How does a nikah name look?

Short answer

A nikah name is a marriage contract that records the couple's names, the mahr, witnesses and the date. It is often beautifully written by hand, but there is no single required design.

A nikah name is the written record of your marriage contract. It is prepared by the nikah officiant, often called an imam or qadi, and signed by you, your partner and witnesses. There is no fixed layout, so designs vary by family, region and the person writing it. Some are simple typed sheets, while others are calligraphed on fine paper with borders, verses and floral designs.

The key details that must appear are your full names, your guardian's name if required, the agreed mahr (gift from you to your partner), the names and signatures of the witnesses, the date and the officiant's signature. Many couples also add the Islamic declaration of faith, known as the shahada, and the nikah khutbah. You can choose to include extra details like family names or a short prayer, but check with your officiant first.

If you want the nikah name to also serve as your legal marriage document in England and Wales, it must take place in a building registered for marriages with an authorised person present. A religious ceremony on its own is not legally binding unless these conditions are met. Many couples hold a short civil ceremony at a register office or approved venue to make sure everything is legal. Check GOV.UK or ask the register office if you are unsure about the current rules.