Zahir-ud-Daula was recognized as the titular Nawab of Arcot or Amir-i-Arcot on the death of his father Azim Jah in 1874. In 1876, he moved the official residence to the Amir Mahal. He also participated in the Delhi Durbar of January 1877, during which the proclamation of Queen Victoria as the Empress of India was made. Zahir-ud-Daula was awarded the GCSI and the honour of a 15-gun salute.
Death
Zahir-ud-Daula died in 1879 and was buried with state honours.