The community which is established by some Shi'a Indian emigrants, provides religious services to Shi'a Muslims of the area. Its mission is to enable its members to promote the values and practices of the Islamic Shia Ithna Ashari Ja'fari Faith for the spiritual, social, educational and economic well being of the community.

The Shia Muslim Community of British Columbia dates back to 1967, when a few members of its community immigrated to Vancouver. In 1975, the Jamaat was formed and formalized by signing its first constitution which led to its official registration on June 9, 1975.

In 1978, the community decided to build its own Imambara instead of renting halls. A three- quarters acres site with a residence was purchased at 3360 Sexsmith Road in Richmond, BC. The Jamaat built a facility just less than 8,400 square feet at a total cost of about $300,000. The members of the Jamaat, and other Jamaats Worldwide, provided physical and financial support.

The new centre is named Az-Zahraa Islamic Centre and is located at 8580 No. 5 Road, Richmond, B.C. It was officially opened on August 25, 2002. The 55,000 square foot facility has a Mosque, Imamabara, Islamic School, Madrasah, and a number of other facilities.

• Islamic School and religious education (Al-Muntazir Madressa)
• Az-Zahraa Islamic Academy (AZIA): an independent Pre-school through Grade 7 school
• Funeral Services
• Kitchen
• Gym and Sport