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19th century to 1939 AD
Oil was finally discovered at Dukhan in October 1939, but the Second World War put a stop on production.
In 1942 the three appraisal wells were sealed and the company's staff packed their bags: prosperity was to be delayed. Meanwhile, there was more hardship, with the sharp fall in revenue from pearling, and food shortages.
| Related heritage sites |
| Museum of Islamic Art Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al-Thani Museum Qatar National Museum |
Many Qataris temporarily emigrated. It was not until December 1949 that the first ship left the shores of Qatar bearing a consignment of crude oil.
By 1944 Sheikh Abdullah had handed over much of the management of the country's affairs to his son Hamad, a popular leader, respected for his faith, ability and breadth of vision.
Yet Hamad himself suffered ill health, and died in 1948, while his young son Khalifa was still being prepared to succeed in his role. Ali, Hamad's eldest brother, was appointed ruler in 1949 when Abdullah abdicated because of old age, with Khalifa bin Hamad as the Heir Apparent. In 1960 Ali abdicated in favour of his son Ahmad, with Khalifa as Deputy Ruler. Then in February 1972 Khalifa assumed power from his cousin, endorsed by the ruling family and the people of Qatar. The country had become formally independent of Britain's protectorate role in the September of the previous year. In June 1995, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani acceded to power.
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