Are superficial sexual practices, fondling, and kissing between engaged couples considered zina (fornication/adultery) and unlawful, knowing that marriage is imminent?

The fiancée is a stranger to the suitor as long as the marriage contract has not been concluded with her. Therefore, it is not permissible for him to be in seclusion with her, touch her, or speak with her without a legitimate need. What the questioner did with his fiancée is a violation of sacred limits and a type of zina (fornication/adultery), for the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "The zina of the eyes is looking, the zina of the ears is listening, the zina of the tongue is speaking, the zina of the hand is touching, the zina of the leg is walking, and the heart yearns and desires, and the private parts affirm or deny that." The questioner's statement, "My intention is that she is your wife," is invalid and does not change the impermissibility of this act. He must perform sincere repentance by refraining from the act, regretting it, and resolving not to return to it, while keeping away from the preludes to sin. He should hasten the marriage when possible; otherwise, he must fast and guard his hearing and sight, strive for the company of righteous people, and frequently supplicate and seek refuge in Allah.