King Charles hosted a black tie dinner for the Aga Khan at Windsor Castle on Wednesday evening, marking the first anniversary of the spiritual leader's accession. The King welcomed the 50th hereditary Imam of the world's millions of Ismaili Muslims to the royal residence in Berkshire.
The two were photographed together in the castle's Grand Corridor, with the King wearing his distinctive Windsor Coat dinner jacket featuring scarlet collar and cuffs. Rahim Al-Hussaini was named Aga Khan V on February 4, 2025, following the death of his father, Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, the Aga Khan IV.
Soon after, the King granted the new Aga Khan the title 'His Highness', continuing a long-standing royal tradition. They were joined at the private dinner by members of the Aga Khan's family on the poignant anniversary.
The King last received the then-Prince Rahim at Buckingham Palace in July 2023 in his capacity as a member of the Aga Khan Development Network and Aga Khan Foundation. The Aga Khan is considered by his followers to be a direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad and is treated as a head of state.
The Windsor Uniform, worn by male members of the royal family and certain household members as approved by the King, dates back to 1779 when the earliest version was introduced by George III. The late Aga Khan, a billionaire philanthropist, was a longtime personal friend of both the King and Queen Elizabeth II.
