Back to search

Is it haram to feel love with the intention of marriage, even if it is impossible due to differences in nationality, and is mixing (between genders) haram, and what should one do in this situation?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

The ruling on love between a man and a foreign woman varies according to its circumstances: If it enters the heart without causing or transgressing God's prohibitions, there is no harm in it. Marriage is preferable, as the Prophet, peace be upon him, said: "Nothing is seen for two who love each other like marriage." However, if the love is due to forbidden looking, or prohibited meetings and correspondence, then it is sinful. As for mixing, it is a general term. If it is the gathering of men and women in one place with adherence to Islamic manners, there is no harm in it. But if any of these conditions are violated, such as displaying adornment (tabarruj) or joking, then it is forbidden. As for marrying this woman, if the rejection is from the family, then they should be convinced that religion does not differentiate between nationalities. If it is due to laws, the authorities do not prohibit it if the woman and her guardian agree. One must beware of Satan's enticement to talk to the woman or to be overly casual in interaction.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

Read the full answer on Ftawy