Awesome Arabic Names
- 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.
- 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).
- Karima
- Laila
Origin:
Spelling variation of Layla or Sami variation of Helga, Arabic or FinnishMeaning:
"night; holy"Description:
Beguiling and lovely, Laila is one of the lilting variations of Leila and Layla. It's the name of the former-boxer daughter of Muhammad Ali and of actor Shawn Wayans. In Finland, the Sami people use this in place of the Scandinavian name Helga.
- Leila
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"night"Description:
Leila was popularized in the West by the poet Byron, who used it in his poem Don Juan for a ten-year-old Turkish girl. Leila also appears as a fairy in the Gilbert & Sullivan comic opera Iolanthe.
- Lina
Origin:
Arabic; Latin diminutiveMeaning:
"tender"Description:
This pretty, succinct Arabic name is also commonly used as a nickname for names like Carolina.
- Maryam
Origin:
Arabic, Persian, and Urdu variant of Mary, HebrewMeaning:
"drop of the sea, bitter, or beloved"Description:
Classic Mary has many international variations and the strong, pretty Maryam is the Arabic, Persian, and Urdu form. Popular in many countries across the world, from Azerbaijan to France, The Netherlands to Iran and from England to Russia, Maryam is the form of Mary that appears in the Quran.
- Malaika
- Nadia
Origin:
Russian, ArabicMeaning:
"hope; tender, delicate"Description:
Nadia, an accessible Slavic favorite, has a strong run of popularity in the US in the early 2000s, partially thanks to the character on Lost called Nadia but actually named Noor, but it's since slumped down the rankings. An earlier inspiration was Romanian gymnast Nadia Comaneci, who won the 1976 Olympics.
- Nadira
Origin:
ArabicMeaning:
"precious, rare"Description:
Feminine form of Nadir
- 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.
- 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.
- Naila
- Nasira
- Nazli
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Ruya
- 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.