Arabic Boy Names

Streamlined spelling of the biblical name, as in basketball great Isiah Thomas, falling fast from its height in the charts.

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

Worldly and evocative.

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

Strong name, with a regal, romantic natural imagery image.

An Arabic name with Quranic connections -- it represents one of the essential qualities -- that would have no trouble assimilating. Sabira or Sabirah is a form used for girls, and Sabri can be used for either sex.

Long associated with Egyptian-born actor/bridge expert Omar Sharif, also a title bestowed on descendants of Muhammad.

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

To Muslims, an auspicious name.

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.

Intriguing David alternative, though American tongues will have trouble wrapping themselves around three vowels in a row.

A unique baby name made user-friendly by incorporating the familiar shaq sound.

Name of a great Indian Mogul king, a Matt Groening cartoon character, and many Indian restaurants.

Near Eastern name with lots of opportunities for variation and improvisation.

A strong name with a strong meaning, like its cousin Zafir.

For several years this name ranked high with African-American parents, but it's definitely started to slide.

Spelling variant Ameer is much less popular than the original. An Amir is a ruler in the Arab world.

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