Aga Khan IV, born Prince Shah Karim Al Hussaini on December 13, 1936, is the 49th and current Imam of the Nizari Ismaili Muslims, a sect within Shia Islam. He assumed the title on July 11, 1957, following the death of his grandfather, Aga Khan III. As a spiritual leader and philanthropist, he has dedicated his life to improving global development, particularly in education, healthcare, and economic sustainability through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). Known for his commitment to pluralism, cultural preservation, and social progress, Aga Khan IV has significantly influenced humanitarian efforts worldwide. With a background in Islamic studies and a deep understanding of modern challenges, he has played a vital role in bridging the gap between tradition and contemporary needs.
Aga Khan IV Biography
Aga Khan IV, born Prince Shah Karim Al Hussaini on December 13, 1936, in Geneva, Switzerland, is the 49th Imam of the Nizari Ismaili Muslims. He succeeded his grandfather, Aga Khan III, in 1957 at the age of 20. Educated at Harvard University, he has dedicated his life to modernizing and uplifting Muslim communities worldwide.
As a philanthropist and global leader, he founded the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), which operates in over 30 countries, focusing on education, healthcare, economic development, and cultural preservation. His initiatives include Aga Khan University (AKU), Aga Khan Academies, hospitals, and historic restoration projects.
Respected globally, he has received numerous honors, including the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour (France) and The Order of Canada. Through his lifelong commitment to humanitarianism, pluralism, and progress, Aga Khan IV continues to inspire and empower communities worldwide.
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Aga Khan IV Age
Aga Khan IV, whose full name is Prince Shah Karim Al Hussaini, was born on December 13, 1936, in Geneva, Switzerland. As of 2025, he is 88 years old.
He became the 49th Imam of the Nizari Ismaili Muslims on July 11, 1957, at the age of 20, following the passing of his grandfather, Aga Khan III. His leadership has spanned more than 67 years, making him one of the longest-serving spiritual leaders in modern history.
Aga Khan IV Net Worth
Aga Khan IV, born Prince Shah Karim Al Hussaini, was a prominent spiritual leader and philanthropist. Estimates of his net worth varied significantly over time. In 2013, Vanity Fair reported his net worth to be over $13.3 billion. Forbes also recognized him as one of the world’s fifteen richest royals. Other sources, such as Celebrity Net Worth, estimated his wealth to be around $800 million. These discrepancies highlight the challenges in accurately assessing the net worth of individuals with diverse and extensive assets.
Aga Khan IV’s wealth was derived from various sources, including family inheritance, personal investments, and his horse breeding business. He was known for his passion for horse racing, owning several celebrated horses and achieving significant success in the field. Beyond his personal interests, he was deeply committed to philanthropy, founding the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in 1967. The AKDN is one of the largest private development organizations globally, focusing on improving living conditions and opportunities in developing countries, particularly in Africa and Asia.
Despite the opulence associated with his wealth, Aga Khan IV was dedicated to humanitarian efforts, investing billions into development projects worldwide. His legacy includes significant contributions to healthcare, education, and economic development, reflecting his commitment to improving the quality of life for people across the globe.
Aga Khan IV Family
Aga Khan IV, born Prince Shah Karim Al Hussaini on December 13, 1936, came from a distinguished lineage tracing back to Prophet Muhammad.
Parents & Sibling
- Father: Prince Aly Khan – Diplomat and racehorse owner.
- Mother: Princess Tajuddawlah – British aristocrat.
- Grandfather: Aga Khan III – A key Muslim leader.
- Brother: Prince Amyn Aga Khan – Businessman and philanthropist.
Marriages & Children
- First Wife (1969–1995): Princess Salimah Aga Khan
- Children:
- Princess Zahra (b. 1970) – Active in AKDN.
- Prince Rahim (b. 1971) – Economic development leader.
- Prince Hussain (b. 1974) – Focused on environmental conservation.
- Children:
- Second Wife (1998–2011): Princess Gabriele Aga Khan
- Child:
- Prince Aly Muhammad (b. 2000) – Humanitarian work.
- Child:
His family remains deeply involved in philanthropy, global development, and Ismaili leadership.
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Aga Khan IV Education
Aga Khan IV received a prestigious education that shaped his leadership and global vision.
- Early Education: He attended Le Rosey, an elite boarding school in Switzerland, known for educating royalty and world leaders.
- Higher Education: He studied at Harvard University, graduating in 1959 with a degree in Islamic History. His studies focused on Muslim civilizations, governance, and international relations, preparing him for his role as the 49th Imam of the Nizari Ismaili Muslims.
His education provided a strong foundation for his philanthropic work, religious leadership, and global development efforts.
Aga Khan IV Religion
Aga Khan IV was the 49th Imam of the Nizari Ismaili Muslims, a sect within Shia Islam. As the spiritual leader of millions of Ismailis worldwide, he guided his community in both religious and secular matters.
Ismaili Islam
- A branch of Shia Islam that follows Imamat, where leadership is passed through direct descendants of Hazrat Ali (cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad).
- Emphasizes intellectual interpretation, social justice, and humanitarian service.
Role as Imam
- Aga Khan IV was believed to be the divinely appointed leader of Ismailis, serving as both a spiritual guide and a modernizer.
- Promoted pluralism, education, and ethical leadership while maintaining Ismaili traditions.
His leadership blended faith and development, making him a globally respected figure in both Islamic and humanitarian circles.
Aga Khan IV Achievement
Aga Khan IV dedicated his life to philanthropy, global development, and Ismaili leadership. His achievements span across education, healthcare, economic development, and cultural preservation.
1. Establishment of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN)
- Founded one of the largest private development organizations, operating in over 30 countries.
- Focuses on education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and cultural preservation.
2. Education & Universities
- Established Aga Khan University (AKU), one of the top institutions in Pakistan and East Africa.
- Created Aga Khan Academies to provide high-quality education across the developing world.
3. Healthcare & Social Welfare
- Opened hospitals, clinics, and medical centers worldwide, improving healthcare access.
- Developed programs for poverty alleviation, disaster relief, and food security.
4. Economic Development & Infrastructure
- Founded the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development (AKFED) to promote business, tourism, and microfinance.
- Invested in projects improving energy, transport, and urban development.
5. Cultural Preservation & Architecture
- Launched the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC), which restores historical landmarks and promotes Islamic art & architecture.
- Created the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, recognizing excellence in sustainable and innovative design.
6. Global Recognition & Honors
- Received numerous international awards, including:
- Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour (France)
- The Order of Canada
- The Templeton Prize
- Honored with doctorates from Harvard, Oxford, and other top universities.
Legacy
Aga Khan IV’s work has transformed millions of lives, blending faith, humanitarianism, and modernization, ensuring a lasting impact on global development and Islamic leadership.
Aga Khan IV Death
Aga Khan IV, born Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, passed away peacefully in Lisbon on February 4, 2025, at the age of 88, surrounded by his family. As the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, he led his community for nearly seven decades, dedicating his life to philanthropy and global development. His passing marks the end of a significant era for the Ismaili community and the numerous humanitarian initiatives he championed. Details regarding his successor will be announced in due course.
