Is a secret nikah valid?

“Performing a secret nikaah is against the Islamic teachings. The Hadith commands that the nikaah be publicized and done openly so that it becomes a means for people to know that the girl and boy are married and their remaining together is permissible.”

“We constantly advise against secret marriages due to its implications and consequences as understood from the query. It is not permissible to abort the pregnancy. The sanctity of life is more important than one’s reputation.”

“The Darul Ifta is not in favour of secret Nikaahs. Furthermore, Fuqaha (Jurists) state that there should be compatibility in wealth between the boy and girl. Compatibility in wealth is that the husband has the ability to give Mahr and Nafaqah (expenses) to the wife for a month.”

“In principle, for a Nikaah to be valid, the offer and acceptance (ijab wa qabul) by both parties (or their wakeel) must occur in the presence of at least two Muslim male witnesses who hear the offer and acceptance together in that same session.”