Mehdi-Qoli Mirza took part in the Herat campaign, a key military endeavor of the Qajar era, and served as Mir-Akhor (میرآخور; lit. master of the stables) to Morad Mirza, the son of Abbas Mirza.[2] In 1873, he was appointed as the head of Iran's Chaparkhaneh (چاپارخانه; lit.postal system), a vital component of Qajar administrative infrastructure.[2]
In 1885, he was tasked with suppressing a rebellion in Mashhad, demonstrating his administrative skills.[2] He later served as the governor of Yazd from 1899–1900, during which he worked to prevent sectarian violence, including efforts to protect the Babi community.[3] His governorship was succeeded by Soltan Hossein Mirza Jalal ed-Dowleh, the son of Mass'oud Mirza Zell-e Soltan.
Between 1902–1904, Mehdi-Qoli Mirza held the position of custodian of the Astan-e Quds Razavi, overseeing the administration of the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad. His tenure ended with his death in July 1904.[4]
Mehdi-Qoli Mirza donated a substantial portion of his wealth to the Astan-e Quds Razavi, establishing charitable endowments to support the shrine and its associated institutions.[4]