111 Popular Middle Eastern Baby Names With Meanings
Unveil the riches from the cradle of civilization.
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.
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Name | Gender | Meaning | |
---|---|---|---|
| Boy | The chosen one | |
| Boy | Strong and powerful | |
| Boy | An Egyptian ruler | |
| Boy | Increasing; Growing | |
| Girl | One who is right-handed | |
| Girl | One who is beautiful | |
| Boy | Hard sore | |
| Boy | Name of a historian | |
| Girl | Light | |
| Girl | Singer | |
| Girl | Pure | |
| Girl | Plain | |
| Girl | Form of Yolanda; Violet flower | |
| Girl | The heavenly body Venus | |
| Boy | God's graceful gift | |
| Boy | Servant of all-knowing | |
| Boy | Servant of Allah | |
| Boy | Servant of the wise | |
| Boy | Servant of mighty | |
| Boy | Servant of strong | |
| Boy | Servant of capable | |
| Boy | Servant of the guided | |
| Boy | Servant of all hearing | |
| Boy | Servant of the merciful one | |
| Boy | One having refined tastes | |
| Boy | Wanderer | |
| Girl | Moon angel | |
| Boy | Middle Eastern form of Emil; Excellent | |
| Girl | Moon fairy | |
| Boy | Blessings or abundance | |
| Boy | The smiling one | |
| Boy | A smile | |
| Boy | The one who carries a lance. | |
| Boy | The chosen one | |
| Boy | Dream | |
| Boy | The King's favor | |
| Boy | Pigeon | |
| Girl | Polite obedience | |
| Boy | Might of the faith | |
| Girl | Beautiful | |
| Boy | Mythical god of the dead's destiny | |
| Boy | Mythical reborn sun | |
| Girl | Harp | |
| Girl | The cities; The callings | |
| Boy | City vocation meeting | |
| Boy | Voice of the lord | |
| Boy | From Kolb | |
| Boy | Ruler | |
| Girl | Proud | |
| Boy | Gift | |
| Boy | Useful | |
| Boy | One who is rightly guided | |
| Boy | One who shines | |
| Boy | Tenacious, persisting | |
| Boy | One who is satisfied, content | |
| Boy | One who confers favors; A variant of Mohsin | |
| Boy | One who is successful | |
| Boy | One who can be trusted | |
| Boy | God is gracious | |
| Girl | Earth; Moon; Spring which flows constantly | |
| Girl | Lady whose charming manner brings joy | |
| Boy | The elevated one | |
| Girl | Treasure | |
| Girl | Darling | |
| Girl | Joy; Delight | |
| Girl | Traveler | |
| Boy | Mister; Sir | |
| Girl | Belonging to night | |
| Boy | A royal white falcon | |
| Girl | Falcon | |
| Girl | The opening bud | |
| Girl | Fragrance; Scent; Perfume | |
| Girl | She who is noble and gentle | |
| Boy | One who is noble and honorable | |
| Boy | Comet | |
| Boy | A gypsy boy of marriageable age | |
| Girl | My song | |
| Girl | Violet | |
| Girl | The last rose | |
| Girl | Small arrow | |
| Boy | Grateful | |
| Boy | A form of Simon; Listen | |
| Girl | Dew of the morning | |
| Girl | Salutation; Peace | |
| Boy | Nature lover | |
| Girl | Morning breeze | |
| Boy | Servant of God | |
| Boy | A non-mandatory pilgrimage made by Muslims to Mecca | |
| Boy | Rose giver | |
| Girl | Giver; Donor | |
| Boy | Passion and love | |
| Girl | Newborn | |
| Boy | Supporter of God | |
| Girl | Rose | |
| Boy | One who is golden-haired | |
| Boy | He will increase | |
| Girl | A woman of incomparable beauty | |
| Girl | Little dove | |
| Girl | God will increase; Feminine form of Joseph | |
| Boy | Protected | |
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.
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.
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