ISLAMABAD – Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan V arrived in Pakistan on first official visit since assuming leadership. Upon arrival, he President Asif Ali Zardari welcomed him in Islamabad, where discussions focused on mutual interests and community welfare initiatives.
اسماعیلی برادری کے روحانی پیشوا پرنس رحیم آغا خان پاکستان پہنچ گئے۔ صدر آصف علی زرداری نے نور خان ایئربیس پر معزز مہمانوں کا استقبال کیا۔ pic.twitter.com/gX4N6lT9c8
— WE News (@WENewsPk) May 20, 2026
The spiritual leader of the Ismaili community is expected to visit Gilgit-Baltistan during his stay, where several community and religious events are planned with large public participation anticipated. He arrived in South Asian nation on the invitation of the Government of Pakistan and will remain in the country for one week. The visit is being closely followed across administrative and community circles due to its significance and scale.
Shortly after his arrival, Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini met with former President Asif Ali Zardari at the Presidency in Islamabad. The meeting focused on matters of mutual interest, with detailed discussions on welfare initiatives and the ongoing social and development work carried out for the Ismaili community in Pakistan. Officials described the engagement as an important high-level interaction during the visit.
During his stay, Aga Khan V is scheduled to travel extensively across Gilgit-Baltistan. He will attend public gatherings, religious events, and community programs in various regions. Authorities expect a large turnout of people at each location, reflecting strong public interest and participation in the upcoming events.
A series of major events are being organized at several key locations, including Passu Cones in Hunza, Gilgit city, Gahkuch Bala, Taus Yasin, and Ashkoman. In view of anticipated large crowds, officials are considering conducting multiple sessions at certain venues to manage attendance and ensure smooth participation.
Federal and regional institutions have been placed on high alert. Government of Pakistan also decided to extend full state protocol to the visiting spiritual leader. Security and travel arrangements have been significantly strengthened, including a request for the provision of a bulletproof vehicle to ensure safe movement throughout the visit.
Authorities intensified surveillance and monitoring along the Karakoram Highway, particularly from Nomalabad Bridge to Sost Dry Port. The National Highway Authority (NHA), police, and the Frontier Works Organization (FWO) have been assigned special responsibilities, including road maintenance, traffic management, and security operations to ensure smooth travel during the visit.
The administration also recommended opening Babusar Road as an alternative route to manage traffic flow and ease transportation pressure during the visit. In addition, instructions have been issued to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply in Upper Hunza and surrounding areas. Authorities are also considering adjustments in transport schedules and travel timings to facilitate citizens and visitors.
Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan V officially assumed his responsibilities on February 11, 2025, after demise of his father on February 4, 2025. His current visit marks a significant milestone in his early leadership period and has drawn widespread attention due to its diplomatic, spiritual, and community importance.
