Al-Thani family, known for their vast wealth, plays an influential role in Qatar’s global economic and political reach.
The Al-Thani Family: A Legacy of Wealth and Power
The Al-Thani family’s fortune is estimated at a staggering USD 335 billion, placing them among the wealthiest families in the world. Their global investments span iconic properties and major corporations, including ownership of London’s landmark The Shard and the renowned luxury department store Harrods. The family has stakes in major international companies such as Volkswagen and British Airways.
In Qatar, the Emir holds supreme power, and over the years, 11 members of the Al-Thani family have ascended to the throne. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani became the Emir in 2013 after his elder brother, Sheikh Jassim, stepped down from the position.
Sheikh Tamim: A Glimpse Into His Life and Lavish Lifestyle
Born on June 3, 1980, Sheikh Tamim is the fourth son of the former Emir, Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani. His education began at Harrow School in London, followed by graduation from the Royal Military Academy in England in 1998. Upon returning to Qatar, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Qatari Army.
The Emir, who has 13 children from three marriages, enjoys a luxurious lifestyle. His residence, the Doha Royal Palace, is a testament to his wealth, valued at approximately USD 1 billion. The palace boasts over 100 rooms, a grand ballroom, and parking for around 500 cars, with parts of the building adorned in gold.
Lavish Possessions
Sheikh Tamim’s wealth extends to his personal assets, including a luxurious yacht valued at about $40 million (roughly Rs 3.3 billion). The 124-meter yacht features a helipad and can accommodate 35 guests and 90 crew members.
The Al-Thani family also owns Qatar Amiri Airlines, founded in 1977 and reserved exclusively for the royal family. The airline operates a fleet of 14 aircraft, including three Boeing 747s.
For ground transportation, Sheikh Tamim is known to own an impressive collection of luxury cars, including Bugatti, Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Rolls-Royce.
Qatar, with its per capita income of $114,648, ranks as one of the wealthiest nations globally, coming in fifth for per capita income.
This visit underscores the deepening relationship between India and Qatar, with a focus on strengthening economic and energy ties, as well as fostering diplomatic collaboration in the region.