Is the relationship between a husband and wife, without consummation during the engagement period and then marriage, considered Islamically permissible?

There is a need for clarification regarding the engaged couple. If the legal marriage contract has been concluded between them, then each of them is permitted what is permissible between spouses. However, if it has not been concluded, then each of them is a stranger to the other, and thus, private seclusion (khalwa) and physical touch between them are not permissible. They must offer sincere repentance, seek forgiveness, and perform righteous deeds, for Allah is Forgiving and Merciful to those who repent and reform.