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The Ismaili Center Network Is Expanding to Georgia. The recent Texas visit of His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, the 50th hereditary Imam (spiritual leader) of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims, highlighted the continued growth of the Ismaili community’s presence in North America. During his visit to Texas, several cities including Houston, Sugar Land, Dallas, Carrollton, Euless, Plano, and Lewisville, recognized him with ceremonial honors such as Keys to the City and official proclamations. These are symbolic gestures commonly used by local governments to recognize distinguished visitors or community leaders. The visit also celebrated the opening of the Ismaili Center Houston, a 150,000-square-foot campus that includes a prayer hall, classrooms, educational spaces, exhibition galleries, gardens, and facilities designed to host cultural and interfaith events. It is one of only a handful of Ismaili Centers in the world and serves as a regional hub for the Ismaili community across the southern United States. A Brief History The Ismailis are a branch of Shia Islam whose history dates back more than 1,000 years. They trace their leadership through a continuous line of hereditary Imams descended from Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad. Unlike many other Muslim communities, Ismailis believe the Imam is a living spiritual guide for their community. Today, that role is held by Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, who succeeded his father as Imam in 2025. Over the last century, the Aga Khan family has established an extensive international network of institutions through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). These organizations work in areas such as education, health care, architecture, economic development, disaster relief, and cultural preservation in dozens of countries. Alongside these development organizations, the community has also built Jamatkhanas (houses of worship) and several large Ismaili Centers intended to serve as religious, educational, and cultural gathering places. Now Georgia Georgia has now become part of that long-term vision. A major Ismaili Jamatkhana and community campus in Johns Creek has received approvals to move forward. Once completed, it is expected to serve Ismaili Muslims throughout the southeastern United States, much like the Houston center serves Texas and surrounding states. The project represents one of the most significant Ismaili developments in the Southeast and places Georgia among a small number of North American locations selected for a major regional Ismaili institution. What This Means for Georgia The Johns Creek campus is expected to: * Serve as a regional religious and cultural center for Ismaili Muslims throughout the Southeast. * Host religious services, educational programs, cultural events, and community gatherings. * Attract visitors from multiple states. * Become a permanent institutional presence in Georgia for generations to come. Regardless of perspective, the significance is clear; Georgia is becoming home to one of the most prominent Ismaili campuses in North America, joining locations such as Houston in serving as a regional center for the Ismaili Muslim community.