Nikkah Request Policy

Islamic Center of Owings Mills · Community Services · Updated July 2026

1 Purpose

This document outlines ICOM's process, fees, and requirements for couples wishing to hold a nikkah (Islamic marriage contract ceremony) at the Islamic Center of Owings Mills, or to request Imam Haris to officiate a nikkah off-site.

2 Request Process

To request a nikkah at ICOM, or to request Imam Haris as officiant, contact Amna at amna@icommd.org with the following information:

• Names of the couple
• Requested date and time
• Whether ICOM's Imam or an outside officiant will be performing the ceremony
• Expected number of guests

Requests involving an outside officiant are subject to review and approval by Imam Haris before the booking is confirmed (see Section 5).

3 Fee Structure

There are three ways a nikkah may be arranged through ICOM:

A. Full Service at ICOM (Imam Haris officiates, ceremony held at ICOM)

B. Space Only at ICOM (outside officiant, approved in advance)

The officiant must be submitted to and approved by Imam Haris prior to booking confirmation.

C. Imam Haris Officiates Off-Site

4 Setup, Breakdown, and Security Deposit

As with all facility use, setup and breakdown of the space used for the ceremony (chairs, decor, and similar items) is the responsibility of the couple or host and is not included in the fees above. A refundable security deposit of $250 is required at booking to protect the Masjid in the event the space is not properly restored. This deposit will be returned within seven business days once ICOM staff confirm the space has been properly broken down and cleaned.

If the reception will also make use of the Fellowship Hall, the Fellowship Hall Rental Policy applies separately, including its own fees and security deposit.

5 Officiant Approval (Outside Officiants Only)

Any officiant other than Imam Haris must be submitted for approval, including:

• Full name and contact information
• Credentials (ijazah, certification, or affiliation with a recognized Islamic institution)
• A brief description of their relevant experience officiating nikkah ceremonies

This information must be submitted at least two weeks before the event. Imam Haris holds final approval over any officiant using ICOM's facilities.

6 Legal Documentation

Couples are required to bring all legally required marriage paperwork to the ceremony in order for the nikkah to proceed. Exceptions will be considered only in exceptional circumstances, such as a documented processing delay, and must be approved in writing by Imam Haris before the event. Requests for an exception made the day of the event will not be granted.

7 Musallah and Space Etiquette

Because the nikkah ceremony takes place within or adjacent to a place of worship, all attendees are expected to observe the following:

• Modest dress is required for all attendees. Clothing should be loose-fitting and fully covering; tight, sheer, or low-cut clothing is not appropriate.
• Shoes must be removed before entering the musallah.
• Appropriate boundaries between non-mahram men and women should be maintained throughout the ceremony, consistent with Islamic etiquette.
• Photography and videography should not disrupt worship and should be coordinated with ICOM staff in advance; photography is not permitted during salah.
• No alcohol or non-halal food or beverages are permitted on the premises.
• Decorations may not damage the musallah. Nails, adhesive tape, confetti, and open flames are not permitted.

8 Payment and Confirmation

A nikkah booking is confirmed only once full payment has been received and a signed copy of this policy is on file. Payment may be made by check, Zelle, or another method approved by ICOM administration.

For scheduling questions, contact Amna at amna@icommd.org. Questions about officiant approval or religious requirements should be directed to Imam Haris.