Am I obligated to obey my mother by not marrying a suitable man, despite my desire to marry, when she considers him a stranger due to the absence of prior dating?

We congratulate the questioner on her embrace of Islam and pray for her. We clarify for her that marriage in Islam is based on engagement (khitbah) and contract (aqd). The prospective groom and bride are permitted to see each other for acquaintance. It is stipulated to inquire about the suitor and verify his religiosity and character. It must be known that Islam does not permit relations between a man and a woman who are not married (ajnabiyah) before marriage, except within the limits of permissible viewing and in the presence of a mahram for arranging the contract. If the mother rejects the suitor for an illegitimate reason, her obedience is not obligatory. However, if the rejection is for reasonable causes, then it is better to obey her. For the validity of the marriage, the presence of a wali (guardian) is a condition. This is the father, then the closest male relatives (agnates) in order of proximity. If there is no Muslim wali, then the Muslim judge or the Imam of the Islamic Center will act as her guardian in marriage.