1. Consent of both spouses
A nikah requires the free agreement of the bride and the groom. Neither may be married against their will. Families guide and advise, but the decision belongs to the two people who will share their lives.
2. The wali
The wali is the bride's guardian, usually her father, then grandfather, brother or another close male relative. Most scholars hold that the wali's involvement is a condition of the nikah; the Hanafi school allows an adult woman to contract her own marriage, while still recommending the wali's involvement. Whatever your madhab, involving the wali protects the bride and brings the families together. On Weds.me you can add your wali's details, which are shared only with matches you accept.
3. Two witnesses
The nikah is witnessed by two adult, sane, trustworthy Muslim witnesses who hear the offer and acceptance. Many families also invite relatives and friends, as marriage in Islam is meant to be public, not secret.
4. The mahr
The mahr is a gift from the groom to the bride and belongs to her alone. It can be money, gold, property or something of benefit, and its amount is agreed between the two sides. It may be paid at the nikah (muajjal) or deferred to a later date (muwajjal). Keeping the mahr reasonable and paying it in full is strongly encouraged.
5. Ijab and qabul
The heart of the ceremony is the offer (ijab) and acceptance (qabul), spoken clearly in the same sitting before the witnesses. The qazi or imam typically recites the khutbah of nikah, asks for consent, records the mahr and has the nikahnama signed.
6. The walima
The walima is the wedding feast hosted by the groom after the marriage, announcing it to family and community. It is a Sunnah that need not be lavish. Our venue and halal catering listings can help.
7. Civil registration
In many countries a religious nikah is not legally recognised on its own. Register the marriage with the civil authorities where you live, and keep a copy of the signed nikahnama. A qazi can usually advise on local requirements.
Before the nikah
- Meet in the presence of family and ask each other the questions that matter: deen, finances, where you will live, children, careers and expectations.
- Pray salat al-istikhara and ask for guidance in the decision.
- Consider a pre-marriage course to prepare for married life.
- Read our safety guidelines before sharing personal details with anyone you meet online.
- See Quran verses on marriage to recite at the nikah or print on your cards.