Can someone help explain this to me? I have tried to look it up on Wikipedia but I am still confused. I thought temporary marriages were banned in Islam? How can a proper Islamic marriage be temporary and without obligations? Is this permitted in Islam and if so, why?

Busy days for Saudi matchmakers
Published: Monday, 15 May, 2006, 11:35 AM Doha Time

RIYADH: Professional matchmakers in Saudi Arabia have boosted their business by 60% following the legalisation of ‘misyar’, a temporary marriage without obligations.

The Saudi newspaper Arab News said one reason why people resort to such secret but legal options is to avoid family responsibilities and others such as housing a woman and rearing her children.

The paper said ‘misyar’ has grown in popularity in the business community, among educated people and among women with private income as well as with the poor.

The increasing number of unmarried women is why such marriages have become more acceptable, said the paper. – DPA