325+ Arabic Names (with Meanings and Popularity)

One of the most appealing Muslim names, both in sound and meaning.

This lovely Arabic name is gaining popularity in the US, used equally for boys and girls. Indeed, its sound (it rhymes with the feminine Tamar but ends with the fashionably masculine -ar sound, as in Oscar) and most logical nickname (Sam) make it a choice that's at once accessible and unsual for both boys and girls.

Peaked in the 1990s.

Raja is a widely-used Arabic or Sanskrit name that works for girls as well as boys. Five baby girls were named Raja and seven given the Rajah spelling in the US last year, where for boys the popularity of the spellings was reversed: 18 Raja to ten Rajah.

To Muslims, an auspicious name.

Unfortunate association with Ugandan dictator Idi Amin.

Name of a son of the Prophet Muhammad, with a particularly positive meaning.

This is a widely used Arabic choice — but Rashad is more popular here. Actress Rashida Jones represents the feminine version.

Commonly used Muslim name, also sometimes chosen to honor Egyptian president Gamal Abdel-Nasser.

This more elaborate version of the name is heard occasionally, but Samira or the related Samara is simpler and just as rhythmic.

Kadeem is a name made familiar by TV actor Kadeem Hardison, a fresher alternative to the better known Kareem.

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.

Distinguished by association with renowned African diplomat Salim Ahmed Salim, this name is popular in many variations throughout the Arab world. Its use is growing in the US as well, especially in its Salem version.

Appealing in part because of its similarity to the likable Omar.

Tahira is a pretty Arabic virtue name, unusual yet accessible.

Talib is a North African name with an admirable meaning, associated with rapper Talib Kweli.

Very popular throughout the Arab world and growing in use in the US as well, where it was given last year to more than 50 baby girls.

A rare Arabic name related to the Hebrew Shalom or Solomon, meaning "peace".

This variation of the popular Arabic name has now been in the Top 500 for several years. It wasn't even in the Top 1000 before the 1980s.

Friendly option: has also been defined as "drinking companion".