Does a Muslim have to have an arranged marriage?

Answer 1

No, a Muslim does not have to have an arranged marriage. Islam allows for both arranged and self-initiated marriages, as long as the process is conducted within the boundaries of Islamic principles.

🕌 What Islam Actually Says

In Islam, the core condition for a valid marriage is mutual consent from both the man and the woman. This means:

The woman cannot be forced into a marriage she doesn't want.

The man must also agree willingly.

Families can help facilitate, but they cannot impose.

This is supported by a Hadith in Sahih Bukhari (5138) where a woman came to the Prophet ﷺ complaining that her father had married her off without her consent. The Prophet ﷺ gave her the choice to continue or end the marriage — she chose to stay, but only to show others that women must be consulted.

👫 Arranged vs. Self-Initiated: Both Are Halal

Arranged marriage: Family introduces potential spouses. It’s common in many cultures, but Islamically it’s not mandatory — it’s just one method.

Self-initiated (within Islamic bounds): You can find a partner on your own (through school, work, online platforms like SalaamSoulmate), as long as it’s respectful, chaperoned when necessary, and geared toward marriage — not casual dating.

🌐 What SalaamSoulmate Offers

Salaam Soulmate is built exactly for Muslims who want to meet in a halal way — with or without the traditional "arranged" process. Here’s how:

Profiles reflect Islamic values, including deen, family preferences, and marriage readiness.

Family involvement is encouraged but not required from the start — making it ideal for both traditional and modern Muslims.

Matches are curated, so people serious about marriage don’t waste time on casual conversations.

You can think of it as a modern, halal alternative to both arranged marriage and Western-style dating.

Answer 2

In the UK, nobody is compelled by law to have an arranged marriage, but some Muslim groups, and other groups, feel happier with arranged marriages - it's a matter of cultural heritage.