The heart of spiritual Dushanbe: three years of Tajikistan’s main mosque

Three years ago, Tajikistan officially opened its largest cathedral mosque in Dushanbe, named after Imam Azam. Today, the Grand Cathedral Mosque is recognized as one of Central Asia's largest religious complexes and a prominent symbol of Tajikistan's spiritual and cultural identity. Beyond its function as a place of worship, the mosque showcases intricate Islamic architecture, detailed wood carving, decorative painting, and artistic design.

The mosque complex, situated on a 12-hectare site in the capital, features expansive prayer halls, a library, a museum, and various social and educational facilities. Construction began with a groundbreaking ceremony in October 2009, involving thousands of workers over several years. The project's total cost reached nearly $100 million, with Qatar reportedly providing over half of the funding. Although construction concluded in 2019, the official inauguration was delayed until June 8, 2023.

Officially inaugurated by President Emomali Rahmon and Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the mosque complex harmoniously blends traditional Tajik architectural elements with elegant Middle Eastern design. It can accommodate up to 133,000 worshippers, with 43,000 inside the main building and approximately 90,000 in the surrounding outdoor areas. The mosque has become one of Dushanbe's most recognizable landmarks.

While many residents consider the mosque a landmark of national importance and a hub for religious life, the substantial investment has drawn criticism. Some question whether these funds could have been better allocated to poverty reduction and social development programs. An Asia-Plus correspondent visited the complex on its third anniversary to examine its architecture, facilities, and atmosphere.