106 Popular Middle Eastern Baby Names With Meanings

Unveil the riches from the cradle of civilization.

Written by Benidamika J Latam, MA, MSc Specialty: Psychology and RelationshipsExperience: 2 years

Benidamika holds a masters degree in Counseling Psychology from Assam Don Bosco University and another masters degree in English Literature from North Eastern Hill University. At MomJunction, Benidamika writes on human psychology and relationships.

Read full bio of Benidamika J Latam

Edited by Shikha Thakur, MBA Specialty: Relationships and Baby NamesExperience: 7 years

Shikha is a writer-turned-editor at MomJunction, with over seven years of experience in the field of content. Having done a certification in Relationship Coaching, her core interest lies in writing articles that guide couples through their courtship to marriage and parenthood.

Read full bio of Shikha Thakur

Fact-checked by Apoorva K, MSc (Counseling Psychology) Specialty: Child development and mental healthExperience: 2 years

Apoorva is a certified psychological counselor and NLP practitioner. The assistant professor-turned-writer believes that her experience as a teacher, psychologist, and researcher enables her to guide MomJunction readers on child development and mental health.

Read full bio of Apoorva K

Last Updated on Aug 2, 2024

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Middle Eastern baby names originate from the region located in western Asia. Fondly referred to as the ‘cradle of civilization,' the Middle East has been home to some of the earliest accomplishments of humanity. This region is the origin point of various belief systems and religions such as Judaism, Islam, and Christianity, defining modern civilization. With a wide variety of people, cultures, and religions, the Middle East boasts some of the most gorgeous and exotic baby names.

Since Arabic is the official language of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Yemen, Oman, and other Middle Eastern countries, the majority of the population bears Arabic names. Typically, Middle Eastern names carry linguistic roots and are handed down through generations. For instance, many Arabic names reflect one of the 99 attributes of Allah. Christian and Hebrew names are usually derived from the Bible or Old Testament.

Arabic names are often long, detailed, and have familial ties. Sample the name Saleh ibn Tariq ibn Khalid al-Fulan. Saleh is the given name, while ‘ibn’ means ‘son of.’ In this case, Saleh is the son of Tariq, who is the son of Khalid, making Khalid Saleh’s grandfather, and al-Fulan is the family name or surname. For daughters, instead of ‘ibn,’ ‘bint’ is used as it means ‘daughter of.’ Arabic names can either be single given names or compound names that may begin with Abd, Abd al, and Abdul, which means ‘servant’ or ‘servant of.’ These names are often combined with the different names of Allah. Arabic names may also end with al-din, ad-din, el-din, eddin, or uddin, translating to ‘of the religion.’

There are also Arabic Christians living in the Middle East, and their choice of names is different from the Muslim Arabs. They often choose Arabic versions of Christian names, names from Greek, Armenian, and Aramaic origins, and European names like Émile and George. They may also use names such as Abd al-Yasu for boys and Amat al-Yasu for girls, as a way of reverence to Jesus Christ. Our extensive list helps you discover a whole new world of Middle Eastern baby names for your boy and girl. Have a look.

Name	Gender	Meaning
Mustapha	Boy	The chosen one
Zubayr	Boy	Strong and powerful
Shabaka	Boy	An Egyptian ruler
Zayid	Boy	Increasing; Growing
Kishon	Boy	Hard sore
Korian	Boy	Name of a historian
Yeira	Girl	Light
Shadiyah	Girl	Singer
Zakiyyah	Girl	Pure
Sharonda	Girl	Plain

Yalanda	Girl	Form of Yolanda; Violet flower
Todros	Boy	God's graceful gift
Abd-al-Alim	Boy	Servant of all-knowing
Abd-al-Bari	Boy	Servant of Allah
Abd-al-Hakim	Boy	Servant of the wise
Abd-al-Jabbar	Boy	Servant of mighty
Abd-al-Matin	Boy	Servant of strong
Abd-al-Qadir	Boy	Servant of capable
Abd-al-Rashid	Boy	Servant of the guided
Abd-al-Sami	Boy	Servant of all hearing

Abd-er-Rahman	Boy	Servant of the merciful one
Arqa	Boy	One having refined tastes
Arvio	Boy	Wanderer
Aymelek	Girl	Moon angel
Aymil	Boy	Middle Eastern form of Emil; Excellent
Ayperi	Girl	Moon fairy
Barakaa	Boy	Blessings or abundance
Bassaym	Boy	The smiling one
Bassma	Boy	A smile
Casildo	Boy	The one who carries a lance.

Chakir	Boy	The chosen one
Chelem	Boy	Dream
Fadahunsi	Boy	The King's favor
Ikrimah	Boy	Pigeon
Imtithal	Girl	Polite obedience
Izz-al-Din	Boy	Might of the faith
Khazbiika	Girl	Beautiful
Khentimentiu	Boy	Mythical god of the dead's destiny
Khnurn	Boy	Mythical reborn sun
Kinnette	Girl	Harp

Kirioth	Girl	The cities; The callings
Kirjath	Boy	City vocation meeting
Kolariah	Boy	Voice of the lord
Kolb	Boy	From Kolb
Ksathra	Boy	Ruler
Kurbiika	Girl	Proud
Mufid	Boy	Useful
Muhtadi	Boy	One who is rightly guided
Muki	Boy	One who shines
Mulazim	Boy	Tenacious, persisting

Murtadi	Boy	One who is satisfied, content
Mushin	Boy	One who confers favors; A variant of Mohsin
Muwaffaq	Boy	One who is successful
Muwakkil	Boy	One who can be trusted
Ohannes	Boy	God is gracious
Saahirah	Girl	Earth; Moon; Spring which flows constantly
Saar-rah	Girl	Lady whose charming manner brings joy
Sarni	Boy	The elevated one
Segulah	Girl	Treasure
Sevgili	Girl	Darling

Sevinc	Girl	Joy; Delight
Seyyal	Girl	Traveler
Seyyid	Boy	Mister; Sir
Shabanna	Girl	Belonging to night
Shaeen	Boy	A royal white falcon
Shakufa	Girl	The opening bud
Shamaamah	Girl	Fragrance; Scent; Perfume
Shareefah	Girl	She who is noble and gentle
Sharifu	Boy	One who is noble and honorable
Shawar	Boy	Comet

Shebaro	Boy	A gypsy boy of marriageable age
Shirilee	Girl	My song
Sigliah	Girl	Violet
Songl	Girl	The last rose
Suhaymah	Girl	Small arrow
Sukru	Boy	Grateful
Syman	Boy	A form of Simon; Listen
Talora	Girl	Dew of the morning
Taslimah	Girl	Salutation; Peace
Tibon	Boy	Nature lover

Tzafrirah	Girl	Morning breeze
Ubaida	Boy	Servant of God
Umarah	Boy	A non-mandatory pilgrimage made by Muslims to Mecca
Varten	Boy	Rose giver
Wahibah	Girl	Giver; Donor
Wajdi	Boy	Passion and love
Walidah	Girl	Newborn
Walliyullah	Boy	Supporter of God
Wordah	Girl	Rose
Xantheus	Boy	One who is golden-haired

Yasuf	Boy	He will increase
Yegane	Girl	A woman of incomparable beauty
Yoninah	Girl	Little dove
Yosifa	Girl	God will increase; Feminine form of Joseph
Kibzaim	Boy	Protected
Zaleekhah	Girl	A variant of Zulaikha, meaning brilliant beauty
Zambak	Girl	Lily
Zarifah	Girl	A graceful woman
Zehab	Boy	Gold
Zihayr	Boy	Brilliant or shining

1 2 »

Although the majority of the names have roots in Arabic, there are also Arabic Christians who take inspiration from other sources such as Armenian, Greek, Aramaic, and European names. Arabic names are detailed and often reflect religious attributes and familial ties. While Muslim Arabs prefer choosing names inspired by the 99 attributes of Allah, Christian Arabs prefer Arabic versions of Christian names. Our list carries a mix of both, explore to find the perfect fit for your little one.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who are some famous historical figures with Middle Eastern baby names?

Yes, many famous historical figures have Middle Eastern names, reflecting the region's rich history and cultural significance. The Arabic name Harun refers to Harun al-Rashid, the fifth Abbasid Caliph, who ruled from 786 to 809. Similarly, the Arabic name Omar traces back to Omar Khayyam, a Persian mathematician, astronomer, philosopher, and poet.

2. How have Middle Eastern baby names evolved over time?

Middle Eastern baby names have evolved significantly and were influenced by cultural, religious, and social changes. For example, traditional names like Fatima (to abstain) and Hasan (handsome or good), often reflect virtues, spiritual significance, or familial heritage. In modern times, there is a trend towards names that blend traditional elements with contemporary sounds or meanings. Names like Layla, meaning ‘night,’ and Zayn, meaning ‘beauty’ or ‘grace,’ have gained popularity due to their simplicity and modern appeal. This evolution showcases Middle Eastern cultures' dynamic nature and ability to adapt to changing times while honoring their rich heritage.

Infographic: Exquisite Middle Eastern Baby Names With Meanings

Middle Eastern baby names are rich in variety and religious significance since the Middle East is the birthplace of important religions like Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. These names are not limited to only Arabic names but are a blend of Aramaic, Greek, and names from other languages, too. The following infographic lists a few enchanting Middle Eastern names.

distinctive middle eastern baby names with meanings (infographic)

Look Up For Many More Names

Do you have a name in mind and want to know more about it? Or want to find names belonging to a particular origin, religion, or having a specific meaning? Use our search tool below to explore more baby names with different combinations.