Congratulations on your brand new baby girl, Mom and Dad! To help prepare you for the arrival of your most beloved, we’ve curated this list of beautiful Muslim girl names perfectly suited for you.
There are so many Muslim female names, and choosing one can get pretty overwhelming. Go modern or keep it traditional? Because we know that names reflect a person, we’ve taken special care to gather a variety of lovely Islamic girl names.
Your daughter is a blessing, so why not give her an honorable epithet? Read ahead to find your one-in-a-million.
103 Beautiful Muslim Names for Girls
Meditate on these wholesome Muslim girl names sent from above.
Aaliyah
Aaliyah is an up-to-date name with unexpected religious undertones. It’s mentioned twice in the Quran in its variant form, Alia. After the tragic passing of celebrity namesake, Aaliyah, this name shot to stardom in North America. Despite Aliyah being the more widely accepted variant, we think Aaliyah is still a reliable pick. Take your baby to new heights with this elevated epithet.
- Origin: Arabic, Hebrew
- Meaning: Noble, elevated, exalted
- Pronunciation: AH-lee-ah, UH-lee-uh
- Variations: Aliyah, Alia
- Namesakes: Aaliyah Dana Haughton, an American singer nicknamed the “Princess of R&B.”
- Popularity: Aaliyah skyrocketed on U.S. charts in 2001 and ranked high at 61 in 2021.
Amani
Amani sounds like Armani, which, like your baby, is luxury couture. No, we don’t mean your baby is an originally designed outfit. But she is of the highest quality, born just for you. Amani is directly mentioned in the Quran from the root “M-N-Y.” Have you always hoped and wished for a bundle of joy? Amani could be your wish come true.
- Origin: Arabic, Swahili
- Meaning: Wishes, aspirations, peace
- Pronunciation: uh-MAH-nee, a-MAH-nee
- Variations: Amaani
- Namesakes: Amani Al-Khatahtbeh, an American author, activist, and entrepreneur. Amani, real name Cecilia Wairimu, a Kenyan songstress.
- Popularity: Amani’s best year in the U.S. was in 2010, later ranking 553rd and 685th in 2021.
Amina
Amina is often confused with Ameena, but they don’t mean the same thing and are pronounced differently. Amina comes from the root “A-M-N” in the Quran. Amina is used by persons of all backgrounds from all over the world. And why not? It’s simply gorgeous.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Safe one, honest, faithful
- Pronunciation: UH-min-uh, AH-min-uh
- Variations: Aminah, Aaminah, Amna
- Namesakes: Amina bint Wahb, the Islamic prophet Muhammad’s mother. Amina Wadud, an American Muslim theologian who has written on women’s role in Islam.
- Popularity: Amina entered the top 1,000 in the U.S. in 2000 and reached 345th place in 2021.
Anousheh
Anousheh may be a strange one, but it carries a powerful meaning. Every parent wishes for everlasting happiness for their child, and your daughter is no exception. If you balk at having to say Anousheh every time you call your baby, try shortening it to the sweet-sounding “Anu.” Or you can try out this unconventional moniker as a middle name.
- Origin: Persian, Arabic
- Meaning: Immortal, Everlasting, Strong, Happiness
- Pronunciation: ANOO-sheh
- Variations: Anousha, Anushae, Anusheh
- Namesakes: Anousheh Ansari, an Iranian American engineer and the first Iranian to go to space. Anousheh Khalili, an Iranian-American singer, and songwriter.
- Popularity: Anousheh is uncommon in the west as it doesn’t appear in the top 1,000 on U.S. charts.
Ayesha
Ayesha is a lovely Islamic girl’s name with many famous namesakes. The religious figure Ayesha bint Abu Bakr comes to mind. She was the second favorite wife of the prophet Muhammad. Despite its vibrant meaning and celebrity status, love for Ayesha has waned in the U.S. But old trends come back, and we’re sure Ayesha will too.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Alive
- Pronunciation: eye-EE-shuh
- Variations: Aisha
- Namesakes: Ayesha Jalal, a Pakistani-American historian who received the MacArthur Foundation Fellowship in 1998. Ayesha Disa Curry, a Canadian-American actress, author, and the wife of Stephen Curry.
- Popularity: In the U.S., Ayesha came in at 975th in 1979 and fell to 997th in 1982.
Azadeh
Azadeh is commonly mispronounced in the west, but that’s understandable since it’s not typically used there. If your baby is born free and is as lively as they come, give Azadeh a chance. It’s not a Quranic name, but it has a good meaning and is used in many Islamic communities. As of 2022, Azadeh ranks at a whopping 118 in Iran.
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Free, free-born, aristocratic
- Pronunciation: ah-zah-DAY
- Namesakes: Azadeh Shahshahani, an Iranian-American human rights attorney.
- Popularity: Azadeh doesn’t crack the top 1,000 in the U.S.
Azizah
Azizah is simply charming with all those playful “z” sounds. Although it’s beloved as a girl’s name on the Arabian Peninsula and in Malaysia, it’s more regularly seen as a last name in Indonesia. Azizah means “extraordinary” or “noble,” and in the Quran is derived from the “AIN-Z-Z” root. For an extraordinary baby, Azizah is the perfect fit.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Esteemed, noble, exalted
- Pronunciation: A-zeez-ah
- Variations: Aziza
- Namesakes: Azizah Y. al-Hibri, an American scholar and Professor Emerita at the University of Richmond School of Law.
- Popularity: Azizah is most popular in Malaysia and ranked 46th in 2022, but it doesn’t make the top 1,000 in the U.S.
Badia
Every baby is unique, and Badia is a name that says so. If you’re interested in naming your little girl after a real-life princess and can’t stand the usual Disney fare, Badia could be that exotic newcomer you never knew you needed. Just think, your Princess Badia could be the first western princess from the Middle East.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Unprecedented, unique, admirable
- Pronunciation: ba-DEE-ah
- Variations: Badeea
- Namesakes: Badia bint Ali bin Hussein, the last Iraqi princess.
- Popularity: Badia took the 219th spot in Morocco in 2022 but didn’t make the American charts.
Balqis
Is your daughter a queen in the making? Balqis was another name for the Queen of Sheba, although its original form was “Bilqees.” If you’re looking for a truly stand-out name, Balqis is one of the more unique options on our list.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Name of the Queen of Sheba
- Pronunciation: behl-KEE-ss
- Variations: Balqees, Bilqees
- Namesakes: Balqis Sidawi, a Lebanese writer and poet.
- Popularity: In 2022, Balqis made the top 100 names in Yemen and remains popular in surrounding nations and Malaysia.
Bano
Bano appears unassuming but comes with a haughty definition. For parents looking for a more humble pick, Bano may be a hard pass. But Bano is ideal for those parents who like calling their daughter “little princess.” It’s only four letters, too, making it easy for tiny hands to read and write.
- Origin: Persian, Kurdish
- Meaning: Miss, grand lady, princess
- Pronunciation: BA-noo
- Variations: Banu
- Namesakes: Bano Qudsia, a Pakistani playwright and novelist.
- Popularity: In Pakistan in 2022, Bano came in at 459 on the charts.
Basma
Basma gives off a soft sound that suits its lovely meaning. It’s an Islamic name for girls that seems all the rage in the East but hasn’t yet found its footing in the U.S. We hope your special girl will be all smiles with this name.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: One who smiles
- Pronunciation: BUUS-muh, BSS-muh
- Variations: Baasma, Basmaa
- Namesakes: Basma, an Egyptian actress born in Cairo, known for Messages from the Sea.
- Popularity: As of 2022, Basma is most popular in Jordan, Palestine, and Egypt, ranking 34th, 63rd, and 75th, respectively.
Calah
Parents considering Calah probably wonder why they don’t just go with the more standard “Kayla.” But Kayla has been done to death. If you’re looking through a list of Muslim names for girls, you probably don’t want something conventional. Seize the opportunity to give your baby girl this rare name before someone else does.
- Origin: Hebrew, Arabic
- Meaning: Favorable, opportunity
- Pronunciation: KAY-luh, KA-luh
- Namesakes: Calah Jackson, a contestant on season one of Fox’s Joe Millionaire.
- Popularity: Calah seems relatively uncommon as it doesn’t appear in the top 1,000 in the U.S. or the Middle East.
Caylie
Caylie is a more conventional pick in the west due to its Irish roots, but in America, it still doesn’t crack the top 1,000. In Arabic, Caylie stems from the name Kalila which means “beloved” or “darling.” In Gaelic, Caylie is a variation of Cayla, which comes from Caoilainn. Quite the background for your cherished one.
- Origin: Arabic, Gaelic
- Meaning: Beloved, slim and fair
- Pronunciation: KAY-lee
- Variations: Cayley, Caylee, Kaylie, Kayley, Cayleigh
- Namesakes: Caylie A. Jeffery, an Australian author.
- Popularity: In 2009, 106 girls were named Caylie in the U.S.
Chalipa
Chalipa is a musical moniker. The Chalipa is a poetic panel with ethical and moral themes in the Nastaliq calligraphy script. If you like a literary vibe and are craving novelty, sign your baby’s birth certificate with Chalipa — and make it fancy!
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Cross
- Pronunciation: cha-LEE-pa
- Popularity: Chalipa doesn’t appear on popularity charts inside or outside of the U.S.
Chanda
The Hindi name Chanda came onto the scene in the U.S. in 1969. It peaked at 459 in 1976 and fell off the charts after 1981. For such a lovely name to fade with the moon’s phases would be a tragedy. Let your daughter’s light illuminate your world with Chanda.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Moon-like, bright
- Namesakes: Chanda Rubin, a former American professional tennis player. Chanda Sharma, an Indian actress known for her role in Salaam Bombay.
- Popularity: In 2022, Chanda ranked 269th in India and 614th in Cambodia.
Daanya
For parents who feel grateful to God for their blessed bundle, Daanya is the right choice. Daanya’s variant, Dania, is more popular and is mentioned in the Quran, referring to the fruits of Paradise being within reach. Daanya may not be widely used, but it’s still a good option, especially considering Danny or Anya make pretty pet names.
- Origin: Arabic, Indian
- Meaning: Gift of God, beautiful, near
- Pronunciation: DAN-yuh
- Variations: Dania
- Namesakes: Dania Ramirez, a Dominican actress known for her role as Callisto in X-Men: The Last Stand.
- Popularity: Daanya doesn’t make the top 1,000 on U.S. charts.
Dameetha
Dameetha does not seem to be from the Quran, but people with this name tend to come from the Islamic community. It isn’t recorded on any popularity charts and doesn’t appear to be in mainstream use. Still, it’s so wholesome, we couldn’t leave it out! Dameetha is the ideal option for parents hoping their baby grows up with impeccable etiquette.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: One having good manners, simple
- Pronunciation: duh-MEETH-uh
Daneen
Names that mean princess will never go out of style. Daneen is a rare pick that most people don’t consider. It’s been around the block in the U.S. before, but it hasn’t made a long-lasting impact. Why not dust off that tiara and put Daneen back on the throne?
- Origin: Hebrew
- Meaning: Princess
- Pronunciation: duh-NEEN, deh-NEEN
- Popularity: In 1964, Daneen came in at 908 in the U.S. but hasn’t appeared in the top 1,000 since.
Dimah
Although Dimah’s variation, Dima, is more popular, you can still have fun with that extra “h.” Dima is popular in Eastern European countries as a unisex name, while throughout the Middle East, it’s used as a girl’s name. Associated with rain unaccompanied by strong winds or thunder, Dimah is one of the more refreshing Muslim girl names.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Gentle rain, rain cloud
- Pronunciation: DEE-ma
- Variations: Dima, Deemah, Deema
- Namesakes: Dima Kandalaft, a Syrian actress and singer. Dima Tahboub, a Jordanian writer, political analyst, and member of Jordan’s Muslim Brotherhood.
- Popularity: Dimah hasn’t shown up in the top 1,000 in the U.S. within the last century.
Effat
Effat is a textbook example of moral uprightness. It’s a derivative of Efah, from the root “AIN-F-F” in the Quran. Even those who don’t particularly want a strong religious name can turn to Effat as a break from all the pick-me names. But don’t worry, Effat is still rather unique in the west.
- Origin: Pakistani, Arabic
- Meaning: Chastity, modesty, virtue
- Pronunciation: EH-fuht, EH-fat
- Variations: Efah
- Namesakes: Effat Shariati, a former member of the Parliament of Iran and the head of the Iran Women Faction.
- Popularity: As of 2022, Effat takes the 447th spot in Lebanon but falls shy of the top 1,000 in Jordan.
Eira
We’re not looking to start a firefight, but Eira is one hot and cold name. In Welsh, it means “snow.” On the other hand, Eira in Arabic comes from the Quranic root “W-R-Y” which means “kindling.” Either way, Eira is a wonderful pick. But maybe do your daughter a favor and choose just one definition.
- Origin: Arabic, Welsh
- Meaning: Kindling, to start a fire, snow
- Pronunciation: EE-ra, EYE-ra
- Variations: Eiraa
- Namesakes: Eira Margot Helene Stenberg, a Finnish author and playwright who received the 1966 J. H. Erkko Award.
- Popularity: In 2020, Eira placed 406th in England, and in 2021 ranked 59th in Norway.
Eman
Eman is a powerful Islamic girl’s name that comes in many forms. Its variant, Iman, is mentioned in the Quran, and both have found major success on the world stage. Consider Eman Elassi, an Egyptian actress, or Eman Lam Yee-man, a singer-songwriter from Hong Kong. As for the trendier “Iman,” celebrity namesakes include Princess Iman bint Abdullah of Jordan and the Somali supermodel Iman Abdulmajid.
- Origin: Arabic, Egyptian
- Meaning: Faith (in Allah)
- Pronunciation: ee-MAN
- Variations: Iman, Imaan, Emaan, Eimaan, Eiman
- Namesakes: Eman Ghoneim, an Egyptian American geomorphologist. Iman Vellani, a Pakistani-Canadian actress, known for the main role in Ms. Marvel.
Erina
Erina is a simple but pretty moniker. Its reach stretches from Zimbabwe and Uganda to Ireland and Italy. In Japan, Erina means “blessed.” Perfect for parents blessed with a beautiful girl.
- Origin: Arabic, Japanese
- Meaning: Beautiful lady, blessed
- Pronunciation: EH-rih-na, air-EE-na
- Namesakes: Erina Takahashi, a Japanese lead principal ballerina for the English National Ballet.
- Popularity: Erina is most popular in Japan but was 92nd in Switzerland in 2013.
Faraza
Hoping and praying for your baby’s success? Faraza is the ideal choice. Although it isn’t a Quranic name, it has found a home in Muslim communities. And don’t be shy about Faraza just because it doesn’t make the charts. Not everything is a popularity contest.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Success, great height
- Pronunciation: fah-RAZ-uh
- Popularity: Faraza does not place on any popularity charts, making it a very rare name.
Farha
Farha is an Indian name with Persian roots. It may sound strange to English-speakers, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a catch. Farha’s Muslim ties come from being indirectly mentioned in the Quran, where its root means “a joyous occasion.” Doesn’t that perfectly describe the birth of your baby girl?
- Origin: Arabic, Persian
- Meaning: Happiness, delight
- Pronunciation: FUHR-ha
- Variations: Farhah
- Namesakes: Farha Mather, an Indian women’s badminton player. Farha Manzoor, a Pakistani politician, formerly a member of the Provincial Assembly of the Punjab.
- Popularity: Farha is most popular in India and the Maldives, though it doesn’t rank in their top 1,000.
Fatima
Parents may want to stay in the loop with Fatima. It’s been in vogue in many parts of the globe for ages. The prophet Muhammad’s daughter was called Fatima, so it’s highly esteemed in the Muslim community. Fatima also has strong connections to the Catholic faith through Our Lady of Fatima.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Beautiful like the stars, shining one, abstain
- Pronunciation: FA-tih-muh
- Variations: Fatimah
- Namesakes: Princess Lalla Fatima Zohra, a Moroccan princess. Fatima Trotta, an Italian comedian, TV presenter, and actress.
- Popularity: Between 2000 and 2008, Fatima peaked in the U.S., ranking 377th in 2021.
Fizziyah
You can’t go wrong with a shiny epithet like Fizziyah. It’s referenced indirectly in the Quran as it stems from a Quranic root. You could experiment with playful nicknames like Fiz, Fizzi, or Fizzy, and Ziyah.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Silvery, made of silver
- Pronunciation: fih-ZEE-yuh
- Variations: Fizziya, Fizeeya, Fizeeyah, Fiziyah
- Popularity: Fizziyah may be quite rare as it doesn’t show up on popularity charts.
Gabina
Gabina is a name most people haven’t heard before, even though it sounds like the familiar “Gabby.” Actually, why not make “Gabi” your little Gabina’s nickname? Your baby girl is as sweet as honey, and we think she deserves a name to match.
- Origin: Eastern Iranian Pashto
- Meaning: Honey
- Pronunciation: ga-BEE-na, guh-BEE-nuh
- Namesakes: Gábina Osvaldová, or Gabriela Osvaldová, is a Czech actress and lyricist.
- Popularity: In 2022, Gabina ranked in the top 1,000 in Latin America but doesn’t appear on U.S. charts.
Gamila
Gamila may look like Camilla, but it’s a derivative of Jamila, the feminine form of Jamil. From the root “J-M-L,” the Quran uses this name to refer to beauty in one’s behavior. So does the shoe fit your adorable Gamila? We hope so!
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Beautiful
- Pronunciation: ja-MEE-la, juh-MEE-luh
- Variations: Jamila
- Namesakes: Gamila El Alaily, or Jamila al-’Alayili, an Egyptian novelist and poet who challenged views on women.
Ghizlan
Does your baby leap like a gazelle? The lively Ghizlan could be the right fit. It looks very similar to Ghislaine, although the latter means a “pledge” or “hostage.” Heavy stuff! If you fancy Ghislaine, you could give Ghizlan a try. It’s a lovely Islamic girl’s name mentioned indirectly in the Quran.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Gazelle
- Pronunciation: GIZ-lan
- Variations: Ghizlaan, Ghezlan
- Namesakes: Ghizlan Guenez, an Algerian entrepreneur and founder and CEO of The Modist.
Giti
Giti almost sounds like the strum of a sitar. Meaning “one who chants lyrically,” and with a singer for a celebrity namesake, Giti is fatefully connected to music. Although it’s already short, you could still work in a nickname like Gigi. Let this beautiful, melodic name enchant you.
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Universe, World, one who chants lyrically
- Pronunciation: GEE-tee
- Namesakes: Giti Pashaei Tehrani, one of the most popular Iranian singers of the late 1960s and ’70s.
- Popularity: Giti is popular in Iran, coming in at 514 on the charts in 2022.
Hadiya
Hadiya is a seriously righteous name. It’s the feminine variant of the Quranic, “Hadi,” which refers to a woman who guides people toward the “Straight Path.” Hadia Tajik, a Pakistani-Norwegian journalist, jurist, and Labour Party politician, is a bearer of one of Hadiya’s many variations. With strong women for namesakes, your daughter could become another good example to follow.
- Origin: Arabic, African
- Meaning: Guide to righteousness, gift
- Pronunciation: HA-dee-ya, huh-DEE-yuh
- Variations: Haadiya, Hadia, Hadeya
- Namesakes: Hadiya Davletshina, a Bashkir author and poet. Hadiya Khalaf Abbas, a Syrian politician and the only woman to hold the Speaker of the People’s Council position of Syria.
- Popularity: Hadiya found the most use in Spain and Afghanistan, falling short of the top 1,000.
Halima
Halima is a tender name for a tender baby girl. And who wouldn’t want to be named after a fresh-faced beauty like Halima Aden? With both modesty and mildness, your little Halima could slay one day too.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Gentle, mild-mannered
- Pronunciation: ha-LEE-muh
- Variations: Haleema
- Namesakes: Halima Aden, a Somali-American model who was one of BBC’s 100 Women. Halima Chehaima, a Belgian beauty queen of Moroccan descent.
- Popularity: Halima is widely used throughout Africa and the Middle East.
Hazeema
Hazeema could bestow the gift of wisdom on your baby. Although Hazeema is a non-Quranic girl’s name, it’s commonly used among those in the Islamic faith. It’s also a popular last name in Lebanon. Whether or not you prefer another spelling of Hazeema, we know you’ll make a wise choice.
- Origin: Arabic, Pakistani
- Meaning: Wise, judicious
- Pronunciation: HA-zee-muh, ha-ZEE-muh
- Variations: Hazeemah, Hazimah
Hind
Hind is a popular pick among Muslim female names as it belonged to one of the wives of the Islamic prophet. As an Arabic name, Hind is pronounced: “H-IH-ND.” In Old English, Hind means “female deer” and is articulated as “H-EYE-ND.” Hind covers both bases if you want a nature name or something prayerful. Just please, don’t go buying that many camels!
- Origin: Arabic, Indian, Old English
- Meaning: Supplication for over 100 camels, female deer
- Pronunciation: H-IH-ND, H-EYE-ND
- Variations: Hend
- Namesakes: Hind Makki, an American interfaith educator. Hind bint Abi Umayya, a wife of the Islamic prophet Muhammad.
- Popularity: In 2022, Hind ranked in the top 50 in Sudan and Morocco and 413 in France in 2020.
Huma
Huma is not pronounced like you would humus, so don’t even try. Even though it’s so short, there’s a strength behind the word. Searching for a Muslim name this cute has never been easier, as it’s popular in Nepal and Pakistan and even sees some use in Croatia. Why not make Huma popular in the west?
- Origin: Arabic, Persian
- Meaning: Lucky, bearded vulture
- Pronunciation: HOO-muh
- Namesakes: Huma Mahmood Abedin, an American political staffer. Huma Saleem Qureshi, an Indian model and actress for primarily Hindi films.
- Popularity: In 2021, Huma ranked 99th in Turkey.
Iliya
Iliya is one of the prettiest Muslim girl names! Although Iliya or Ilya is a male name in Russia and Bulgaria, the Quranic version is exclusively for girls. In the Quran, Iliya refers to “those who belong to Illiyyeen,” the highest place in Paradise. If you have a noble-minded child or just love how it sounds, Iliya makes a sublime choice.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: From nobility. high class
- Pronunciation: EE-LEE-ya
- Variations: Iliyah
- Popularity: In 2022, Iliya ranked 434th in Nigeria.
Ilma
Ilma sounds like she could be your grandmother. This name has fallen rather out of favor in the west, making it a somewhat vintage option. Old and wise do go together, but maybe your baby Ilma could be the one to subvert expectations.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Knowledge
- Pronunciation: ILL-muh
- Namesakes: Ilma Karahmet, a Bosnian singer. Ilma Grace Stone, née Balfe, an Australian botanist.
- Popularity: In 1885, Ilma ranked 921st in the U.S. but hasn’t crossed the top 1,000 since.
Inaya
Show your baby you care with Inaya. It’s a Quranic name that implies care and protection from Allah. Inaya is one of those Islamic names for girls that sounds lovely and means something just as beautiful. As a plus, it seems to be the latest European trend.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Care, concern, protection
- Pronunciation: een-EYE-uh, in-EYE-uh
- Variations: Inayah, Inaaya, Anaya
- Namesakes: Inaya Sultana, an Indian actress and model.
- Popularity: Inaya ranked 21st in France in 2021 and is also prevalent in Belgium, the Netherlands, and England.
Iqra
Iqra is a pretty name mentioned in the Quran and is a command to “read.” For a fictional namesake, look to Iqra Ahmed from the BBC’s EastEnders. She was a character described as serious-minded and intelligent – upstanding qualities for a young Muslim girl. We’re sure a venerated epithet like Iqra won’t go unnoticed.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: To recite, to read
- Pronunciation: IH-kruh
- Variations: Iqrah, Ikra, Iqraa
- Namesakes: Iqra Aziz Hussain, a Pakistani actress mainly for Urdu television.
- Popularity: Iqra ranked 426th in England in 2020 and 338th in Pakistan in 2022.
Jahida
Often mispronounced in English, Jahida is a name for the generous and kind-hearted. It doesn’t appear in the U.S. top 1,000, but that’s to be expected. Jahida is uncommon even in the countries where it’s found.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Helps the vulnerable, one who strives
- Pronunciation: ja-HEE-duh, juh-HEE-duh
- Variations: Jahidah, Jaahida
- Namesakes: Jahida Wehbe, a Lebanese singer and composer.
- Popularity: Jahida is most prevalent in India and Afghanistan but is still somewhat uncommon.
Jawaria
Babies bring joy to their households, and so does Jawaria. Can you picture a bright, smiling baby with a name that means “sharer of happiness?” So can we! The variation, Jawariah, also makes an appearance in Indonesia.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Sharer of happiness
- Pronunciation: juh-w-AR-ee-uh
- Variations: Jawariah
- Namesakes: Jawaria Khalid, a Canada-based Pakistani RBC Career Launch Associate.
- Popularity: Jawaria is very popular in Pakistan but hasn’t made a dent on U.S. charts.
Jinani
Jihani is sent from above. It’s a refreshing pick with lots of tinkling “i” sounds and is referenced indirectly in the Quran. Jinani is just one of the many names that stem from the Quranic root “J-N-N,” along with the related name, Jannah. Jannah is a term for a heavenly “paradise” or “garden.”
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Heavenly, from paradise
- Pronunciation: JIH-na-nee
- Variations: Jinaani
- Popularity: Jinani does not appear on U.S. charts and is rare worldwide.
Joya
Joya is simple and sweet. With the word “joy” squeezed in there, this name always looks happy. It might mean “searcher,” but you’ve just found what you’re looking for. Joya has a special place in the Caribbean, but it’s also made a splash in the Netherlands. Many cultures have their own histories and meanings for Joya.
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Seeker, Searcher
- Pronunciation: JOO-ya, JAW-ya
- Variations: Jooya, Joyaa, Juya, Juyaa
- Namesakes: Joya Sherrill, an American jazz vocalist and children’s television host.
- Popularity: In 2022, Joya placed 465th in St. Kitts and Nevis and 698th in Montserrat.
Kaia
Kaia is on an upward trend in many English-speaking countries. Not many Islamic girl names can claim to be so inconspicuous in the west. Parents who want to keep their baby up-to-date can catch this wave before it’s gone. And don’t worry that Kaia is concise. You can still rock the nickname “Kai” – even if just for the coolness factor.
- Origin: Arabic, Greek
- Meaning: Stability, Earth
- Pronunciation: KEYE-a
- Variations: Gaia
- Namesakes: Kaia Jordan Gerber, an American model, actress, and daughter of Cindy Crawford. Kaia Kanepi, an Estonian professional tennis player.
- Popularity: Kaia has risen on U.S. charts since 2000 and placed 231 in 2021.
Kameelah
Kameelah might seem a tad long, but it literally means “most perfect.” Which mom or dad doesn’t think their baby is the best of all? Kameelah could be the ideal length to sandwich between a short first and last name.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Most perfect
- Pronunciation: kuh-MEE-luh, ka-MEE-luh
- Variations: Kameela
- Namesakes: Kameelah Janan Rasheed, an American author, artist, and educator. Kameelah Williams, an American songstress.
Khalida
Apart from immortality, Khalida is for little girls who grow into strong women. For example, Khalida Brohi is a Pakistani women’s rights activist from the indigenous Brahui tribe. She has been featured on TED Talks and received several awards and honors. Another impressive namesake is the fictional High Queen Khalida Neferher, a Warrior-Queen of Lybaras from the Warhammer roleplaying game.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Eternal, immortal, deathless
- Pronunciation: KHAH-lee-duh, KHUH-lee-duh
- Variations: Khalidah
- Namesakes: Khalida Toumi, an Algerian politician. Khalida Jarrar, a Palistinian politician.
- Popularity: Khalida is very popular throughout north and east Asia, coming in at 93 in Pakistan as of 2022.
Khudrah
Khudra is a nature name that brings the freshness of grass and trees. It’s an uncommon name worldwide and doesn’t pop up on most people’s radars. We’re here to bring Khudra to your attention if you’re looking for a rare gem.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Greenery
- Pronunciation: KHUUD-ruh
- Popularity: Khudrah is a very rare name as it doesn’t appear on any popularity charts.
Lailah
Was your baby born at night? Then Lailah is the way to go. Even if you had a daytime darling, Lailah is too pretty to pass up. It achieved much recognition in the U.S. between 2008 and 2015 but has slowly faded into obscurity. Don’t let Lailah go the way of the dodo if you can help it.
- Origin: Hebrew, Arabic
- Meaning: Night, born at night
- Pronunciation: LEYE-luh
- Variations: Laila, Layla
- Namesakes: Lailah Gifty Akita, a Ghanaian author and founder of Smart Youth Volunteers Foundation.
- Popularity: In 2010, Lailah peaked at 650th but in 2019 ranked 959th before falling out of the top 1,000.
Lakhsha
Lakhsha looks intimidating, but it’s just right for a sparkly-eyed baby girl. If you love glitters and sparkles and wish for your daughter to have a girly Muslim name, try Lakhsha. Not to be confused with the Indian name Laksha, which means “white rose” or “aim.” The only similarity is the way they’re pronounced.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Glittering
- Pronunciation: LAH-kh-shah
Laleh
Lots of Laleh’s seem to be multi-talented. Perhaps your little flower will bloom just as brightly. Laleh is popular in Iran, and, though not often, it’s also used in Afghanistan.
- Origin: Persian, Arabic
- Meaning: Tulip, dusk
- Pronunciation: LA-luh, LAH-leh
- Variations: Leila, Lala, Lalah, Laaleh
- Namesakes: Laleh Mehree Bakhtiar, an Iranian-American author, translator, and scholar. Laleh Pourkarim, an Iranian-Swedish songstress, record producer, instrumentalist, and actress.
- Popularity: Laleh ranked 310th in Iran in 2022.
Lamia
In Greek mythology, a lamia is a half-woman, half-snake monster. Yikes! Thankfully, the Arabic Lamia is a lot chipper. It means “shining” or “radiant,” which is great for parents interested in Lamia but not so keen on bogeymen. With appeal extending beyond the Middle East, from Wales to Russia, your baby will be joined by a vast community of girls named Lamia.
- Origin: Arabic, Greek
- Meaning: Shining, radiant
- Pronunciation: LA-mee-uh, LAY-mee-uh
- Variations: Lamija, Lamyae, Lamiya
- Namesakes: Lamia Funti, a Spanish chef raised in Morocco and Lamia’s Fish Market owner. Lamia Bahnasawy, an Egyptian professional archer.
- Popularity: Lamia is most prevalent in Tunisia, which placed 73rd in 2022.
Maira
Maira has many possible meanings. In Irish, Maira means “sea dew” or “of the sea,” but in other etymology, it means “favorable,” “admirable,” and “moon.” Not including the countless namesakes, that’s still a lot to choose from! Maira may be a little dated, but with vintage names being so trendy, it could be a keeper!
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Swift, food bearer
- Pronunciation: MEYE-ruh
- Variations: Myra
- Namesakes: Maira Khan, a Pakistani model, and actress. Maira Vieira, a Brazilian model and reality show contestant. Maira Kalman, an American illustrator, and author.
- Popularity: Maira was most popular in the early ‘90s, and last appeared in 1995 at 924th on the U.S. charts.
Memona
Memona is among the more favorable Muslim names for girls on our list as it means “good fortune.” We know how happy you feel to have a girl, so why not endow her with Memona?
- Origin: Persian, Arabic
- Meaning: Blessings, good fortune
- Pronunciation: MEM-oo-na
- Namesakes: Memona Khurshid Ali, an Urdu novelist. Mémona Hintermann, a French journalist and news presenter.
- Popularity: In 2022 Memona appeared in the top 3,000 names in Cameroon.
Minha
You can’t have a list of Islamic names for girls without a “gift from Allah.” Minha is a highly religious name found in other parts of the east. In Korea, Minha or Min-ha is both a first and last name. It’s not common in the west, but it sounds so adorable we think it should be.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Gift from Allah
- Pronunciation: MIN-ha, MEEN-ha
- Popularity: Minha ranked 1,786 in Afghanistan in 2022.
Mona
Mona is a darling little epithet. This is one Muslim girl’s name that isn’t strapped for attention. Beloved around the world, Mona may call to mind the Mona Lisa or the neighborhood of Mona in Jamaica, which houses a campus of the University of the West Indies. If your baby girl is everything you ever wanted, there’s no other choice but Mona.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Desired, wished for, wanted
- Pronunciation: MOH-nuh, MOO-nuh
- Variations: Muna, Mauna
- Namesakes: Mona Haydar, an American rapper, poet, and activist known for her song, Hijabi (Wrap My Hijab). Mona Ghoneim, an Egyptian composer.
- Popularity: Mona’s best year was 1950, when it ranked 230th in the U.S., but since 1986 it has fallen from the top 1,000.
Nadia
Nadia has been around for centuries and might seem a little outdated to some, but it’s managed to stay modern. And not just in the U.S., Nadia is appreciated globally, finding a large fanbase in Morocco and Algeria in their top 20. Other possible meanings of Nadia are “delicate” and “tender.” We see why it’s so sought after.
- Origin: Slavic, Arabic
- Meaning: Hope, caller
- Pronunciation: NAH-dee-uh
- Variations: Nahdiah, Nadiya
- Namesakes: Nadia Farès, a French actress. Nadia Batson, a Trinidadian singer, songwriter, and producer.
- Popularity: Nadia came in at 460 on U.S. charts in 2021.
Nadira
Nadira is for parents with an outstanding child. A closely related name in the Quran is Nazira, which refers to the radiance in the faces of those in Jannah (Paradise). Although Nadira is non-Quranic, it’s widely employed in Arabic nations. Because of Islam’s prevalence in places like Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago, Nadira has also found a home in the west.
- Origin: Swahili, Arabic
- Meaning: Precious, rare, radiance of face
- Pronunciation: nuh-DEE-rah, NA-dee-rah
- Variations: Naadira, Nadira
- Namesakes: Lady Nadira Naipaul, a Pakistani journalist, and widow of Sir V. S. Naipaul. Nadira Ait Oumghar, an Algerian women’s volleyball player.
- Popularity: Nadira ranked 189th in Guyana in 2022.
Nafisa
So you’ve prayed your heart out for a baby and now she’s finally here. For a little one “extremely desired,” you could try Nafisa. Your baby is the most precious person in your life, after all. The Islamic prophet Muhammad’s great-great-granddaughter, Nafisa bint Al-Hassan, was so acclaimed for her devotion that she had a mosque in Cairo named after her.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Valuable, extremely desired
- Pronunciation: NA-fee-sah
- Variations: Nafesa, Nafisah, Nafeesa
- Namesakes: Nafisa Joseph, an Indian model who won the 1997 Femina Miss India Universe.
- Popularity: In 2022, Nafisa is most prevalent in India at 1,757.
Nureen
Nureen stems from the Arabic root “Noor” which means “light,” and the Persian suffix, “-een” which means “made of” or “like.” The Quran indirectly references Nureen through the root “N-W-R.” Give this moniker to your dazzling daughter and watch her shine.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Made of light, radiance
- Pronunciation: NOO-reen
- Variations: Nooreen, Noorin, Nureine
- Popularity: Nureen is most prevalent in Malaysia but is uncommon worldwide.
Oadira
Oadira could be a noblewoman’s name, in the vein of Ophelia from Shakespeare’s Hamlet, but less tragic. Your Lady Oadira might one day be as powerful as her name implies.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Powerful, potent
- Pronunciation: OH-DEE-ruh
- Popularity: Oadira is rare globally but is most prevalent in Botswana.
Ofra
Ofra is a name that’s hard to get wrong. It’s a short and sweet epithet for Muslim girls with a nature vibe. Meaning “fawn,” Ofra comes across just as soft and tender as your baby.
- Origin: Arabic, Hebrew
- Meaning: Fawn, deer
- Pronunciation: O-fruh
- Variations: Ofrah
- Namesakes: Bat-Sheva Ofra Haza, professionally called Ofra Haza, a Grammy-nominated Israeli singer, and actress.
- Popularity: Ofra is fairly popular in Israel, ranked 560th in 2022.
Omera
Omera isn’t any old Muslim girl’s name. It’s got spunk! Liven up the postpartum room with Omera. This indirect Quranic name is a popular surname in Papua New Guinea, but it hasn’t yet made a mark as a first.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: To enliven, having a positive attitude
- Pronunciation: OH-mih-ruh, oh-MEE-ruh, oo-MAY-ruh
- Variations: Umaira
- Popularity: Omera is most prevalent in the Philippines and Nigeria.
Panra
Panra is pronounced as it’s spelled, making it easy to say and write. It’s not very popular in the west, but we don’t see why it shouldn’t be with its casual vibe. Panra is probably the only name on this lavish list of Islamic girl names with such an uncomplicated meaning. So just take it or “leaf” it!
- Origin: Arabic, Eastern Iranian Pashto
- Meaning: Leaf
- Pronunciation: PAN-ra
- Popularity: Panra is most common in India but doesn’t appear on U.S. charts.
Pari
Pari comes from the Hindu word for “fairy” but may also have Persian and Arabic roots. Besides Azerbaijan, it’s popular in India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. It might not be a Quranic name, but many Muslims use Pari as it has a neutral meaning. Much like your own little fairy, Pari is a bundle of cuteness stuffed into a tiny package.
- Origin: Indian
- Meaning: Fairy, angel, fairy-like
- Pronunciation: PA-ree, puh-REE
- Variations: Paree
- Namesakes: Pari Saberi, an Iranian theater director, awarded the title of Knight of the French Ordre des Arts et des Lettres.
- Popularity: Pari is most prevalent in Azerbaijan, ranking 297th as of 2022.
Parvaneh
Parvaneh doesn’t have a wide field of use as it’s very rare worldwide. Despite Parvaneh’s unusual sound, its meaning makes it a preferred choice in both Muslim and Hindu communities. Perhaps a baby Parvaneh will flutter into your life.
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Butterfly
- Pronunciation: par-VA-neh, par-WHAH-nehn
- Variations: Parvana
- Namesakes: Parvaneh Vasli, an Iranian associate professor and researcher. Parvaneh Pourshariati, an Iranian-born American historian, educator, and scholar.
- Popularity: Parvaneh is popular in Iran, ranking 104th in 2022.
Poupak
Poupak offers loads of instant fun with the punchiness of popping bubble wrap. This interesting-sounding name is uncommon, even within its place of origin. Don’t let that deter you, though. If Poupak isn’t your cup of tea as a first name, it might still fly as a second.
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: A kind of bird
- Pronunciation: poo-PAKH
- Namesakes: Poupak Shakibai, daughter of the Iranian actor Khosrow Shakibai.
- Popularity: Poupak is borne by 544 people worldwide and is most prevalent in Iran.
Qanita
Qanita is one of the few Muslim names for girls that start with Q. It comes from the root “Q-N-T” in the Quran. Whether or not you are a devoted Muslim, Qanita makes a respectable choice.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Woman devoted to God, pious woman
- Pronunciation: KA-A-nee-tuh
- Variations: Qaanita, Qanitah
- Namesakes: Qanita Jalil, a former Pakistani cricketer.
- Popularity: Qanita is most prevalent in Qatar and Indonesia but doesn’t appear on U.S. charts.
Qudrah
Qudrah is extremely rare on the world stage. It’s indirectly mentioned in the Quran as one of the multiple names derived from the Quranic root “Q-D-R.” If you wish to grant your baby girl exceptional ability and power, Qudrah is one to keep an eye on.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Power, capacity
- Pronunciation: KUU-druh
- Variations: Qudra, Qodra
- Namesakes: Qudrah Nampewo, girlfriend of Ugandan billionaire Abdu Sekalala.
- Popularity: Qudrah is most popular in Nigeria, and about 180 people bear this name worldwide.
Rashida
America may have lost interest in Rashida, but it’s still going strong in the Caribbean and the Middle East. Rashida is sophisticated and, in the Americas, a touch vintage – the perfect blend for a mature little lady!
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Righteous, mature, wise
- Pronunciation: ruh-SHEE-duh, ruh-SHEE-daa
- Variations: Rashidah, Rasheeda, Rasheedah
- Namesakes: Rashida Harbi Tlaib, an American attorney and democratic party politician. Rashida Bee, an Indian activist, awarded the 2004 Goldman Environmental Prize.
- Popularity: Rashida peaked at 536 in 1977 but fell out of the U.S. top 1,000 after 1980.
Rihana
It’s common knowledge that babies smell good and Rihana is all about that. This is a feminine derivative of Rayhan, which is mentioned in the Quran. Likely due to the renowned singer, the variant Rihanna is more popular in the U.S. and reached 310 in 2008. You could even copy Rihanna’s nickname, RiRi. Now that’s Fenty!
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Good scent, fragrance, sweet basil
- Pronunciation: REE-ah-nuh, RAY-ha-nuh
- Variations: Rihanna
- Namesakes: Robyn Rihanna Fenty, a Barbadian singer and actress.
- Popularity: Rihana is common in Oman, ranking 370th in 2022.
Rubiya
Rubiya has a refreshing meaning and sounds like Ruby. That’s two for the price of one in our book! Rubiya is an unusual name for Muslim girls that’s been ignored for too long. Sample Rubiya if you have a spring chicken on your hands.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Spring season
- Pronunciation: ROO-bee-yuh
- Variations: Rubiyah
- Popularity: Rubiya is rare worldwide, but its variant ranked 3,510 in Indonesia in 2022.
Rutaba
Let us guess; you saw Rutaba and thought of rutabaga. It’s not your fault, Mom and Dad. Rutaba isn’t your usual western fare and is pretty uncommon around the globe. Your baby will surely build a sturdy reputation with this earthy name for Muslim girls.
- Origin: Pakistani, Arabic
- Meaning: Reputation, fresh dates
- Pronunciation: roo-TAH-buh
- Namesakes: Rutaba Yaqub, a Saudi-born Pakistani singer.
- Popularity: Rutaba is mostly found in Pakistan, and in 2014, 183 babies were given this name worldwide.
Sabira
Sabira is a widely popular name for Muslim girls. It comes from the Quranic root “SAAD-B-R” and refers to one of the qualities esteemed in the Islamic faith. That explains why it has such a vast reach across the globe. Teach your child the virtue of patience with Sabira.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Patient, enduring
- Pronunciation: sah-BEE-ra, sah-BIHR-uh
- Variations: Sabirah, Saabira, Sabera, Saabera
- Namesakes: Sabira Merchant, an Indian actress and etiquette trainer for Miss India.
- Popularity: Sabira doesn’t make the U.S. top 1,000, but in 2022 it ranked 196 in Kyrgyzstan.
Sadaf
Sadaf is as delicate as a seashell and makes hushed tones like the swash of the waves. Despite being an Iranian name, it seems to have fallen out of favor in its homeland. You could bring the sights and sounds of the seaside home with your little baby Sadaf.
- Origin: Arabic, Iranian
- Meaning: Seashell, oyster
- Pronunciation: SA-duf, SOOA-duf
- Namesakes: Sadaf F. Jaffer, an American scholar, lecturer, and elected official. Sadaf Sabzwari, née Kanwal, a Pakistani actress and model.
- Popularity: In 2014, Sadaf ranked 249th in Pakistan and was in the top 500 in Afghanistan and Oman.
Shamila
We know how much moms need their rest after bringing a little one into the world, so we picked out Shamila in hopes your baby will be good-natured. If you’re unsure about Shamila’s authenticity on this list of Muslim female names, never fear. Shamila might not appear in the Quran, but more often than not, it crops up in Muslim and Arabic communities worldwide.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Complete, having an amiable nature
- Pronunciation: sha-MEE-luh, sha-MIH-luh
- Namesakes: Shamila N. Chaudhary, an American academic and foreign policy expert. Shamila Batohi, a South African prosecutor and director of the National Prosecuting Authority.
- Popularity: Shamila ranked 272 in Pakistan in 2022, also growing in popularity in Africa and the Caribbean.
Shirin
Shirin is actually a Hindu name, but is a big hit with those practicing Islam. It’s a moniker that says exactly what you already think of your baby. As far as namesakes go, another famous Shirin was the wife of the Sasanian King of Kings, Khosrow II. In Persian literature, she was propped up as an ideal for faithful wives to strive toward.
- Origin: Persian, Indian
- Meaning: Sweet, Charming
- Pronunciation: SHEE-rin, SHEE-reen
- Variations: Shireen
- Namesakes: Shirin Neshat, an Iranian artist known for her work in film and photography. Shirin Guild, an Iranian-born British fashion designer.
- Popularity: In 2022, Shirin landed the 80th spot in Afghanistan.
Shohreh
If you’ve seen the League of Legends TV show, Arcane, you may have heard the name Shohreh for the first time. Actress Shohreh Aghdashloo shone a spotlight on her name when she loaned her husky vocals to the enforcer, Sheriff Grayson. And what are the odds that Shohreh means “famous?” Looks like the Universe is giving you a not-so-subtle hint.
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Famous
- Pronunciation: shorr-AY
- Namesakes: Shohreh Aghdashloo, an Iranian-American actress.
- Popularity: Shohreh is most popular in Iran, ranked 339th in 2022.
Su’ad
Su’ad, or Suad, is primarily popular in Muslim circles. Its most notable bearer, Su’ad Abdul Khabeer, is a young American Muslim woman who tries to show another side of Islamic culture. Although it’s only four letters, Su’ad might make some take a step back. But don’t be afraid of a little apostrophe. If it’s making you hesitate, just try an alternative.
- Origin: Indian, Arabic
- Meaning: Good fortune
- Pronunciation: SOO-ud, SOO-ad
- Variations: Suad, Souad
- Namesakes: Su’ad Abdul Khabeer, an American scholar and activist.
- Popularity: In 2022, Su’ad ranked 113 in Bosnia but is also prevalent in Somaliland and Sudan.
Taaliah
Taaliah is a studious option that fits right into the mold of an obedient child. Around the world, Talia is the most popular version. Whichever you pick, similar nicknames are available, ranging from Tally to Tali or Tals.
- Origin: Arabic, Hebrew
- Meaning: One who recites the Quran, dew of God
- Pronunciation: TA-lee-uh
- Variations: Talia, Thalia, Taliah, Tahlia, Taaliyah
- Popularity: Taaliah is most prevalent in South Africa, but Talia ranked 303 on U.S. charts in 2021.
Tahira
Tahira is a weighty standard to live up to. Regardless of your denomination, if you value purity, Tahira is a perfect match. Tahira is indirectly cited in the Quran through a root that means “pure” or “cleansed,” making it clear why this moniker is highly prized among Islamic girl names.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Virginal, chaste, free from sin
- Pronunciation: tuh-HEE-rah
- Variations: Taahira, Tahirah, Tahera
- Namesakes: Tahira Kashyap, an Indian filmmaker. Tahira Syed, a Pakistani folk singer.
- Popularity: Tahira is most popular in Pakistan, ranking 42nd in 2022.
Tasnim
We think Tasnim sounds beautiful and hope you do too! Tasnim derives from Tasneem, which is mentioned in the Quran. Tasneem means “water that falls down from a high place” or, to put it more succinctly, “a waterfall.”
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Fountain of Paradise
- Pronunciation: tss-NEEM, tus-NEEM
- Variations: Tasneem
- Namesakes: Tasnim Shah, a Malaysian beauty influencer and model.
- Popularity: Tasnim reached 99th place in Belgium in 2021 and 77th in Spain in 2020.
Tia
Tia is one you didn’t expect to see on this list. It has a history of showing up in various languages and cultures and has become a mainstay of American naming conventions. We suspect that the ABC and Disney channel star, Tia Morwry, had something to do with it. Why not try a happy little name like Tia?
- Origin: Arabic, Greek
- Meaning: Happiness, goddess
- Namesakes: Tia Dashon Mowry-Hardrict, an American actress. Tia Bajpai, an Indian actress and singer.
- Popularity: In 1982, Tia skyrocketed to 221st on U.S. charts, and in 2012 ranked 963rd before dropping off.
Ulya
Ulya sounds like it could be Russian, but it’s actually Arabic. Some parents might worry about making their baby too haughty with this epithet. However, in the Quran, Ulya refers to Allah’s might and supreme power.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Highest, sublime, supreme
- Pronunciation: OOL-ya
- Variations: Ulyaa, Ulia
- Namesakes: Ulya Turgut, the mother of Turkish rapper and singer, Ezhel.
- Popularity: Ulya is popular in Belarus, ranking 463rd in 2022.
Umaiza
Bright, beautiful, and tender-hearted. Do those qualities describe your darling daughter? Umaiza would suit her perfectly.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Bright, beautiful, soft-hearted
- Pronunciation: OO-MEYE-zuh
- Popularity: Umaiza is most prevalent in Pakistan and Malaysia.
Umm
Umm is definitely an oddity in the west, but there’s no need for alarm. It’s not the same as the filler word “um.” Umm used to be a common Arabic feminine first name. Nowadays, Umm is more frequently used as an alias or honorific. If you’re really into Muslim or Arabic names, go all out with Umm.
- Origin: Egyptian
- Meaning: Mother
- Pronunciation: OOM
- Namesakes: Umm Kulthum, born Fatima Ibrahim es-Sayyid el-Belta, an Egyptian songstress and actress.
- Popularity: Umm ranked 63 in Egypt in 2022.
Vadha
Vadha is what you would name a porcelain doll or someone who looks like one. Of course, we mean without the uncanny valley stare. It’s a popular choice among Muslim names for girls despite having no ties to the Quran. In Nepal, Vadha is a surname, though it isn’t common.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Very white skin
- Pronunciation: VA-duh
- Popularity: Vadha is especially common in India and Turkey.
Varda
Varda could describe your daughter’s fat, rosy cheeks or cheerful personality. This version comes from the feminine Quranic name, “Wardah.” Not to be confused with the unisex name Wardaa. Take a break from floral names like Blossom or Rose and give this Islamic girl’s name its moment in the sun.
- Origin: Hebrew, Arabic
- Meaning: Rosey, flower
- Pronunciation: VAR-duh
- Variations: Wardah, Varda
- Popularity: Varda is most prevalent in Abkhazia and Bulgaria but doesn’t make the top 1,000.
Varisha
Varisha is not well-known in the U.S. Although it has a wide global distribution, most of its bearers come from India, and in 2014 about 5,685 persons were named Varisha. It’s quite stormy for a girl’s name, but that only makes it cooler.
- Origin: Arabic, Indian
- Meaning: Lightning, rainy season
- Pronunciation: var-IH-shuh, var-EESH-uh
- Popularity: Varisha is most popular in the Netherlands and India.
Vega
Vega sounds like a steampunk lover’s dream. It calls to mind someone from a distant future rather than someone living in a field. As the brightest star in the northern constellation of Lyra, Vega also has a celestial aura. If you’re quick, you could be the one to catch this shooting star.
- Origin: Arabic, Spanish
- Meaning: Falling star, dweller in the meadow
- Pronunciation: VAY-guh
- Namesakes: Vega Tamotia, an Indian actress and producer.
- Popularity: In 2021, Vega took 15th place in Spain, making it highly popular.
Wareesha
Simply put, Wareesha is your happiness. We realize it’s extremely rare in the west, but it’s the same story for pretty much everywhere except India. To a much lesser extent, Wareesha also shows up in Bangladesh, Malaysia, and Pakistan.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Happiness
- Pronunciation: WER-EE-sha, WER-EE-shuh
- Popularity: Wareesha is mostly used in India and American Samoa.
Wasifa
Wasifa is a unique Muslim girl’s name indirectly mentioned in the Quran. It comes from the root “W-SAAD-F” and is Arabic for “one who praises.” Wasifa is ideal if you hope to raise a devoted daughter. There are only 1,995 instances of Wasifa around the globe, and in the Maldives, Wasifa is used as a surname.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: One who praises
- Pronunciation: WAH-see-fuh
- Popularity: Wasifa is mainly found in Bangladesh.
Wida
Wida lets you use just four letters to call your baby “beloved.” Isn’t that delightful? Globally, Wida is typically a feminine given name beginning with W. In the Democratic Republic of Congo and Papua-new-Guinea, it’s more prevalent among boys. Still, we think this sugary Islamic epithet best suits a little girl.
- Origin: Persian, Arabic
- Meaning: Beloved, darling
- Pronunciation: WIH-duh
- Popularity: Wida is most popular in Indonesia but falls short of the top 1,000.
Wira
Meaning “melon vine,” Wira is pumpkin-patch adorable. Wira is somewhat popular in Indonesia, where it’s almost exclusively a boy’s name. As a girl’s name, it’s primarily found in India, the U.S., Taiwan, and Brazil but has relatively less usage. The numbers don’t lie. This is the season to cultivate a cutie called Wira.
- Origin: Arabic, Persian
- Meaning: Melon vine, righteous
- Pronunciation: WEE-ruh, WEE-ra
- Popularity: Wira is very popular in Thailand, ranking 52nd in 2022.
Xeres
Xeres takes the prize for one of the coolest Muslim girls’ names on our list. It must have something to do with the “x.” Xeres is a derivative of Xerxes which means “ruler over heroes.” That sounds like powerful stuff!
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Nice, caring, ruler over heros
- Pronunciation: ZEH-reez, khs-EH-rez
- Popularity: Xeres is most popular in the Philippines, and in 2014, about 105 people had this name worldwide.
Xyra
Craving super rare Islamic girl names? Only 11 people in the U.S. are called Xyra, as it’s been out of the mainstream for the last century or more. Xyra might sound a little harsh initially, but it has a soothing definition.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Moon
- Pronunciation: ZEYE-ruh
- Popularity: About 382 people worldwide were named Xyra, most prevalent in the Philippines.
Yahana
Despite the straightforward spelling, Yahana is often mispronounced by English-speakers. It’s a moniker with Arabic roots favored by the Islamic community for its pleasant qualities. Show the world the beauty of your blossoming young flower with Yahana.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Most beautiful flower
- Pronunciation: YAH-ha-na
- Popularity: About 1,478 people are called Yahana globally, and it’s most popular in Nigeria and Qatar.
Yalina
Yalina is an indirect Quranic name that stems from the root “L-Y-N.” It’s an unconventional derivative of Aleena from the same root. Ultimately, the two are essentially the same, so you can pick the one you prefer. If you’re planning a family trip to South America, your little Yalina will blend into the scores of others who share her name.
- Origin: Pakistani, Greek
- Meaning: Delicate, soft, shining one
- Pronunciation: yuu-LEE-nuh, yuu-LEE-na
- Variations: Yaleena, Yelina, Aleena
- Popularity: Yalina is mostly used in India and Indonesia.
Yasmin
Yasmin is an even more exotic version of Disney’s Princess Jasmine. With all its bells and whistles, it still means “Jasmine flower.” A name this fragrant is ideal for any baby girl, even the fictional ones! The Jewish Latina cartoon character and Bratz doll, Yasmin also carry this enchanting moniker.
- Origin: Persian
- Meaning: Jasmine flower
- Pronunciation: YAZ-min, yaass-MEEN
- Variations: Yasmeen, Yaasmin, Yaasmiin, Yasmine
- Namesakes: Yasmin Mogahed, an American motivational speaker and educator. Yasmin Alibhai-Brown, a British Muslim author and journalist.
- Popularity: Yasmin was most popular in the U.S. in 2006, when it peaked at 325, but in 2020 it fell to 980.
Yushfa
Yushfa is an enigma among Muslim names for girls. There isn’t much information on this exotic epithet beyond its propensity for keeping it “youthful.” With women everywhere chasing their girlish good looks, maybe that’s all you need.
- Origin: Pakistani, Arabic
- Meaning: Youthful
- Pronunciation: YUUSH-fah
- Popularity: Yushfa is a rare name worldwide as it doesn’t appear on popularity charts.
Zahra
The Islamic prophet Muhammad’s daughter, Faṭima bint Muḥammad, was also fondly called Fatima al-Zahra. This association has put Zahra on many Muslims’ high-priority names lists. This version is seeing rising popularity in the west, though it’s still outmatched by Zara, which ranked 213 in 2021.
- Origin: Arabic
- Meaning: Flower of the world, bounty, bright
- Pronunciation: ZA-hruh, ZA-hra, ZAH-ruh
- Variations: Zahrah, Zara
- Namesakes: Zahra Noorbakhsh, an Iranian-American comedian, writer, and actress. Zahra Abdulla, a Somali-born Finnish politician.
- Popularity: Zahra first hit the top 1,000 on U.S. charts in 2012 and 695 in 2021.
Zaira
Zaira definitely won’t just be a guest in your house if you choose it for your baby. And it most certainly isn’t only for daughters born at dawn. Zaira seems popular wherever it touches down in the world, and as your daughter explores new places, we hope she will be too.
- Origin: Hebrew, Arabic
- Meaning: Dawn, visitor, guest
- Pronunciation: ZEYE-ruh
- Variations: Zyra
- Namesakes: Zaira Wasim, a former Indian actress who received a Filmfare Award and a National Film Award.
- Popularity: In 2006, Zaira ranked 99th in Spain and isn’t listed on U.S. charts.
Zoya
Zoya sounds like Joya with a “Z.” It’s an uncomplicated girl’s name with a zippy feel. In the Quran, Zoya comes from Zoeya, meaning “made of light” or “radiant.” The Russian and Persian meanings will have your little girl shine brightly among her peers.
- Origin: Russian, Persian
- Meaning: Life, loving, caring
- Namesakes: Zoya, an Indian-born American singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur. Zoya Akhtar, an Indian director, and screenwriter for Hindi cinema.
- Popularity: In 2021, Zoya ranked 985th in the U.S. and 85th in Ukraine in 2022.
