It is the main place of worship for the local Dawoodi Bohra community.

[1] The Dawoodi Bohra branch of the Isma'ili Shi'a had a significant presence in Singapore, mainly through immigrants, in the late 19th century.

[2][3] In 1864, it was recorded in a letter that the Shi'ite religion was being adhered to by some of the Malays who celebrated Muharram.

[4][5][6] The mosque was built on land owned by the Essabhai Motabhai family, which they renewed in 1895.

[6] The 52nd Da'i, Mohammed Burhanuddin, also further approved of the project during his own visit.