Aga Khan IV, Spiritual Leader and Philanthropist, Passes Away at 88
The Aga Khan IV, Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslim community and a close friend of the late Queen Elizabeth II, has died at the age of 88. He passed away peacefully in Lisbon on 4 February 2025, surrounded by his family, as confirmed by the Aga Khan Development Network, the philanthropic organisation he founded.
The Aga Khan was the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, a role he inherited at the age of 20 in 1957. He was widely regarded by his followers as a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad. Over his lifetime, he became a prominent philanthropist, business magnate, and racehorse owner, with an estimated net worth of over £11 billion. His charitable efforts through the Aga Khan Development Network focused on improving the quality of life for individuals and communities worldwide, regardless of their religious or cultural backgrounds.
A personal friend of the British royal family, the Aga Khan was granted the title of His Highness by Queen Elizabeth II. He shared her passion for horseracing and owned several successful racehorses, including the legendary Shergar, which was infamously stolen in 1983 and never recovered. King Charles III was reportedly “deeply saddened” by his death, describing him as a “personal friend of many years.”
The Aga Khan is survived by his four children—Princess Zahra, Prince Rahim, Prince Hussain, and Prince Aly Muhammad—and four grandchildren. An announcement regarding his successor is expected to follow. His legacy as a spiritual leader and humanitarian will continue to influence the Ismaili community and beyond.
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