The Aga Khan Hospitals - Aga Khan Health Services

Lisbon, Portugal, 5 February 2025


Prince Rahim Aga Khan V named 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims

Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan V was today named the 50th hereditary Imam (spiritual leader) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, following the unsealing of the Will of his late father, Prince Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV, who died in Lisbon, Portugal yesterday, aged 88.

Prince Rahim Aga Khan V is a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his progeny) through his daughter, Hazrat Bibi Fatima, and the Prophet’s cousin and son-in-law, Hazrat Ali, the fourth Rightly Guided Caliph of Islam and the first Shia Imam.

Throughout their 1,400 year history, the Ismailis have been led by a living, hereditary Imam. The Ismailis live in over 35 countries and number approximately 12 to 15 million.


His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, 1936-2025

His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), passed away peacefully in Lisbon on 4 February 2025, aged 88, surrounded by his family.

The announcement of his designated successor will follow.

Building on foundations laid by his grandfather Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah, during his lifetime, Aga Khan IV grew the Aga Khan Health Services with the aim of improving the quality of life and healthcare for people in the developing world. In collaboration with other AKDN institutions, today we provide quality health care to 12 million people annually.

The staff and volunteers of the Aga Khan Health Services 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.