Awesome Arabic Names
- Zahra
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"flower"Description:
Abbreviated form of Zahara that was used by Chris Rock for his daughter and as a middle name by both Eddie Murphy and David Bowie. Compared with the even-more-abbreviated Zara, Zahra may create more spelling problems but clarify pronunciation.
- Yasmin
Origin:
PersianMeaning:
"jasmine flower"Description:
This name, whose sweet and fragrant floral essence has always been widespread across the Near Eastern world, has now landed on US popularity lists in a variety of spellings. It's been dropping precipitously over the past few years, though, perhaps due to a combination of tensions in the Middle East and the fading fashion status of Jasmine itself.
- Salma
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"safe"Description:
Mexican-born actress Salma Hayek lends a large dollop of glamour to this name that would otherwise resemble the middle-aged Selma.
- Suraya
Description:
Suraya is a beautiful feminine name with multicultural origins, primarily from Persian and Arabic languages. It means 'the Pleiades' or 'star cluster,' referring to the constellation. The name has variations across several cultures including Soraya, Thurayya, and Süreyya in Turkish. Suraya carries a sense of celestial beauty and cosmic connection. It has moderate popularity in Middle Eastern, North African, and South Asian communities but remains distinctive in Western countries. The name combines elegance with meaningful astronomical symbolism, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with both cultural depth and natural beauty. Its pronunciation (soo-RAY-ah) flows melodically, adding to its appeal.
- Raisa
Origin:
Russian; Yiddish; ArabicMeaning:
"easygoing; rose; leader"Description:
Known in America via the wife of Soviet head Mikhail Gorbachev; a possibility for parents of Eastern-European descent wanting to move beyond Natasha and Nadia or for parents from the Middle East looking for a name that works in both cultures.
- Samina
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"healthy"Description:
Samina is a little-known name in the US, given to only a handful of baby girls each year, that is prime for wider use. It's attractive, easy to spell and pronounce, and makes a perfect alternative to the waning Samantha. The only problem may be confusion over pronunciation. Native Arabic speakers may pronounce it with equal emphasis on all syllables, but English speakers will say sa-MEE-na (correct) or sa-MY-na (not, but be prepared for a lifetime of corrections).
- Ranya
Description:
Ranya is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Arabic, it means 'delightful to look at' or 'she who looks good,' suggesting beauty and pleasing appearance. The name also has Sanskrit roots where it can mean 'queen' or 'princess.' Ranya has gained popularity in the Middle East, North Africa, and increasingly in Western countries as cross-cultural naming has become more common. The name offers a blend of exotic appeal with relatively straightforward pronunciation for English speakers. Ranya projects elegance, strength, and femininity, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with international flair and positive meanings across cultures. Its royal connotations in some interpretations add a sense of dignity and grace.
- Khadija
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"premature child"Description:
The Prophet Muhammad's first wife and the first convert to Islam, and a very popular name in the Muslim community. It ranks in the Top 200 girls' names in France, Italy and England & Wales (alongside variant Khadijah just below the Top 200).
- Sabeen
Description:
Sabeen is a feminine Arabic name with rich cultural significance. It derives from the Arabic word meaning 'one who follows the right path' or 'one who is at rest.' In some interpretations, it can also mean 'patient' or 'understanding.' The name is widely used in Middle Eastern and South Asian Muslim communities, particularly in Pakistan and Arab countries. Sabeen carries spiritual undertones, suggesting a person who is guided by faith and moral principles. The name has been steadily gaining recognition globally while maintaining its cultural roots. Its melodic sound and meaningful etymology make it an increasingly popular choice for parents seeking a name with both beauty and depth.
- Jibril
Origin:
Arabic variation of Gabriel, HebrewMeaning:
"God is my strength"Description:
An Arabic equivalent to the popular Gabriel, Jibril appears in Islamic tradition as the archangel who acts as an intermediary between God and humans and delivers revelation to prophets. Most notably, Jibril communicated with the Prophet Muhammad and became a constant helper and voice of inspiration to him.
- Rashida
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"righteous"Description:
Rashida is an evocative and alluring name, currently represented by Rashida Jones, daughter of Peggy Lipton and Quincy Jones, who has been featured in The Office, Parks & Recreation, and The Social Network.
- Nadira
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"precious, rare"Description:
A beautiful name with a meaning befitting a treasured baby, Nadira is a feminine form of Nadir. Also spelled as Nadirah and appearing as Nadire in Albanian and Turkish, it means "precious, rare", though is sometimes listed as meaning "treasured" and "unique" too.
- Anisa
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"good-natured"Description:
Phonetic spelling of the Muslim Aanisah, chosen by singer Macy Gray for one of her daughters.
- Zakiyya
Description:
Zakiyya is a feminine name of Arabic origin meaning 'pure,' 'virtuous,' or 'intelligent.' It's related to the masculine name Zaki or Zakiy, with the feminine ending added. The name appears in Muslim communities worldwide and carries strong religious and cultural significance, embodying qualities highly valued in Islamic tradition. Zakiyya has a melodic quality with its three syllables and distinctive 'z' and 'y' sounds. The double 'y' spelling gives it a unique appearance while emphasizing its exotic pronunciation. While uncommon in Western countries, the name has consistent usage in Muslim communities and is sometimes chosen by parents seeking a name with spiritual meaning. Its beautiful sound and positive meaning make it appealing across cultural boundaries.
- Hania
Origin:
Hebrew, PolishMeaning:
"encampment; grace"Description:
This very unusual name, also related to Hannah, was chosen for his daughter by Vin Diesel.
- Sanya
Origin:
Diminutive of Aleksandra, Russian from GreekMeaning:
"defending men"Description:
An alternative to Sasha, another common Russian nickname for Aleksandra.
- Nura
Description:
Nura is a beautiful feminine name with multicultural roots. In Arabic, it means 'light' or 'illumination,' symbolizing brightness and guidance. The name also appears in Aboriginal Australian languages, where it can mean 'place' or 'country.' In Hebrew contexts, it's related to the word for 'fire.' Nura has gained popularity in diverse communities worldwide for its melodic sound and positive connotations. It's particularly cherished in Muslim families but crosses cultural boundaries with ease. The name's brevity and flowing pronunciation make it both distinctive and accessible. Nura conveys qualities of radiance, warmth, and spiritual illumination, making it a meaningful choice for parents seeking a name that embodies enlightenment and beauty.
- Navid
Description:
Navid is a masculine name of Persian origin meaning 'good news' or 'bearer of good news.' The name derives from the Persian word 'navid' (نوید), which connotes joyful tidings or glad announcements. Popular in Iran and among Persian diaspora communities, Navid has gained some recognition internationally due to its pleasing sound and positive meaning. The name appears in Persian literature and poetry, adding to its cultural significance. With its short, easy-to-pronounce format, Navid works well cross-culturally while maintaining its Persian identity. The name has moderate usage in Western countries, particularly in multicultural communities. Its optimistic meaning makes it appealing to parents seeking a distinctive yet meaningful name with Middle Eastern heritage.
- Faiza
Origin:
Feminine form of FaizMeaning:
"victorious, triumphant, successful"Description:
Also appearing as Fayza, Faizah, Fayiza, and Feyza (in Turkish), Faiza is a strong-willed and ambitious name of Arabic origin. It comes from the word Fa'iz meaning "successful". Notable bearers include journalist Faiza Ambah and economist Faiza Shaheen.
- Adnan