Prince Karim al-Hussaini, popularly known as Aga Khan IV, the 49th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslims, passed away peacefully at the age of 88 in Lisbon, Portugal, on February 4, 2025, surrounded by his family. His legacy as a global philanthropist, business magnate, and spiritual leader spans over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on economic development, education, and cultural preservation worldwide.
A notice on the website of the Aga Khan Development Network – the development organisation he founded – announced his death, saying that he “passed away peacefully in Lisbon on 4 February 2025… surrounded by his family”.
It said: “His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), passed away peacefully in Lisbon on 4 February 2025, aged 88, surrounded by his family.
“Prince Karim Aga Khan was the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network.
“The announcement of his designated successor will follow.
“Leaders and staff of the Aga Khan Development Network offer our condolences to the family of His Highness and to the Ismaili community worldwide.
“As we honour the legacy of our founder, Prince Karim Aga Khan, we continue to work with our partners to improve the quality of life for individuals and communities across the world, as he wished, irrespective of their religious affiliations or origins.”
The Aga Khan, who inherited his title of the 49th Imam of the Shia Imami Ismailis in 1957 at the age of 20, was believed to have been worth over £11bn at the time of his death.
He was born in Switzerland and spent much of his later life in France, although he had British citizenship.
He was an old friend of the late Queen Elizabeth II, who had bestowed on him the title of His Highness when he became the leader of the Ismaili Muslims.
A Life of Leadership and Service
Born in Geneva, Switzerland, in 1936, Prince Karim was the direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad and succeeded his grandfather, Aga Khan III, as Imam in 1957 at the young age of 20. His spiritual leadership of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community, which consists of approximately 15 million followers worldwide, was defined by modernization, economic empowerment, and humanitarian aid.
As the head of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), he spearheaded initiatives in healthcare, education, economic development, and cultural restoration, focusing on improving lives in developing nations, particularly in Asia and Africa.
Philanthropic and Cultural Contributions
The Aga Khan dedicated his life to philanthropy, funding hospitals, schools, universities, and cultural projects worldwide. Some of his notable contributions include:
🔹 Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) – A global network running social and economic development projects in over 30 countries.
🔹 Aga Khan Foundation – Established to combat poverty, malnutrition, and health crises in underdeveloped regions.
🔹 Aga Khan University (AKU) in Karachi – One of the leading institutions in medical and higher education in the developing world.
🔹 Aga Khan Trust for Culture – Focused on the restoration of historical sites, including Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi.
🔹 Aga Khan Award for Architecture – A prestigious award recognizing excellence in Islamic architecture and urban planning.
His dedication to global development, irrespective of religion or nationality, earned him numerous international honors and recognitions.
A Passion for Horse Breeding and Racing
Beyond philanthropy, the Aga Khan was an accomplished horse breeder and racing enthusiast. He established one of the most successful horse breeding programs in the world, with notable wins in European horse racing competitions.
🏇 Shergar – His most famous and valuable racehorse, won the Epsom Derby in 1981 but was later kidnapped in Ireland in 1983 and never recovered.
🏇 He won the Epsom Derby five times with horses Shahrastani (1986), Kahyasi (1986), Sinndar (2000), and Harzand (2016).
🏇 In 2008, his filly Zarkava won the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, further solidifying his legacy in horse racing.
A Billionaire’s Global Influence
Prince Karim Aga Khan’s wealth was estimated at $1 billion in 2008, according to Forbes. His fortune was built upon inherited wealth, strategic business ventures, and philanthropic enterprises.
Aside from his lavish lifestyle, which included a private island in the Bahamas, a superyacht, and a private jet, he maintained a strong commitment to humanitarian work.
His contributions were felt across multiple sectors, including media, finance, and architecture:
📌 Founder of the Nation Media Group – The largest independent media house in East and Central Africa.
📌 Donor to Harvard and MIT – Established the Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture.
Succession and Future of the Ismaili Community
The Aga Khan is survived by his children – Princess Zahra, Prince Rahim, Prince Hussain, and Prince Aly Muhammad. It is widely believed that Prince Rahim Aga Khan will succeed his father as the 50th Imam of the Ismaili Muslims, though an official announcement is yet to be made.
His passing marks the end of an era, but his humanitarian, cultural, and economic contributions will continue through the institutions he built.
The Aga Khan Development Network expressed its deep sorrow and reaffirmed its commitment to continuing his work, stating:
“We continue to work with our partners to improve the quality of life for individuals and communities across the world, as he wished, irrespective of their religious affiliations or origins.”
Global Reaction and Tributes
🌍 King Charles III has reportedly expressed deep sadness, acknowledging the Aga Khan as a personal friend of many years.
🌍 World leaders, including heads of Pakistan, India, France, Canada, and the United Nations, have honored his legacy.
🌍 His death has united Ismaili Muslims worldwide in prayer and remembrance.
Conclusion
Prince Karim Aga Khan’s life was a testament to leadership, philanthropy, and global unity. As one of the most influential spiritual leaders and philanthropists of the modern era, his impact on healthcare, education, culture, and economic development will be felt for generations.
Much like the late royal, the Aga Khan was a huge fan of horseracing and owned various horses.
These included the famous Shergar, who was stolen by gunmen in Ireland in 1983 and never seen again.
He is survived by his children Princess Zahra, Prince Rahim, Prince Hussain and Prince Aly Muhammad, and four grandchildren.
His passing leaves a void in global philanthropy, but his vision for an inclusive and progressive world remains alive through the institutions he built. His legacy will endure, shaping communities and lives worldwide. 🕊️