Mutual consent is typically expressed verbally, although it might also be mentioned in your written contract.
Some mosques suggest that both the bride’s father and brother (if she has one) attend the ceremony with her. In addition to her father, some mosques require the bride to have an additional family member present to serve as her guardian or “wakeel. “[4] X Research source
Some mosques require that your witnesses personally know both the bride and the groom, or at least the bride. [6] X Research source The bride’s wali normally cannot also serve as a witness. But if the bride’s brother is also present, he could be a witness.
The recommended Mahr is modest and limited by law in some countries. For example, in the UAE, Mahr is limited to AED 20,000 (or AED 30,000 for deferred Mahr). [8] X Research source Talk to your betrothed about the Mahr well before the Nikah and make sure you’re both on the same page about what it will be. Your families might want input as well—traditionally, the bride’s family has some say in the size of the Nikah.
What you promise in the contract is totally up to you. For example, a groom might promise to support his bride as she completes her college education.
Traditionally, officiants are men, but some more progressive communities allow female officiants. It’s really up to you as a couple who you choose.
You could also have the ceremony at a mosque and then follow up with a banquet later at the groom’s family home or another location. Just keep in mind that Islamic principles discourage lavish spending for these sorts of events. [12] X Research source
The counseling session is typically conducted by the imam who will be officiating and usually only takes an hour or two. In places where this is a requirement, it’s only because the imam has to attest to the local government that they believe the couple is ready to be married.
If you’re getting married in an Islamic country, the imam usually takes care of registering the marriage with the government for you after the Nikah is complete. [15] X Research source
Typically, the bride and groom will be brought out to the stage separately as well. There might also be a wall or curtain separating you for most of the ceremony.
If someone other than an imam is officiating your Nikah, they likely won’t give a full sermon. They might recite from the Qur’an, though. There is never any music during the Nikah—it is absolutely haraam, or forbidden. [18] X Research source
In some Nikah ceremonies, the imam will ask the question to both the bride and the groom, each of whom must say “I accept,” or “I do. " You’ll go over this with your officiant before the ceremony, so you’ll know what to say. [20] X Research source
Some imams prefer if the witnesses go ahead and sign the contract before the ceremony itself. This just helps things run a little more smoothly because you’re not waiting for 4 or 5 people to sign a piece of paper. [22] X Research source
The size and scale of the banquet varies greatly among cultures, and also depends on the finances available. Islamic principles caution against lavish spending, but what you consider “lavish” depends on the size of your bank account! It’s perfectly acceptable to wait a few days after the Nikah to have your banquet. There’s no religious requirement that the banquet immediately follow the ceremony.
Cultural traditions vary, so talk to the bride or groom about expected attire—they’ll be able to give you some helpful suggestions.
You might also want to add a small mark or sticker to the inside of your shoes so you can easily identify which ones are yours when you leave.
His and hers attar set: Traditional Muslim and Arab cultures predominantly use these alcohol-free perfumes. They’re a long-lasting and thoughtful gift. Islamic calligraphy canvas: Because Islam forbids art that depicts living things, calligraphy is a popular choice to decorate Islamic homes. 99 Names of Allah painting: This is another decorative item sure to be appreciated by a Muslim bride and groom.
At the banquet after the Nikah, things are usually a little looser. But you’ll likely notice that men largely stay with men and women with women. Just follow what other people are doing and you’ll be fine.
