“We intend that ARAYA’s activities will aim to assist humanity in living together peacefully and harmoniously, even with religious differences, while supporting those interested in Islam to experience and learn about it without facing coercion or distress.”

Yaoharee Lahtee , Founder

Nikah is the Islamic marriage ceremony, a sacred union between two Muslims following the principles of Islam. To put it in perspective, Nikah in Islamic culture is similar to how other religions have their own wedding traditions. For example, Buddhists have the morning water-pouring ceremony, while Christians marry in a church in front of a priest. Likewise, Muslims celebrate Nikah, a marriage ceremony grounded in Islamic teachings.

The Components of Nikah (Islamic Marriage):

The five key components that complete a Nikah (Islamic marriage) are as follows:

• The Bride and Groom (both must be Muslims) how to convert to muslim click.
• Wali (Guardian): The bride’s guardian, either by birth or temporarily appointed.
• Offer and Acceptance of Marriage: A formal statement made between the bride’s guardian and the groom.
• Witnesses to the Marriage: There must be at least two male witnesses.
• Mahr (Dowry): A gift or dowry given to the bride.

When all these components are fulfilled, the Nikah, or Islamic marriage, is considered complete.

The atmosphere of a Nikah ceremony, officiated by a religious leader in Thailand, organized by ARAYA company.

The venue for a Nikah

The venue for a Nikah ceremony can be held anywhere, depending on the convenience of the hosts. It is commonly held at the bride’s or groom’s house, a mosque, or a hotel that can accommodate the event. However, organizing halal food, prayer rooms, and ensuring proper care for the religious officiant are important factors in selecting a venue. Currently, ARAYA company selects venues both within and outside of the Muslim market, or develops new venues that couples love, adapting them to appropriately accommodate Islamic weddings. They use their network of partners to plan essential elements such as halal food and other services.

Can an Islamic wedding include exchanging rings, receiving blessings, or a traditional bridal procession?

o answer this, it’s important to understand that a wedding generally consists of two parts: the religious part, called Nikah, and the cultural traditions of the couple’s society. For example, hosting a celebratory meal after the Nikah, or modern customs like exchanging rings, engagement, and formal proposals.

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to these questions because the customs vary based on the couple’s cultural background. Even within Muslim communities, wedding traditions can differ.

So, what’s the right approach? At ARAYA, we have a team that provides advice, mediates cultural differences, and designs weddings that fit each couple’s unique situation. Feel free to reach out to us for personalized guidance!

How to Begin the Nikah Process if You’re Not Muslim?

If you are from a non-Muslim background and planning to marry a Muslim, the first step is to learn about Islam and formally embrace the faith before the wedding day. There are many ways to learn about Islam, such as attending Islamic educational institutes that offer free courses for those interested. Additionally, our company has developed a special program called “Islamic Marriage Preparation for Multicultural Families,” which combines learning about Islam in a way that is friendly and supportive for multicultural families.

After completing the program, we provide certification for both the Islamic studies and the formal conversion to Islam, with witnesses present. This course is specifically designed to help couples from different cultural backgrounds, ensuring that both families are respectfully taken care of during the process.

Want to Plan an Islamic Wedding but Don’t Know Where to Start?

Begin with us at ARAYA in Thailand, your safe zone for Islamic weddings. We prioritize protecting women and children, while honoring and respecting cultural differences. Nikah In Thailand