The transfer was concluded on 8 October 2020, with the Diplomatic Representative of the Ismaili Imamat to the Portuguese Republic, Nazim Ahmad, signing the deed on behalf of the Ismaili Imamat. This acquisition had the support of the Portuguese national and municipal authorities.

The newly acquired Leitão Palace will undergo restoration and rehabilitation works before it is ready for its intended use as an administrative centre by the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat’s secretariat and senior staff. The Palace takes its name from its first owner José Pinto Leitão, and was designed by Nicola Bigaglia, a Venetian architect, artist and modeller who settled in Portugal before returning to Venice.

On 3 June 2015, the Ismaili Imamat and the Republic of Portugal signed a landmark agreement which enabled the establishment of a formal Seat of the Ismaili Imamat in Portugal, marking a historic milestone. The establishment of a Seat reflects a longstanding relationship between the Ismaili Imamat and the Government of Portugal.

The Seat — designated by Hazar Imam as the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat — establishes a global headquarters in Lisbon for all dimensions of its activities, including those concerned with the affairs of the Ismaili community, international engagement and the Imamat’s commitment to improving the quality of life. This newly acquired addition not only enhances this institutional and global capacity, but reaffirms the Ismaili Imamat’s commitment to both Portugal and the city of Lisbon.