Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, the spiritual leader of the worldwide Ismaili Muslim community, has passed away at the age of 88. His death was officially confirmed on Tuesday.
Born as Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, he was the 49th Aga Khan and head of the Nizari Isma’ili sect, assuming leadership in 1957 at the age of 20 after the passing of his grandfather. An announcement regarding his successor is expected soon.
The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) issued a statement expressing deep sorrow, confirming that Prince Karim Aga Khan peacefully passed away in Lisbon on February 4, 2025, surrounded by family. The organisation also assured that the name of his designated successor would be disclosed in due course.
Renowned for both his spiritual leadership and extensive philanthropic efforts, Prince Karim Aga Khan was among the world’s wealthiest individuals. He was particularly known for his contributions to global development and his passion for horse racing.
A British citizen, he led a community of approximately 12 million Ismaili Muslims who believe he was a direct descendant of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through Hazrat Bibi Fatima and Hazrat Ali. Revered as “the bringer of life,” he remained a highly respected figure despite facing personal challenges.
Throughout his life, he spearheaded numerous humanitarian initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life across various communities, transcending religious and cultural boundaries. The AKDN, in a social media statement, reaffirmed its commitment to continuing his legacy of global development and humanitarian work.
Prince Karim Aga Khan’s lineage traces back to Persia, though his ancestors migrated to India two centuries ago. Born in Switzerland in 1936, he spent much of his later life in France while holding British citizenship. His final days were spent in Lisbon, Portugal.
He married British model Sally Croker-Poole in 1969, with whom he had three children. After their 25-year marriage ended, he married Princess Gabrielle (formerly a German pop singer) in 1998, who converted to Islam and took the name Inaara. The couple had a son before separating after six years.
His immense wealth included a luxurious £100 million yacht, Alamshar, and ownership of the famed racehorse Shergar, which was stolen in Ireland in 1983 and never recovered.
Prince Karim Aga Khan is survived by his children—Princess Zahra, Prince Rahim, Prince Hussain, and Prince Aly Muhammad—along with his brother Prince Amyn Muhammad, half-sister Princess Yasmin, and four grandchildren.
The Aga Khan, son of Prince Aly Khan and Joan Yarde-Buller, spent his early years in Nairobi, Kenya, before studying at Institut Le Rosey in Switzerland and later earning a degree in Islamic history from Harvard University in 1959.
