He was born in Castle Burgajet to Xhemal Pasha Zogu (c. 1860–1911) and Zenja Malika Hanem (c.1860–1884).

As Xhemal's eldest son, Zogu was expected to be selected over his half-brother Zog of Albania to lead the family and to inherit his hereditary responsibilities as Governor of Mati; however, for unknown reasons, he was passed over.

His name comes up as the leading judge during the trial against Haxhi Qamili and other leaders of the Peasant Revolt in Albania during June 1915, arranged by the Serbian army.

First, he married Ruhijé Doshishti (daughter of Albanian aristocrats Salih Agolli Doshishti and wife Gylijé Allaj and sister of Princess Adile Zogu's husband) in 1908, who bore him a son, Said, who died in infancy, and a daughter, Melek, who died at birth.

[citation needed] He married Faika Minxhalliu in 1932, who bore him a son, Prince Skënder Zogu, who survived to adulthood.