How long does a nikah ceremony take?
If you are planning a nikah, one of the first questions is how long to allow. The ceremony itself is short, but the whole day, with paperwork, photos and a walima, can be long. Here is a typical timeline.
The nikah itself: 15 to 30 minutes
- Arrival and seating. The imam, groom, wali and witnesses are seated. The bride may be present or represented, depending on custom.
- Khutbah. A short talk on marriage, often with verses and a hadith. This can be five minutes or longer.
- Offer and acceptance. The wali offers the bride in marriage, and the groom accepts, in front of two witnesses. See what is nikah?
- Mahr. The mahr is stated. See what is mahr?
- Signing. The nikah contract or certificate is signed and witnessed. See the Islamic marriage contract.
- Dua. The imam makes a dua for the couple, and guests congratulate them.
If you also have a legal ceremony
If the legal marriage is held at the same time, such as with a registrar present, allow extra time for declarations and signing the register. See nikah in the UK and nikah in London.
The whole wedding day
A full day can include photographs, a reception or walima, speeches, food and family traditions, and can run for several hours. Some couples hold a short nikah with family, and the celebration on a different day. See what is walima? and how to plan a simple Muslim wedding.
Tips
- Ask the imam how long they take, and what they need from you beforehand.
- Agree the mahr and any conditions before the day.
- Have your documents ready.
- Keep the nikah and the celebration separate in your plan, so one does not rush the other.
Read Muslim wedding FAQ and the Muslim wedding checklist. Looking for someone to marry? Zawaj is a Muslim marriage app, free to join.