Arabic names for girls are elegant and exotic. While some like Yasmin, Aisha, and Aliyah are making an impression outside the Middle East, others remain undiscovered.
This article will discuss a spectrum of Arabic female names to give you plenty of options to choose from. Whether you want something popular and modern or unique and traditional, we are confident that you’ll find some favorites for your baby on the way.
100 Pretty Arabic Names for Girls
Keep reading to discover these mesmerizing Arabic girl names below!
Abla
Abla is an Arabic girl’s name meaning “full-figured” or “well-rounded.”
In Turkey, Abla is also a term for a big sister. A famous bearer was Abla, the lover of warrior-poet Antarah. He was initially enslaved, which prevented him from marrying her. However, after proving himself in battle, Antarah was freed and married his true love.
Antarah wrote many poems about Abla, which have inspired several modern works, including Symphony No.2 by Russian composer Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov and Antar and Abla: A Bedouin Romance by Diana Richmond.
Abrar
Abrar is a religious choice among our Arabic girl names, meaning “virtuous.”
In the Quran, Abrar is a term for people who are pious and righteous in the eyes of Allah. This unisex name is usually given to males, such as Pakistani politician Abrar-ul-Haw and T.V. actor Abrar Qazi. Still, Abrar could be an excellent selection for your daughter, especially if your family is Muslim!
Adalet
Adalet is a virtuous option among our Arabic female names, meaning “justice.”
It is derived from the Arabic word “adala,” meaning “to act justly” or “fairness.” This mighty name is primarily used in Turkey, with bearers like novelist Adalet Ağaoğlu, a leading figure in 20th-century Turkish literature, and art curator Adalet Cimcoz, the proprietor of Turkey’s first woman-owned private art gallery.
Ada, a potential nickname, is very trendy in the U.S., ranked #184 in 2020. It’s typically a shortened form of the Germanic names Adelaide or Adelina. So, Adalet could be a fresh take.
Ahlam
Ahlam is an Arabic name for girls meaning “dreams.”
Ahlam refers to dreams you have at night, including your desires and aspirations. Many famous Ahlam’s have followed their “dreams” and made it to the top, including prominent Emirati singer Ahlam Al Shamsi and world-renowned novelist Ahlam Mosteghanemi. Another pretty spelling is Ahlaam.
Aisha
A popular choice among our Middle Eastern names for girls, Aisha means “she who lives” or “womanly” in Arabic.
Aisha is prevalent throughout the Arab world. It’s also a popular choice in the U.S., especially among Muslim women, ranked #533 in 2020.
Many spelling variations exist, including Aicha, Aisya, Aisyah, and Ayesha, so you could easily find one that feels right for your baby girl!
An influential namesake, Aisha, was the youngest wife of Muhammud, who nobly served the Islam community for 44 years after the prophet’s death.
Aliyah
Aliyah is an Arabic girl’s name meaning “lofty” or “exalted.”
It is the feminine form of Ali, a companion of the Prophet Muhammud who ruled the Islam nation after his death. Other spellings include Alia, Aliya, or Aaliyah. The double “A” spelling is the most popular in the U.S., ranked #65 in 2020.
This sophisticated title belonged to several royals, including Alia al-Hussein, Queen of Jordan, Alia Tabbia, Princess of Jordan, and Aliya bint Ali, Queen of Iraq. Another queenly bearer was American singer Aaliyah Dana Haughton, nicknamed the “Queen of Urban Pop.”
Amal
Amal means “hope” in Arabic.
Amal is used throughout the Middle East, especially in Lebanon, where it’s associated with the Amal Movement – a political party affiliated with the Muslim Shia community.
In the U.S., most will associate Amal with human rights activist Amal Clooney, wife of the famous American actor, George Clooney. Amal is yet to make the U.S. top 1,000, so now could be the time to pick it before it’s too mainstream.
Amina
Amina is an elegant choice among our Arabic female names, meaning “devoted” or “truthful.”
Pronounced AH-mee-nah, Amina is the feminine form of Amin. It was the name of the Prophet Muhammud’s mother, who passed away when he was young. Other equally attractive spellings are Ameena, Ameenah, Amineh, and Amna. An adorable nickname is Mina.
Anisa
Anisa is an Arabic girl’s name meaning “friendly.”
Anisa, pronounced a-NEE-sah, is the feminine form of Anis. Anisa is prevalent throughout the Middle East. However, in Turkey and Bosnia, the “E” spelling variations, Enise and Enisa, are more popular. Another version, Anissa, was first made famous by child actress Anissa Jones. In modern times, Anissa is sometimes considered an embellished form of Anna, using the -issa suffix.
Arwa
Arwa is an Arabic girls’ name with three possible meanings: “female ibex,” “fresh,” or “quenched.”
The first meaning, ibex, is a wild goat found in Europe, Asia, North Africa, and East Africa. In Middle Eastern art, an ibex is often associated with fertility, seasonal change, resurrection, constellations, and rainfall.
Arwa is also associated with water, from which the “fresh” and “quenched” meanings are derived. In Dubai, Arwa is the name of a bottled water brand, likely linked to this version of the name.
Arwa was also the Prophet Muhammad’s aunt and two of his cousins, making it a popular choice within the Muslim community.
Aya
A worldly choice among our Arabic female names, Aya means “verse.”
In Arabic, Aya references a verse in a religious scripture like the Bible or the Quran. Aya is also Old German for “sword,” Turkish for “angel,” Chemehuevi Indian for “tortoise,” and Hebrew for “flying swiftly.” Alternative spellings include Ayah and Aiya.
Aziza
Aziza is a strong choice among our Arabic girl names, meaning “powerful.”
A common choice throughout the Middle East and Africa, Aziza is the female version of Aziz. This zingy name has several famous bearers – including Egyptian-Australian academic Aziza Abdel-Halim, who founded the Muslim Women’s National Network Australia (MWNNA), and Singaporean chef Aziza Ali, who opened Singapore’s first Malay restaurant.
In African mythology, the Aziza are a supernatural race that lives in the forest. They use their magic to assist hunters and provide people with practical knowledge (such as using fire).
Azra
Azra is a Middle Eastern girl’s name meaning “virgin.”
Azra is a youthful name relating to purity, similar to the English Virginia or the Hebrew Betulah. It’s a popular choice in Turkey, Bosnia, and Croatia. In the U.S., Azra could be a feminine alternative for Ezra or a unique substitute for Zara.
Azza
Azza is an Arabic name for girls meaning “young female gazelle.”
Pronounced ah-zah, Azza is derived from the root word “azaza,” meaning “it was hard to get,” referencing how gazelles are challenging for hunters to catch. Gazelle’s are quick, beautiful, and graceful, all great qualities for your daughter to embody!
This elegant name has many influential bearers, including Egyptian women’s rights activist Azza Soliman and documentary filmmaker Azza El-Hassan, who captures the everyday hardships of Palestinians living in exile.
Calafia
Calafia is a literary creation.
Calafia was first used by 16th-century poet Garci Rodriguez de Montalvo in his epic novel Las Sergas de Esplandian or The Adventures of Esplandian. It was the name of his fictional queen that ruled the Island of California (the inspiration for the American and Mexican States).
The name was inspired by Califa, the Spanish form of the Arabic name Khalifa meaning “successor.”‘
Dalia
Dalia is an Arabic, Hebrew, and Lithuanian girl’s name with several meanings.
In Arabic, Dalia means “grapevine.” In Hebrew, Dalia means “tip of a branch,” particularly of a grapevine or an olive tree. Additionally, Dalia means “fate” in Lithuanian and is the name of their ancient goddess of destiny.
The Dahlia is also the national flower of Mexico, named in honor of botanist Anders Dahl. It is sometimes spelled Dalia by Mexican natives.
Dinara
Dinara is an Arabic girl’s name with an unknown meaning.
It may have derived from the Arabic dinar, a currency used in several Muslim countries. Or, it could be a derivative of “din,” meaning “religion.”
Dinara is commonly used in Muslim countries of Central Asia, including Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and western Russia.
Famous bearers include Kazakh billionaire and heiress Dinara Kulibaeva and Russian tennis player Dinara Safina.
Dua
Dua is an Arabic name meaning “prayer.”
A great name if your family is of the Muslim faith, Dua is a specific kind of prayer where you ask God for help or assistance.
Historically, Dua was a concept rather than a girl’s name. However, that changed when British pop star Dua Lipa rose to fame with her hit single Be the One in 2015. Her popularity made Dua a top 500 girls’ name in England and the Netherlands. Although Dua is yet to make the U.S. top 1,000, we predict it’ll make the cut in a year or two!
Dunya
Dunya is an Arabic name for girls meaning “world.”
Dunya, also spelled Dunia, is derived from the Arabic word dunyā, meaning “to bring near.”
In the Quran, dunyā is a term describing earthly concerns and possessions. It’s often contrasted with ākhirah, or “the afterlife.” Muslims believe you will end up in Paradise if you are good and don’t get overly attached to your earthly life (dunyā).
Elif
Pronounced eh-LEEF, Elif is the Turkish form of Alif, the first letter of the Arabic alphabet.
During the 1919 revolutionary war in Turkey, field marshal Kemal Atatürk referred to brave women who protected the home front as “Elif’s.” After the war, women were granted the right to vote ahead of many other countries. Soon after, Elif became a popular name for girls, often seen as a symbol of modernity and women’s rights. Elif is still favored in Turkey, ranked as the 2nd most popular girl’s name since 2007.
Elmira
Elmira is a strong Arabic girl’s name meaning “commander of the nation.”
It’s most likely derived from the Turkish “el” meaning “nation,” “people,” or “country,” and the Arabic “amir” meaning “commander.”
Elmira is common in Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Kazakhstan. It’s also prevalent among the high Muslim populations in Tatarstan and the Bashkortostan Republics of Russia.
In the U.S., this elegant “e” name was popularized in the early 1900s by Sarah Elmira Royster, the adolescent sweetheart and short-lived fiancée of Edgar Allan Poe.
Fadia
Fadia is a holy choice among our Arabic female names, meaning “savior.”
Pronounced fa-dee-yah, Fadia is the feminine form of Fadi, the Arabic name for Jesus. This biblical name could be an excellent choice if your family is Christian. An ancient bearer was the wife of Roman general Mark Anthony.
Faiza
Faiza is an Arabian female name meaning “victorious.”
Pronounced FA-ee-za, Faiza is the feminine version of Faiz, derived from the root word “fa’iz” meaning “successful.” Many spelling variations exist, including Fayza, Faeyza, Faihza, and Fayiza.
Namesakes include Egyptian princess Faiza Rauf and journalist Faiza Saleh Ambah, recognized as one of the first female Saudi writers to report for The Washington Post.
Farrah
Farrah is an Arabic name for girls meaning “joy.”
It is derived from the root word “farih,” along with several other Arabic names, including the masculine Faruh, Farhatt, and Farhan and the feminine Afrah, Fariha, and Farhah.
Farrah first hit the U.S. charts in the late 70s, thanks to famous actress and model Farrah Fawcett. The name saw a resurgence in the 2010s, likely because of teen-mom-turned-reality-star Farrah Abraham. Currently, Farrah isn’t in the top 1,000, so now could be the perfect time to choose it before its revival.
Fatima
Fatima is an Arabic female name meaning “to abstain.”
Also spelled Fatimah, Fatima is a traditional Muslim name used throughout the Arab world. A notable bearer was the daughter of Prophet Muhammad and his first wife, Khadija. Fatimah holds a similar position in Islam to Mary in Christianity, seen as an archetype for admirable Muslim women.
Fatima is also a non-Muslim name derived from the town of Fatima in Portugal. The city was named after Fatima, a Moorish princess who was the daughter of a Muslim ruler. In the mid-1900s, Fatima became a popular name among Portuguese and Spanish-speaking Roman Catholics.
Fidda
Fidda is a Middle Eastern girl’s name meaning “silver.”
In the Quran, Lady Fidda was originally from Ethiopia and was captured and brought to Arabia. She was freed by the Prophet Muhammad, who made her the housemaid for his daughter Fatimah. Fidda was a righteous and pious woman who remained faithful to the household throughout her life.
Fidda could be an excellent name for your daughter if your family is Muslim or if you just have an affinity for precious metals!
Ghada
Ghada is a sophisticated choice among our Arabic girl names, meaning “graceful woman.”
Ghada (pronounced GHA-dah) is primarily used in Arabic-speaking countries, typically chosen for elegant and enchanting baby girls! Ghada is also the Arabic word for the white saxaul tree, a hardy plant that can withstand poor soil and drought. It’s regularly mentioned in classical Arabic poetry.
Hafsa
Hafsa is an Arabic name for women meaning “gathering.”
Also spelled Hafsah, Hafsa is prevalent among Sunni Muslims. It is sometimes confused with the Arabic names Hafza and Hafiza, despite being unrelated. A prominent bearer is Hafsah bint Umar, a wife of the Prophet Muhammud, recognized for her scholarly and inquisitive nature. Modern bearers include Moroccan poet Hafsa Bekri and karate champion Hafsa Seyda Burucu.
Hala
Hala is an attractive option within our Arabic names for girls, meaning “halo around the moon.”
Pronounced HA-lah, Hala is a name that’s as beautiful as the night sky. It’s also spelled Halah or Hale in Turkey. This charming name belonged to the wife of Abdul-Muttalib Hashim, the grandfather of Prophet Muhammad.
Halima
Halima is an Arabian name for females meaning “gentle.”
Hamila, also spelled Halimah, Halime, or Halimeh is the feminine form of Halim. It could be a perfect choice if your daughter is mild-mannered.
In Islam, Halima is often associated with the foster mother of the Prophet Muhammad. She took him in when no one else would, ultimately receiving blessings and good fortune for her good deed.
Hana
Hana is a given name with many origins.
In Arabic, Hana is a feminine name meaning “bliss” or “happiness.” It’s also a transliteration of the Hebrew name Hannah, derived from Channah, meaning “grace of God.” Hana is Kurdish for “hope,” Korean for “one,” Hawaiian for “craft,” and Persian and Japanese for “flower.”
In 2020, Hana was ranked #755 in the U.S. compared to Hannah’s #39. So, it could be a great option if you love Hannah but want something a little more original.
Hanifa
Hanifa is an Arabian girl’s name meaning “renunciate.”
Pronounced ha-NEE-fah, Hanifa is the feminine form of Hanif. In Islam, Hanif means “renunciate” – referring to those who, during the pre-Islamic period, renounced idols and maintained the religion of Abraham. The Turkish spelling is Hanife.
Hayat
Hayat is an Arabic name meaning “life.”
Also spelled Hayet, Hayat is derived from “hayiya,” meaning “to live.” It’s considered feminine in Arabic and Persian but masculine in Urdu. A renowned namesake is medical scientist and first female member of the Consultative Assembly of Saudi Arabia, Dr. Hayat Sindi. In 2018, she was ranked as one of BBC’s Top 100 Women.
Hayfa
Hayfa is a Middle Eastern name for girls meaning “slender” or “delicate.”
Pronounced as hie-FA, Hayfa and its alternative Haifa are prevalent throughout the Arab world. Haifa is also the 3rd largest city in Jerusalem, so it could be an appropriate name choice if your family is Muslim or Jewish. A gorgeous bearer is actress Haifa Wehbe, nominated as one of People Magazine’s most beautiful people in 2006.
Huda
Huda is a Middle Eastern name meaning “right guidance.”
Huda can also be spelled Hooda or Houda. It’s technically unisex, but it’s favored for females. Notable bearers include the Iraqi-American CEO of Huda Beauty, Huda Kattan, and Egyptian feminist leader and advocate for women’s suffrage, Huda Sha’arawi.
Humayra
Humayra is an Arabic girl’s name meaning “red.”
Pronounced hoo-mie-RA, Humayra was the Prophet Muhammud’s nickname for his wife Aisha because of her reddish complexion. In the Quran, Humayra was Muhammud’s favorite wife, honored for her intellect and wit. She was also an advocate for women’s education who established the first madrasa (center for education) for women in her home. Other spelling options include the Turkish Humeyra or the Urdu Humaira.
Ibtissam
A happy choice among our Arabic names for girls, Ibtissam means “smile.”
Pronounced eeb-tee-SAM, Ibtissam is an adorable selection for your smiley little girl! It can also be spelled Ibtissame, Ibtiseem, Ibtisseme or Ibtisam. The name is prevalent in Northern Africa, particularly Morocco, with bearers like feminist and human rights activist Ibtissam Lachgar and singer Ibtissam Tiskat.
Ihsan
Ihsan is an Arabian girl’s name meaning “to do what is beautiful towards others.”
It’s derived from the root word “husn,” meaning “beauty.” In Islam, Ihsan is a religious term describing how Muslims should always strive to do what is pleasing to Allah, both in their words and deeds. Ihsan is traditionally a masculine name but has been used as a first and middle name for females in recent years.
Iman
Iman is a common choice among our Arabic girls’ names meaning “faith.”
Pronounced ee-MAN, Iman is derived from the Arabic “amuna,” meaning “to be faithful.” Alternative spellings are Imaan, Imen, or Eman. Iman is typically feminine in Arabic but masculine in Persian. A beautiful bearer is Iman Abulmajid, a model and actress who has been a muse for top fashion designers like Gianni Versace and Calvin Klein.
Inaya
Inaya is an Arabian girl’s name meaning “caring.”
Inaya is the feminine form of Inayat, derived from the Arabic “inayah,” meaning “care” or “concern.” Female names ending in -ya are trending in the U.S., with Arya, Amaya, Freya, and Maya making the top 200 in 2020. So, Inaya could be the next gorgeous addition!
Iqra
Iqra is a feminine Arabic name meaning “read” or “gather.”
Iqra is the first word in the Quran. In modern times, it’s interpreted to mean “read,” however, some scholars believe that it originally meant “gather,” derived from the root word “qra,” meaning to “call out” or “invite to a gathering.” The Turkish spelling is Ikra.
Isra
Isra is an Arabic name for girls meaning “nocturnal journey.”
Pronounced ees-Ra, Isra is a mystical name derived from the Arabic “sara,” meaning “to travel at night.” In the 17th chapter of the Quran, Al-Isra refers to Muhammud’s night journey from Mecca to Jerusalem on a winged steed called a Buraq.
Isra Bhatty is a criminal justice attorney and social intervention expert who advocates for those who don’t have a voice, such as immigrants, the severely disabled, and the incarcerated.
Jamila
Jamila means “beautiful” in Arabic.
Jamila is the feminine form of Jamil. Pronounced as ja-MEE-lah, Jamila can also be spelled Jameela, Jamillah, Gamila, or Djamila in Arabic and Cemile in Turkish. Jamila is as elegant as Cecilia or Amelia, with extra exoticism thanks to the “j.” It was a top 1,000 pick in the U.S. from 1975 to 1995 when it fell off the charts. Perhaps it’s time for Jamila to make a comeback?
Janan
Janan is a Middle Eastern girl’s name meaning “heart” or “soul.”
Pronounced ja-NAN, Janan could be a gorgeous replacement for old-fashioned Janice. Nickname options range from simple Jan to elegant Jana. Janan is relatively uncommon in the Middle East and very rare in the U.S., making it a unique choice across the board!
Jumana
Jumana is a natural choice among our Arabic names for girls, meaning “pearl.”
Pronounced as joo-MA-nah, Jumana could be a great selection if you’re an ocean lover! This aquatic name has several fin-tastic bearers, including Palestinian painter Jumana El Husseini and Lebanese author and women’s rights activist Joumana Haddad.
Kalila
Kalila is a cute Arabic female name, meaning “beloved” or “friend.”
Kalila is the feminine form of Kalil. This adorable girl’s name sounds like a mixture between Kayla and Leila, pronounced as kha-LEE-lah. It can also be spelled Khalila or Kalilah. In the U.S., girly “k” names are all the rage, with Kehlani, Kayla, Kali, and Kylie ranked in the top 300 in 2020. Kalila sounds similar but remains pretty rare, making it a great option if you’re looking for something stylish and unique!
Khadija
Khadija is an Arabic girl’s name meaning “premature child.”
Pronounced kha-DEE-jah, Khadija could be an excellent choice if your daughter is a premie! A notable bearer was the Prophet Muhammud’s first wife, recognized as the first person to convert to Islam.
Khadija has been rising in England and Wales since the early 90s, making its way to #182 in 2020. The name is also prevalent in France, placed #187 the same year.
Lama
Lama is a Middle Eastern girl’s name, derived from Arabic poetry.
The exact meaning of this name is unknown. In poems, Lama often refers to the lips of the poet’s lover, so it’s sometimes thought to mean “dark or luscious lips.”
Lama is supposed to be pronounced as LEM-ah, but is mistakenly said like laa-muh instead. A phonetic spelling of Lema or Lemah may be preferable if you don’t want people to think you named your daughter after the animal!
Latifa
Latifa is an Arabian girl’s name meaning “gentle” or “pleasant.”
Also spelled Latifah, Latifa is a female version of Latif. Everyone’s favorite bearer is a talented American actress and singer Queen Latifah, best known for her roles in Chicago and Bessie.
Latifa is also the name of many real-life royals, including UAE princess Latifa bint Mohammed Al Maktoum and Egyptian Princess Fawzia-Latifa. Naming your daughter Latifa will put her in the company of queens!
Leen
Leen is an Arabic name meaning “tender” or “delicate.”
A close cousin of the Arabic name Layan, Leen is a typical selection throughout the Arab world (and beyond).
In England, Leen is a habitual name that originated in Hereford and Nottinghamshire. It means “at the stream,” derived from the Celtic root “lei” meaning “flow.”
Leen is also prevalent in the Netherlands as a nickname for the feminine Helena or the masculine Leendert.
Leila
Leila is a popular choice among our Arabic girl names, meaning “dark” or “night.”
Leila is a stunning name that’s received worldwide recognition. It means “dark” in Arabic, often given to baby girls born at nighttime.
Leila is currently ranked #205 in the U.S. and is expected to rise to the top 100 in a year or two. If Leila is too conventional for your liking, consider the less common alternatives Laela, Laelah, Laylah, or Leighla.
Lubna
Lubna is a natural Arabic name for girls, meaning “storax tree.”
Pronounced as LOOB-na, Lubna is the Arabic name for the storax tree, known for its aromatic sap used to make incense and perfumes.
A real-life bearer is Egyptian banking pioneer Lobna Helal, while a fictional one is Lubna, the lover of Qays in the classic love story by poets Nizami Ganjavi and Muhammad Fuzuli.
Madina
Madina is an Arabic name meaning “the city.”
It’s derived from the city of Medina in Saudi Arabia. Medina is a holy site in Islam due to it being where the Prophet Muhammad established the Muslim community after his pilgrimage from Mecca. In the U.S., Madina could be a unique (and equally adorable) alternative for Maddy or Madeline.
Maha
Maha is an Arabic girl’s name meaning “oryx.”
An oryx is a deer known for its beauty. The phrase “uyuno ‘I-maha” or “eyes of the maha” is used by Arabic poets to compliment their lover’s eyes.
This sweet name is trendy in Egypt, currently ranked in the top 10. Famous bearers are Egyptian pro goalkeeper Maha Shehata and Jordanian politician/engineer Maha Ali.
Malika
Malika is a royal choice among Arabic female names, meaning “queen.”
Pronounced MA-lee-kah, Malika is the feminine form of Malik. This majestic name is used all over the globe, with namesakes like American sports journalist Malika Andrews, Moroccan singer Malika Zarra, and model Malika Menard crowned Miss France in 2010.
Double “L” Mallika is a Hindu name for girls meaning “jasmine.”
Maryam
Maryam is a Greek, Hebrew, and Arabic name with several possible meanings.
Maryam is the Arabic form of the Greek name Mariam, comparable to the French Marie and the English Mary. It’s a common name in Christian and Islamic cultures because it belonged to Jesus’s mother, Mary.
Maryam also has roots in Egypt, derived from the root “mr,” meaning “love” or “beloved.” In Hebrew, Maryam’s meaning is disputed. It may have derived from the root “mr” meaning “bitter” and “yam” meaning “sea,” altogether “drop of the sea.” Or, it could come from “mry,” meaning “rebellious.”
This multifaceted name is currently ranked #503 in the U.S., making it a semi-popular pick.
Masuma
Masuma is a Middle Eastern baby name meaning “innocent.”
Also spelled Masoomeh or Masoumeh, Masuma is a virtuous name commonly used in the Muslim community.
A noteworthy bearer was Fatimah bint Masuma. She was the sister of Ali Reza, the 8th political and spiritual leader of the Shia Muslims after the Prophet Muhammad. Ali named his sister Masuma to compliment her innocence and purity, essential values in the Islam faith.
Maysoon
Maysoon is an Arabic feminine name meaning “of beautiful face and body.”
Also spelled Maysun, Maysoon is an uncommon Muslim name. It’s most prevalent in Iraq, with bearers like film director Maysoon Pachachi and politicians Maysoon Al-Damluji and Maysoon al-Hashemi. Maysoon Zayid is an American comic of Palestinian descent, recognized as one of the U.S.’s first female Muslim comedians. Adorable nicknames include seasonal May or celestial Sun.
Mona
Mona is a name with many origins.
Mona is a variation of Muna in Arabic, meaning “desire” or “wish.” It’s also English for “moon,” ancient Italian for “my lady,” Sanskrit for “alone,” Scottish for “viking,” Greek for “solitary,” Gaelic for “noble one,” and Persian for “he who lasts forever,” describing God.
Mona is prevalent in Northern Europe, commonly associated with Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting, the Mona Lisa.
In the U.S., Mona was a hip selection in the 30s, 50s, and 60s. This once-popular choice isn’t even in the top 1,000 today. It could be a great option if you’re looking for a unique vintage name with a modern appeal.
Mumtaz
Mumtaz is an Arabic name meaning “the best” or “excellent.”
Mumtaz is used throughout the Muslim world, but most prevalent in Afghanistan, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Brunei, and Turkey.
While Mumtaz is decidedly unisex, the alternative spelling Mumtazah is primarily female. Notable namesakes include Indian film actress Mumtaz Askari Madhvani and Bangladesh folk singer Momtaz Begum, nicknamed “The Music Queen,” after recording over 700 albums.
Munira
Munira is an Arabic female name meaning “bright” or “shining.”
A fantastic option for your little star in the making, pronounced moo-NEE-rah, Munira is the feminine version of Munir. It has never ranked in the U.S., so it could be a pretty alternative for slightly-more-popular Moira or Monica.
Nabila
Nabila is an Arabian name for girls meaning “noble.”
Also spelled Nabilla, Nabeela, Nabillah, and Nabeelah, Nabila is the feminine form of Nabil. This stylish Muslim name has had some success outside the Middle East, making France’s and Spain’s top 500 in the 1990s.
Namesakes include French-Swiss model and TV personality Nabilla Benattia and French freelance journalist specializing in Islamic affairs, Nabila Ramdani.
Nadiyyah
Nadiyyah is an Arabic girl’s name meaning “tender” or “delicate.”
It’s derived from the name Nada, meaning “dew.” While Nadiyyah is more unique than its alternatives Nadia and Nadya, it’s also harder to spell. So, you can select whichever version is right for you!
Naila
Naila is an Arabic name for girls meaning “the achiever.”
Pronounced NA-ee-lah, Naila is the female version of Nail. When English-speakers see Naila, they’ll likely think of building supplies. However, in the Middle East, Naila is often associated with the wife of Uthman, the 3rd caliph of the Islamic community, after the prophet Muhammad’s death.
Najla
Najla is an Arabic name for females meaning “large-eyed.”
Pronounced as naj-LA, Najla can also be spelled Necla or Nejla in Turkish. This could be an excellent option if your daughter is born with big, round eyes. Najla is very popular in Bosnia and Herzegovina, ranked in the top 50 girls’ names since 2012.
Nasim
Nasim is an Arabic name meaning “breeze.”
Nasim is a gender-neutral name prevalent in Lebanon, Pakistan, and Algeria. The Nacim, Nassim, Nesim, and Nessim versions are more common for males, whereas both genders use Nasim and Naseem.
Prominent bearers include Iranian-American actress from Saturday Night Live and New Girl, Nasim Pedrad, and field and track star Naseem Hameed, recognized as the fastest woman in South Asia in 2010.
Nawal
Nawal is an attractive option within our Arabic girl names, meaning “gift.”
Is your daughter a gift from above? Then, consider naming her Nawal! While it’s most commonly thought to mean “gift,” it could also mean “kindness,” “grace,” or “accomplished one.” In Hindu-Urdu, Nawal means “new.” Nawal and its alternative Nawaal are primarily given to girls. However, the name does have some male bearers.
Noor
Another gender-neutral option within our list of Arabic names for girls, Noor means “divine light.”
Noor is derived from An-Nur, the 24th chapter of the Quran meaning “the light.” It’s also a Norse name for the founder king of Norway and a Dutch name equivalent to the English Eleanor. In Estonian, Noor is a surname meaning “young.”
Other common spellings are Nor, Nur, or Nour. You could go for Nura or Noora instead to add a feminine touch.
Nuha
Nuha is an Arabic name for girls meaning “mind” or “wisdom.”
Pronounced NOO-ha, Nuha was the name of the pre-Islamic goddess of the sun worshiped by Northern Arabian tribes. She was given a byname meaning “the elevated sun,” which referenced her position as a sun ruler or as a metaphor for her wisdom.
Nuha should not be confused with Noha, a Shia Muslim elegy about the tragic death of Prophet Muhammed’s grandson, Imam Husayn, who died in the Battle of Karbala.
Qadira
Qadira is an Arabian name for females meaning “capable” or “powerful.”
Pronounced KA-deer-ah, Qadira is the feminine form of Qadir, one of the 99 names of Allah in the Islamic tradition. A phonetic spelling is Kadira.
Qamar
Qamar is an Arabic name meaning “moon.”
Qamar is a common Muslim name throughout the Arab world. While it’s often interpreted to mean “moon,” it can also mean “natural satellite,” “moonlight,” or “brighter by the light of the moon.”
A common spelling variation is Kamar. The Swahili version is Kamaria, which could be a great option if you want something a little more feminine.
Qamar al-Din, or “Moon of the Religion,” is an apricot juice or nectar that Muslims often consume during the holy month of Ramadan.
A namesake is Iranian singer Qamar-ol-Moluk Vaziri, known as the “Queen of Persian music.” She was the first woman in Iran to sing in public without wearing a veil.
Rabi’a
Rabi’a is an Arabic name for females meaning “fourth” or “springtime.”
Rabi’a is an alternate transcription of Raabi’a, meaning “fourth” in Arabic. It’s also the feminine form of Rabi, a male-only name meaning “springtime,” often chosen for babies born in the spring.
An inspirational namesake is Rabi’a of Basra, an 8th-century Muslim saint and Sufi mystic admired for her virtuousness, piety, and devotion to God.
If you like the name without the apostrophe, consider choosing the Turkish Rabia instead.
Rafiqa
Rafiqa is an Arabic name for women meaning “friend.”
Pronounced ra-FEE-kah, Rafiqa is the feminine form of Rafiq, also spelled as Rafeeqa. Even with the added “a,” Rafiqa still sounds a bit manly, which could be good or bad depending on how feminine you want your daughter’s name to be.
A notable bearer is Rafiqa Musoeva, a Tajikistani politician who served as the labor and social protection minister in the early 2000s.
Rania
Rania is an attractive Arabic girl’s name, meaning “to look at.”
Rania, also spelled Raniah, Raniya, and Raniyah, is derived from the Arabic verb “rana” meaning “to gaze.”
Rania is an elegant name that’s super easy to spell and pronounce. Although it’s not currently ranked in the U.S., it’s just broken into the top 1,000 names in Scotland, England, and Wales. So, it has the potential to become a worldwide favorite.
Nickname options include adorable Nia or natural Rain. Impressive bearers are Rania Al-Abdullah, the current queen of Jordan, and Egyptian Olympic swimmer Rania Elwani.
Rashida
Rashida is an Arabic feminine name meaning “rightly guided.”
It is the feminine form of Rashid, one of the 99 names for God in the Islamic tradition. Rashida was semi-popular in the U.S. during the mid-70s, receiving its highest ranking of #536 in 1977. A few famous Rashida’s born during this time include Parks and Rec actress Rashida Jones and American hip-hop DJ Rashida Gonzalez Robinson.
Rayhana
Rayhana is an Arabic name for girls meaning “basil.”
This plant-based name may have derived from the noun “ra’ihah” meaning “scent,” “aroma,” or “fragrance or perfume.” A namesake is Rayhana bint Zayd, a Jewish woman some Muslims consider one of Prophet Muhammad’s wives.
Rayhana is also a variation of the Welsh name Rhianna, meaning “great queen.” The name is often associated with the Celtic fertility goddess Rhiannon.
Reem
Reem is an Arabic feminine name meaning “white deer.”
Also spelled Rim and Rym, Reem is often used in Arabic poetry to describe beautiful women as pure and graceful as deer. Although Reem is primarily given to females, it’s more prevalent for boys in Israel, ranked #78 in 2019.
This gentle name has many prominent bearers, including Princess of Jordan Rym Al-Ali, Saudi Arabian actress Reem Abdullah, and Lebanese bridal fashion designer Reem Acra.
Ruqayya
Ruqayya is an Arabic female name meaning “elevated” or “enchantment.”
Pronounced roo-KIE-yah, Ruqayya is also spelled Ruqayyah, Roghayeh, or Rukiye. It’s derived from the Arabic “ruqia,” meaning “rise,” or from “ruqyah,” meaning “spell” or “charm.”
This magical name is doing quite well in England, ranked #454 in 2020.
An influential bearer is British-Muslim author and winner of the Global Peace and Unity Lifetime Achievement award, Raqaiyyah Maqsood. Ruqayya was also the second eldest daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, noted for her beauty and charm.
Sabah
Sabah is an Arabic and Turkish name meaning “morning.”
Sabah was semi-common in France in the 70s and England in the early 2000s but fell by the wayside.
Sabah remains popular in Lebanon, likely thanks to prominent Lebanese singer Sabah, affectionately nicknamed “The Empress of the Lebanese Song.” She was one of the first Arabians to perform at the Olympia in Paris, Carnegie Hall in New York, and the Royal Albert Hall in London, making her a global sensation.
Sahar
Sahar is an Arabic and Hebrew name meaning “just before dawn.”
Sahar is a feminine name used throughout the Muslim world, especially by Arabic, Persian, Azeri, Turkish, Urdu, and Pashto speakers. In Turkey and Azerbaijan, Seher is more common.
Sahar is also a unisex Hebrew name derived from an ancient Akkadian word meaning “crescent moon.”
Saida
Saida is an Arabic name for girls meaning “fortunate one” or “happy one.”
Saida, also spelled Saidah, Sayda, Saeeda, and Sayeeda is a feminine form of Sa’id. It’s derived from the verb “sa’ada” meaning “to be happy, fortunate, or lucky.”
Saida had some success in Spain and France during the 90s but has lost its mojo. Still, we think Saida is pretty and simple enough to make a great comeback.
Sakinah
Sakinah or Sakina is derived from the Arabic “sukun,” meaning “peace,” “serenity,” or “tranquility.”
In the Quran, Sakina is the Spirit of Peace who descends upon the Prophet Muhammad in times of need. The Prophet and his followers’ unarmed pilgrimage to Mecca was particularly notable when they came across opposing military forces. Sakina came to Muhammad and inspired peace between him and his enemies, enabling them to create the Treaty of Hudaybiyah.
Salma
Salma is an Arabic name for girls meaning “safe.”
It’s derived from the Arabic “salima,” meaning “to be safe.” Common variations are Salama, Salima, Selma or Semila.
In the U.S., Salma made the top 1,000 from 1997 to 2019 but didn’t make the cut in 2020. This gorgeous name is doing much better in Spain and France, ranked #98 and #235 in 2019.
The best-known bearers are Moroccan Princess Lalla Salma and Mexican-American actress Salma Hayek, famous for her roles in Desperado (1995) and Frida (2002).
Samira
Samira is a Middle Eastern female name meaning “night talking companion.”
Pronounced as sa-MEE-rah, Samira is the feminine version of Samir. It’s derived from the Arabic root word “samara,” meaning “to talk in the evening.” Other feminine spellings are Samirah, Sameera, or Sameerah. If you’d prefer something unisex, you could try Samar instead. Samira can be shortened to Sam for a tomboy or Ira for a girly girl, making it a versatile choice!
Sarah
Sarah is the most popular option within our Arabic names for girls, meaning “joy” or “delight.”
It is also a Hebrew name meaning “woman of high rank,” simply translated as “princess.”
In the Hebrew Bible, Old Testament, and the Quran, Sarah is the wife of Abraham, admired for her piety, hospitality, and beauty. Her name is popular among religious and non-religious individuals alike, especially in Europe, North America, and the Middle East.
In the U.S., Sarah has been in the top 100 since 1900, while its alternative Sara is slightly less common, ranked #183 in 2020. It could be a fresher option if Sarah is too run-of-the-mill.
Shakira
Shakira is an Arabian name for women meaning “thankful.”
It is the feminine form of Shakir, derived from the Arabic word “shakara,” meaning “to thank.” The name is inextricably linked with Colombian singer and songwriter Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, nicknamed the “Queen of Latin Music.” She is a worldwide sensation, selling over 80 million records in her prime. A fun nickname is Shaki.
Sharifa
Sharifa is an Arabic girl’s name meaning “virtuous.”
Sharifa (also spelled Shareefa) is the feminine version of Sharif. In the Middle East, the name is given to descendants of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad.
In Hindi, Sharifa is the word for the “Annona squamosa,” a small tree cultivated for its edible fruits, known as sugar-apples or sweet-sops in English.
Shirin
Shirin is an Arabic and Persian name meaning “sweet.”
Pronounced as shee-REEN, Sherin is prevalent in countries with large Persian-speaking populations, including Iran, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan. In the States, Shirin could be an exotic alternative for the old-fashioned name Sharon. Lengthier spelling options are Shereen or Shireen.
Tahira
Tahira is an Arabic and Urdu name for females meaning “pure” or “chaste.”
A perfect choice for your innocent little flower, Tahira is the feminine version of Tahir. This wholesome name is also spelled Tahire in Turkish and Tahirə in Azerbaijani.
The older version, Tahirih, belonged to influential 1800s Iranian poet and women’s rights activist Tahirih Qurrat al-Ayn. A modern namesake that followed in her footsteps is Pakistani advocate for gender equality, Tahira Abdullah.
Taj
Taj is an Arabic, Sanskrit, and Persian name meaning “crown.”
Taj is a stylish name with a modern feel despite being around for decades. It’s slightly more popular for males, making the U.S. top 1,000 boy names in 1976 and 1998.
It has also belonged to many famous females, including 1600s Queen of Aceh, Taj ul-Alam, and WNBA champion Taj McWilliams-Franklin.
In India, the Taj Mahal is a monument dedicated to love.
Tala
Tala is a name of many origins.
In Arabic, Tala means “palm tree,” making it an apt choice for a little girl growing up near the beach (or the desert). The Persian Tala means “gold” and is commonly used in Iran.
Tala is a Swedish, Norwegian, and Danish variation of the old High Germanic Adalheidis, meaning “noble natured.” It is also a Tagalog name meaning “bright star,” after the goddess of the morning star, and a Samoan name meaning “story” or “tale.”
This worldly name has never made the U.S. top 1,000. However, we are confident that this undiscovered gem could be a front-runner soon!
Tamar
Tamar is an Arabic and Hebrew name meaning “date palm.”
It’s derived from the Arabic “tamr,” the generic name for date fruit in Hebrew and Arabic.
In the Old Testament, Tamar was the daughter-in-law of Judah. Another biblical Tamar was the daughter of King David.
The Russian form is Tamara, a prevalent name in many Eastern European countries, including Russia, Armenia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, and Serbia.
Tamara was trendy in the U.S. during the 70s but is now outdated. Tamar could be just different enough to be the perfect replacement.
Tasnim
Tasnim is an Arabic name meaning “a spring in paradise.”
Pronounced as tas-NEEM, Tasnim is one of several sacred rivers mentioned in the Quran.
Tasnim and its alternative, Tasneem, have received sporadic usage in England, France, Spain, and the Netherlands but never stick for long. Despite this, Tasnim is a pretty name, especially for those of the Muslim faith.
Fans of the devious Tasmanian Devil from Looney Tunes will appreciate the nickname Taz.
Yara
Yara is an Arabic feminine name meaning “friend.”
It is derived from the Persian “yar,” meaning “helper.” Yara is also a variation of the Brazilian-Portuguese Lara, a river spirit in Tupi mythology.
Yara first hit the U.S. scene in 2017, making its way to #651 in 2020. In Switzerland, Portugal, and the Netherlands, Yara has been a front runner for several years, ranked in each country’s top 50 names in 2020.
Yasmin
Yasmin is an Arabic and Hebrew name meaning “jasmine.”
Yasmin, pronounced as yas-MEEN or YAZ-min, is the Arabic version of the English name Jasmine, a beautiful flower that symbolizes love, purity, and femininity. Other popular spellings are Yasemin, Yasmine, or Yasmeen. In the U.S., Yasmin ranked #975 compared to Jasmine’s #141, making it a unique option.
Yusra
Yusra is an unusual option among Arabic names for girls, meaning “wealth.”
Pronounced as YOOS-ra, Yusra is the feminine equivalent of Yousri or Yousry. Other forms are Yosra, Youssra, and Yousra, the latter being most common in Algeria, Morocco, and Egypt.
A modern namesake is Moroccan singer/Arab idol contestant Yousra Saouf. An old one is Yusra, a Palestinian woman who assisted British archaeologist Dorothy Garrod with her excavations of Mount Carmel between 1929 and 1935.
Zahra
Zahra is an Arabic, Persian, and Egyptian name.
This gorgeous name has three different yet related meanings. In Arabic, Zahra means “shining, bright, or beautiful.” It was likely popularized through Fatimah-Zahra, the daughter of Prophet Muhammad. In Persian, the name has the same meaning. In Egyptian, Zahrah means “flower” or “beauty.” It’s also considered an offshoot of Sarah, a biblical matriarch and wife of Abraham.
Zain
Zain is an Arabic name meaning “beauty” or “grace.”
Despite its elegant meaning, Zain is often given to males, ranked #573 in the U.S. in 2020. Alternative spellings Zane and Zayn are even trendier for boys, placed #259 and #310, respectively.
The most famous female bearer is CNN anchorwoman Zain Asher. Hopefully, she’ll inspire more parents to choose this super cool name for their daughters in years to come.
Zaynab
Zaynab is an Arabian female name with an unknown meaning.
Pronounced ZIE-nab, Zaynab may be derived from the Arabic “zayn,” meaning “beautiful.” It could have belonged to an ancient flower, or tree lost over time, or an Arabic form of Zenobia, the name of a pre-Islamic queen. Bosnian name versions include Zeineb, Zejneb, or Zejneba, while the Turkish form is Zeynep.
Zuleika
Zuleika is an Arabic girl’s name with an unknown meaning.
In the Hebrew Bible and Quran, Zuleika was the wife of Potiphar. Potiphar was the captain of the Pharaoh’s guard who purchased Joseph as a slave but, impressed by his intelligence, put him in charge of his household. However, Zuleika becomes infatuated with Joseph, resulting in Potiphar becoming jealous and sending Joseph to prison.
While Zuleika is viewed as a sinner in most biblical texts, her obsession with Joseph manifests the soul’s longing for God, as seen by Sufi Persian mystic poets, Rumi and Hafez.
