Answered by Shaykh Yūsuf Badāt

Question:

If a girl and boy accept each other as husband and wife with only Allāh as a witness, is that considered a valid nikāh?

Answer:

Jazāk Allāh Khayr/ Thank you for your question.

In order for an Islamic nikāḥ/ marriage to be valid, the following conditions are required:

• Consent of both parties marrying (offer and acceptance)
• At least two Muslim witnesses
• Bridal gift (mahr) from the groom to the bride
• Permission for the bride from her guardian

Since the above mentioned conditions are not found in the described scenario, such a marriage would be incomplete and invalid.

And Allāh Knows Best