Dubai, UAE – Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, expressed deep sorrow upon the passing of Aga Khan, the 49th spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslims. The philanthropist and billionaire died at the age of 88 on Tuesday, leaving behind millions of followers and a legacy that spans across multiple continents.
In a heartfelt message shared on X, Sheikh Mohammed praised Aga Khan not only for his leadership but also for his enduring friendship. "He was not only a great leader for his people, but a true friend and an equestrian who loved and understood horses deeply," Sheikh Mohammed wrote.
Aga Khan was more than a religious leader; he was known for his generosity and commitment to improving the lives of the world's most disadvantaged people. As a philanthropist, he used his considerable wealth to fund numerous humanitarian projects. His efforts centered on alleviating poverty, advancing education, and fostering cultural exchanges, making him one of the world’s most revered philanthropists.
Throughout his life, Aga Khan dedicated significant resources to the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), an organization that has made a profound impact in some of the world’s poorest regions. His initiatives provided education, healthcare, and economic development support in places where poverty often spurs despair. His work also included promoting peace and understanding between communities.
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted Aga Khan’s global legacy, noting that he was "one of the world’s greatest philanthropists" whose "life’s work was dedicated to relieving the hopelessness of poverty and promoting human development, building bridges between communities, and working tirelessly in the cause of peace."
Aga Khan's influence was felt in the UAE as well, where his foundation worked alongside organizations like Dubai Cares, Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism, and Art Dubai to support education, culture, and the arts.
In addition to his philanthropic and spiritual leadership, Aga Khan was a noted equestrian. His deep love for horses and the equestrian world earned him admiration in this arena as well, adding another layer to his multifaceted legacy.
The Aga Khan's passing marks the end of an era for the Ismaili Muslim community, and the world now mourns the loss of a man whose impact extended far beyond religious circles into humanitarian and global development initiatives.
