In a speech broadcasted on Qatar’s state television, Sheikh Hamad said it was time for a new generation to take over. He made no direct mention of the prime minister and foreign minister, Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim al-Thani, who had been widely expected to step down as well. 

Sheikh Hamad has been in power since 1995.

The tiny country is the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas.

Diplomats said this month that the emir was considering a smooth transfer of power that would probably begin with the departure of the prime minister and foreign minister, Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim al-Thani.