Updated: January 18, 2026
Junaid Safdar, the son of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Captain (retd) Muhammad Safdar, has always stayed in the spotlight due to his family’s prominent role in Pakistani politics. As the grandson of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, his personal life often draws public interest. One topic that frequently comes up is his first marriage to Ayesha Saif Khan, which made headlines for its glamour and later its unfortunate end. In this post, we’ll dive into the details of that chapter in a straightforward way, covering the key facts, timeline, and what followed.
Table of Contents
Who Is Junaid Safdar’s First Wife?
Junaid Safdar’s first wife was Ayesha Saif Khan (also referred to as Ayesha Saifur Rehman in some reports). She is the daughter of Saifur Rehman Khan, a well-known businessman and political figure who served as Chairman of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) during Nawaz Sharif’s second term as Prime Minister in the 1990s. Saifur Rehman has long been a close associate of the Sharif family.
Ayesha, born and raised in Qatar, received her early education at British schools there, excelling in her O and A-level examinations. She comes from an affluent background with strong ties to both business and political circles in Pakistan.
The Marriage: A Lavish London Ceremony
The couple tied the knot in a private yet elegant nikah ceremony in London on August 22, 2021. Due to travel restrictions at the time (Maryam Nawaz and Captain Safdar were not permitted to leave Pakistan), Junaid’s parents joined virtually. However, Nawaz Sharif and former Finance Minister Ishaq Dar attended in person, adding to the event’s significance.
- The bride wore a stunning lengha by Indian designer Sabyasachi.
- Festivities included a grand reception at The Lanesborough hotel in Knightsbridge.
- Later celebrations took place in Pakistan, including a valima at Jati Umra and other receptions.
The wedding blended tradition with luxury, reflecting the families’ status. It was widely covered in media and social platforms, sparking discussions about political alliances through marriage.
Key Details at a Glance
Here’s a quick overview in table form for easy reference:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Wife’s Name | Ayesha Saif Khan (Ayesha Saifur Rehman) |
| Father’s Name | Saifur Rehman Khan (former NAB Chairman) |
| Marriage Date | August 22, 2021 |
| Location (Nikah) | London, UK |
| Duration of Marriage | Approximately 2 years |
| Divorce Announcement | October 2023 (confirmed by Junaid on Instagram) |
| Reason (Publicly Stated) | Mutual decision; described as a private matter |
| Post-Divorce Actions | Junaid removed photos from social media |
This table sums up the essential timeline and facts surrounding the union.
The Divorce and What Came After
In October 2023, Junaid Safdar shared a brief Instagram story confirming the separation. He wrote that the news was true, wished Ayesha well, and noted it was a private issue. He also cleared all shared photos from his profile.
Ayesha later spoke publicly, mentioning a lack of “sukoon” (peace) in the marriage and indirectly pointing to external influences, including family dynamics. However, both sides kept most details private, emphasizing mutual respect.
Following the divorce, life moved on. Junaid announced his second marriage in late 2025 to Shanzay (or Shanze/Shanzay Ali Rohail), the granddaughter of senior politician Sheikh Rohale Asghar. The families share close ties—Shanzay and Junaid’s sister Mahnoor are longtime friends. Wedding events kicked off in January 2026, with mehndi, baraat, and walima held in Lahore, marking a new chapter.
Conclusion
Junaid Safdar’s first marriage to Ayesha Saif Khan was a high-profile event that highlighted family connections in Pakistan’s elite circles. While it began with celebration in 2021, it ended quietly in 2023 after about two years. Marriages in prominent families often attract scrutiny, but personal matters like these deserve privacy and understanding.
Today, Junaid has embarked on a new journey, and we wish him happiness ahead. Life brings changes, and sometimes the best path is moving forward with grace. If you’re curious about political family ties or similar stories, feel free to explore more—Pakistan’s political landscape is full of interesting layers!