The Ismaili Centre is the finest piece of contemporary architecture in Dushanbe — a building that engages intelligently with both Islamic architectural tradition and modern design. The exterior uses white marble and glass in layered forms that reference traditional Ismaili design principles; the interior is open, light-filled, and serene.
Non-Ismaili visitors can view the building from the outside and, on some occasions, enter the public areas. The surrounding gardens are well-maintained and open to visitors. The centre is a short taxi ride from the city center, in a leafy residential area. Even if access is limited, the exterior is worth seeing.