Who Is Aga Khan IV? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Aga Khan IV, born on December 13, 1936, is a prominent figure celebrated as the 49th Imam of Nizari Isma'ilism. As of 2025, he is 88 years old and has dedicated his life to spiritual leadership and philanthropy. His Imamship, which began in 1957, has been marked by his commitment to progress, education, and social welfare within the Ismaili community and beyond.
| Occupation | Religious Leader |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 13, 1936 |
| Age | 88 Years |
| Birth Place | Geneva, Switzerland |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | Switzerland |
| Date of death | 4 February, 2025 |
| Died Place | Lisbon, Portugal |
Popularity
Aga Khan IV's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific details about his height and weight are not publicly documented, Aga Khan IV is often described as having a dignified presence aligning with his esteemed position in the community. His involvement in athletic and cultural activities reflects a commitment to personal well-being.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Aga Khan IV is known for his reserved personal life. He was previously married to Princess Salimah Aga Khan, but they divorced in 1995. As of 2025, he remains a private individual regarding his relationship status, avoiding speculations about current dating or romantic involvement. He has three children: Prince Rahim, Prince Hussain, and Princess Zahra, who are actively engaged in various philanthropic endeavors.
He was declared healthy despite being born prematurely. In 1949, his parents divorced in part due to Prince Aly Khan's extramarital affairs, and shortly after, Prince Aly Khan married American actress Rita Hayworth – with whom he had a daughter, Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, the half-sister of al-Husseini.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Aga Khan IV's estimated net worth is in the range of hundreds of millions of dollars, primarily stemming from his investments and his leadership role within the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). His salary details are not publicly disclosed; however, his considerable wealth can be attributed to various business ventures and philanthropic initiatives.
Al-Husseini's net worth was estimated at over US$13.3 billion by Vanity Fair in 2013. Forbes included al-Husseini in its list of the world’s fifteen richest royals, though he held no political sovereignty or territorial authority.
The designation referred to his hereditary role as Imam of the Nizari Ismailis, not to any formal royal or monarchical status. He was the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network, one of the largest private development networks in the world.
Al-Husseini was a business magnate with citizenship of the UK, France, Switzerland, Portugal and Canada (honorary) as well as a racehorse owner and breeder.
Career, Business and Investments
Aga Khan IV has significantly impacted various sectors through his leadership and investments. He oversees the Aga Khan Development Network, which operates numerous institutes, hospitals, and educational establishments worldwide. His business acumen has contributed to the economic development of many countries, focusing on sustainable practices and community welfare. He is also known for engaging in real estate and cultural heritage projects that preserve and promote Ismaili history.
When his grandfather died, he was thrust into the position of the Aga Khan. At the time of his accession to the Imamate in 1957, Karim al-Husseini was a university student. Reflecting on the transition, he later stated that he had to set aside plans for further academic study in order to assume his new responsibilities as Imam.
He graduated from Harvard University in 1959, two years after ascending the imamate, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history (with Cum Laude honours) and his varsity H for the Harvard Crimson men's soccer team.
Social Network
Aga Khan IV maintains a low-profile presence on social media. He primarily communicates through official channels related to the AKDN and the Ismaili community. His initiatives often feature in various media outlets, reflecting his commitment to social justice, education, and healthcare.
Education
Aga Khan IV was educated at Harvard University, where he graduated with a degree in Islamic History. His educational background has deeply influenced his views on the importance of education in combating poverty and improving global health. His academic endeavors reflect his commitment to fostering knowledge and research in various fields.
Karim spent the war years in Nairobi, Kenya, where his early education was through private tutoring. He later attended the Institut Le Rosey in Switzerland for nine years where he achieved, in his words, "fair grades".
He was admitted to MIT and wanted to study science, but his grandfather, Sultan Muhammad Shah, vetoed the decision, owing to which he attended Harvard University, where he was elected a member of The Delphic Club and majored in Islamic history.
