The passing of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani has prompted widespread schedule changes across Qatar, with museums, libraries, festivals, government services, maritime activities and community events closing or suspending operations during the four-day national mourning period declared by the Amiri Diwan. Following the announcement, public institutions, cultural organisations and event organisers swiftly adjusted their schedules in line with state protocol and as a mark of respect for HH the late Father Amir. Qatar Museums (QM) announced the temporary closure of all museums, galleries and creative hubs nationwide from July 12-16.The facilities are scheduled to reopen on July 17. The Qatar National Library also suspended operations from July 13-16 and will resume regular opening hours on July 17.Several public events have also been postponed. The Third Hamba Exhibition for Pakistani Mango and Its Products at Souq Waqif, a popular commercial and cultural showcase, was suspended from July 12 and is scheduled to resume on July 16. The Qatar Toy Festival at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre also announced a four-day closure in observance of the national mourning period. Official celebrations, public entertainment programmes and ceremonial activities organised by ministries and government institutions have also been put on hold, while cultural venues, including Katara Cultural Village, have suspended festivities and musical performances. The Ministry of Transport also announced the suspension of all recreational and non-commercial maritime activities until further notice. The directive covers leisure boats, fishing vessels, jet skis and other recreational watercraft, while vessels operating under international maritime conventions remain exempt. Meanwhile, temporary traffic closures have been implemented on key roads, including Lusail Stadium Street, to facilitate funeral processions and official condolence gatherings at Lusail Palace. Work in all ministries, government agencies and public institutions has been suspended from July 13-18, with employees expected to return to work on July 19. Hamad Medical Corporation has postponed all outpatient clinic appointments scheduled between July 13-16, assuring patients that new appointments will be arranged. Emergency medical services continue to operate without interruption. FAHES vehicle inspection centres have also announced temporary changes to their operating schedules in line with the national directives.In addition, community organisations have also cancelled or postponed activities out of respect. The organisers of SEAsters-in-Action 2026 announced the cancellation of this Saturday’s event, which was set to mark the 12th PADI Women’s Dive Day, citing the national mourning period and the current situation in Qatar. “With heavy hearts and after careful consideration, we have made the difficult decision to cancel this Saturday’s SEAsters-in-Action 2026 in observance of the national mourning period,” organisers Margaux De Pauw, Anusha Kandaiah and Michelle Anne del Carmen said in a joint statement. They said the decision was made out of respect and solidarity with the people of Qatar, while emphasising that the safety and security of participants, volunteers, partners and supporters remained their highest priority. Although the annual gathering has been called off, the organisers stressed that the initiative’s mission remains unchanged, highlighting their commitment to marine conservation and community engagement under this year’s PADI Women’s Dive Day theme, “Celebrate Community. Create Change”.The organisers also extended their heartfelt condolences to the people of Qatar during the mourning period, expressing hope for comfort, peace and strength for the nation. While many private organisers have adjusted their schedules or postponed activities, a number of malls, attractions, and businesses remain open, but with scaled-back entertainment and celebratory programmes in observance of the national mourning period.
