Beautiful Arabic Baby Names

The soft and pretty name of one of the wives of the Prophet Muhammad.

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.

A name used in the Middle East but that could easily work in the US. As a girls' name, Nuri can also be a short form of Nuria. It was chosen by Christy Lefteri for the protagonist of her novel, The Beekeeper of Aleppo which may have familiarized people with the name.

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

This traditional Arabic name, found throughout several other Middle Eastern and African languages and cultures, is one of the 99 names of Allah. Colorful and energetic, it was brought into the realm of crossover possibility via the lively personality of Aziz Ansari, stand-up comic and star of "Master of None" as well as a featured actor on "Parks and Recreation," playing cocky Tom Haverford (born Darwish Sabir Ismael Gani).

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

Qadir is a classic Muslim name that represents one of the ninety-nine attributes of Allah. Since the initial Q is pronounced as K, this handsome name is sometimes Anglicized as Kadir.

Muna is a feminine name with origins in multiple cultures, giving it a rich, cross-cultural appeal. In Arabic, Muna (منى) means 'wish' or 'desire,' symbolizing something precious and hoped for. In Swahili and other East African languages, it carries meanings of 'hope' or 'gift.' The name also appears in Old Norse mythology as a river deity. Muna's brevity and melodic quality make it accessible across language barriers, contributing to its growing international usage. The name has gained modest popularity in recent decades, particularly in multicultural communities. Its positive connotations, easy pronunciation, and cross-cultural nature make Muna an increasingly attractive choice for parents seeking a name that's both meaningful and globally accessible.

Shula is a short form often used on its own in Israel. Sula is another, related, option. As an Arabic name, it has a bright, fiery meaning.

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

Lamia is a name with two very different images: from its Arabic roots, it is a bright yet gentle choice with a glowing meaning. As a Greek name however, Lamia appears in mythology as a child-eating monster, who was driven to madness after Zeus's wife Hera took her children away. This latter figure is the inspiration behind the Keats poem of the same name.

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).

The soft and strong name of a 13th-century Persian poet.

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

A short, succinct name with a sound as cheerful as its meaning, Hani is an Arabic name that is particularly popular across Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Iraq, and Palestine. Also used as a feminine name in Indonesia, Malaysia, and India, it is sometimes considered a Hawaiian unisex name, meaning "to move lightly", or occasionally a variation of Johann or Johannes.

A simple and seamlessly international choice with a joyful sound and beautiful meaning.

A name whose sweet sound matches with its meaning, Habiba is popular in Somalia and North Africa. It comes from the Arabic habib meaning "dear, beloved", making it a bright and endearing choice.

Majdi is a masculine name of Arabic origin, derived from the root 'majd' meaning 'glory' or 'honor.' Popular throughout the Middle East, particularly in Palestinian, Jordanian, and Lebanese communities, Majdi conveys admirable qualities of dignity and respect. The name carries positive connotations of achievement and high standing in society. While not widely used in Western countries, its growing presence reflects increasing cultural diversity. Majdi has a melodic quality with its soft 'j' sound and ending vowel, making it both distinctive and pleasing to the ear. For parents seeking a name with deep cultural roots and uplifting meaning, Majdi represents excellence and noble character.