Story of the Ismaili Center, Houston: From the late Aga Khan IV’s confirmation in March 2018 to develop the Center to its official inauguration by Aga Khan V during his forthcoming visit to Texas in November 2025

Story of the Ismaili Center, Houston

From Vision to Realization

Barakah presents a detailed timeline of the Ismaili Center in Houston, tracing its journey from conception to completion. The story covers the period from 2018, when His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, Mawlana Shah Karim, confirmed the development of the Center, to its official inauguration by Aga Khan V during his anticipated visit to Texas in November 2025.

Background

The city of Houston was originally chosen in 2006 by Mawlana Shah Karim, His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, as the site of the first Ismaili Center in the United States. However, it was not until March 22, 2018, that he formally confirmed its development during his Diamond Jubilee visit to the USA.

Aga Khan IV’s Diamond Jubilee Address

On March 22, 2018, during his fourth address to his followers in Houston, following earlier gatherings on March 20 and 21, Mawlana Shah Karim shared an inspiring message of progress and faith.

“I am happy to say to my Jamat today that it is my hope that in the years ahead, we will be able to develop a Centre here in Houston, and I know that this is a matter where my Jamati leaders wanted me to confirm this to my Jamat — here is your confirmation. We will work together to create a Centre. It will be an ambassadorial building for our Jamat, a building of elegance, a building containing the representation of faith, a building where, Insha’Allah, you will find peace and strength on sirat al-mustaqim [the straight path]. I am happy to tell you that my brother is already working on this project. So we are looking for professional architects, or an architect, who will express our faith in this building.”

This statement, made before the Houston Jamat, signified the beginning of the Ismaili Center project — envisioned as a space of cultural diplomacy, faith, and unity.

Looking Forward

The Ismaili Center, Houston, stands as a symbol of dialogue, spirituality, and architectural grace. Its pending inauguration in 2025 by Aga Khan V will mark a historic moment for the Ismaili community in North America.

Prepared by Malik Merchant

Author’s Summary: A chronicle of faith, architecture, and community vision tracing the Ismaili Center Houston’s path from its 2018 confirmation by Aga Khan IV to its 2025 inauguration by Aga Khan V.

barakah.com — 2025-11-04