Muslim Names
- Alayah
Origin:
English, ArabicMeaning:
"sublime; joyful"Description:
A modern English variant of the Arabic name Aaliyah, Alayah was likely inspired by the names Amaia, Amaya and Alannah. It could also be an alternative spelling of the Basque name, Alaia, which means "joyful", and it coincides with Alaya, a type of consciousness in Buddhism.
- Zidane
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"growth and progress"Description:
Closely associated with French soccer star Zinedine Zidane, who became the manager of Real Madrid after retiring from play. One of the Arabic names for boys with modern rather than Quranic origins.
- Rayah
Description:
Rayah is a feminine name with multicultural origins and various meaningful interpretations. In Arabic, it means "flag" or "banner," symbolizing leadership and prominence. In Hebrew contexts, it relates to "friend" or "companion." The name has gained popularity in recent years across diverse communities, appreciated for its melodic sound and positive connotations. Rayah blends contemporary appeal with traditional roots, making it attractive to parents seeking a name that crosses cultural boundaries while maintaining a distinctive identity. The name's straightforward pronunciation and beautiful meaning contribute to its growing usage. While still relatively uncommon in Western countries, Rayah represents the modern trend toward names that are both globally accessible and culturally significant.
- Zakaria
Description:
Zakaria is a masculine name of Arabic and Hebrew origin, serving as a variant of Zachariah or Zechariah, which means "God has remembered." This name appears in both the Bible and the Quran, where Zakaria (or Zakariya) was a prophet and the father of John the Baptist (Yahya in Islamic tradition). The name is widely used across Muslim communities worldwide, particularly in North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. In Western countries, this spelling is less common than Zachary or Zachariah but has gained recognition with increasing global cultural awareness. Zakaria offers a meaningful spiritual connection while being recognized internationally, making it appealing to parents seeking a name with religious significance and cross-cultural resonance.
- Tanzila
Origin:
Urdu, Bengali, Tatar, ArabicMeaning:
"sent down from above"Description:
An elegant yet zippy sounding name, Tanzila derives from the term Arabic term tanzīl meaning "sent down, or descended". In Islamic tradition, it is used to refer to the Angel Gabriel descending from above to reveal the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad.
- Ahmed
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"greatly praised"Description:
This variation of Ahmad is one of the most popular Arabic names among Muslim families the world over and is now the most used spelling in the USA. It shares the same root as other popular Arabic names, including Muhammad and Hamid.
- Lujain
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"silver"Description:
A sweet and cheerful Arabic name, offering cute nicknames like Lu and Jaynie. It can also be written as Lujayn, Loujain or Loujayn. Loujain al-Hathloul is a well-known Saudi women's rights activist.
- Hamal
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"lamb"Description:
Alternative for the ultrapopular Jamal.
- Rehaan
Description:
Rehaan is a masculine name with roots in multiple cultures, primarily Arabic, Persian, and Indian origins. The name generally means 'sweet-smelling' or 'fragrant', sometimes associated with the aromatic herb basil or sweet basil. In Arabic culture, it's derived from 'rayhan' meaning compassion or mercy. Rehaan has gained increasing popularity in Muslim communities globally and especially in South Asian countries. The double 'a' spelling gives the traditional name a modern touch while preserving its cultural heritage. This melodic, flowing name offers a beautiful cross-cultural option that works well internationally. Rehaan balances cultural depth with contemporary appeal, making it increasingly popular for parents seeking names with meaningful heritage.
- Atia
Origin:
Roman name, meaning unknownDescription:
Atia Balba Caesonia was a Roman noblewoman who was the mother of Emperor Augustus. As was the practice at the time, she had two sisters also named Atia, Atia Prima and Atia Tertia. The real-life Atia was reportedly a more worthy personage than the scheming Atia on HBO's "Rome."
- Rishaan
Description:
Rishaan is a masculine name of Indian origin that has gained popularity in recent decades. It combines elements that are meaningful in Sanskrit and Hindi traditions. The prefix 'Rish' may connect to 'rishi,' meaning sage or seer, while some interpretations suggest the name means "ray of light" or "one who brings enlightenment." Alternative meanings include "king" or "one who shows the path." Rishaan has grown in usage both within India and among diaspora communities worldwide. Its modern sound appeals to parents seeking names with cultural significance that also work well internationally. The name has a contemporary feel while maintaining strong cultural roots. Its three-syllable rhythm and flowing sound make it both distinctive and pleasing to the ear.
- Shakir
Description:
Shakir is a masculine name of Arabic origin, meaning 'thankful' or 'grateful'. It derives from the Arabic root 'shakara', which expresses gratitude and appreciation. The name is widely used throughout Muslim communities around the world and carries positive connotations of gratitude to God. Shakir appears in Islamic tradition as one of the 99 attributes of Allah. While not among the most common names in Western countries, it has gained recognition globally as cultural boundaries become more fluid. The name is appreciated for its meaningful significance and melodious pronunciation.
- Ayan
Origin:
SomaliMeaning:
"fortune"Description:
The African name Ayan was first seen on the US Top 1000 for boys in 2014. It's both simple and distinctive, a winning combination.
- Zayna
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"beauty, grace"Description:
Zayna is a simplified spelling of Zaynab, the name of the eldest daughter of Muhammad, and also the feminine version of Zayn. Zaina is a widely-used spelling variation. Zainabu is another form of the name, also found in Swahili.
- Sadia
Description:
Sadia is a feminine name with multiple cultural origins. In Arabic, it means 'fortunate' or 'happy,' while in Hindi and Urdu, it carries meanings of 'lucky' or 'blessed.' The name is widely used across South Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa. Sadia has gained modest international recognition through diaspora communities while remaining authentically connected to its cultural roots. The name is appreciated for its melodic quality, positive associations, and cross-cultural appeal. Relatively easy to pronounce in multiple languages, Sadia offers global versatility without losing its distinctive character. Its popularity has remained steady rather than trending dramatically, making it both timeless and contemporary.
- Safir
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"ambassador, messenger"Description:
Also spelled Safeer or Saphir, this rare Arabic name connotes power and beauty.
- Ayub
Description:
Ayub is a masculine name with rich historical and cultural significance across multiple traditions. It is the Arabic and Persian form of Job, the biblical figure known for his patience and faith through suffering. The name appears in the Quran as well, where Ayub is revered as a prophet. The meaning is often given as 'returning' or 'repentant' in Arabic. Ayub has been used for centuries throughout the Middle East, North Africa, Central Asia, and parts of South Asia, particularly in Muslim communities. The name combines simplicity with deep religious and cultural resonance. While not common in Western countries, global migration has brought the name to more diverse communities, where it is appreciated for its cross-cultural history and meaningful associations.
- Magomed
Origin:
Russian variation of Muhammad, ArabicMeaning:
"praiseworthy"Description:
A strong choice for a Muslim child with Russian ancestry. The name is primarily heard in the Caucasus.
- Badar
Origin:
Arabic, HindiMeaning:
"full moon"Description:
Strong name, with a regal, romantic natural imagery image.
- Merve
Origin:
Turkish variation of Marwa, ArabicMeaning:
"white stone"Description:
Merve is derived from Marwa, a significant name in the Muslim community, as it the name of a mountain in Mecca.