Is it permissible for a Muslim man to remain married to his non-Muslim wife who refuses to embrace Islam, and is the questioner considered unjust towards the non-Muslim woman if she marries the man?

Islam does not approve of a relationship between a man and a woman before marriage, even if it is for the purpose of marriage. The legitimate way is for the suitor to propose to the guardian, and the relationship remains as between strangers until the marriage contract is concluded.

Regarding a man staying with his wife who refused Islam: if she is from the People of the Book (Jewish or Christian) and chaste, there is no objection to marrying her or remaining with her, based on the Almighty's saying: {And [lawful for you are] the chaste women from among those who were given the Scripture before you} (Al-Ma'idah: 5).

However, if she is not from the People of the Book (such as a pagan or a communist), it is not permissible for him to remain with her, based on the Almighty's saying: {and do not hold on to the marriage bonds of disbelieving women} (Al-Mumtahanah: 10).

A man marrying a second wife is not an injustice to his first wife, as he has the right to marry as long as he is capable of being just between his wives.