Arabic Boy Names

Arabic boy names carry a wealth of history and meaning.

Many parents from Arabic-speaking countries, as well as the global community of over 400 million Arabic speakers, look for names that are not just beautiful but also significant.

Muslim boy names, often of Arabic origin, are particularly popular.

This article explores a variety of these names.

By presenting their meanings and cultural backgrounds, parents can find the perfect name, whether they are looking for something traditional, strong, cute, or cool.

Popular Arabic Boy Names

Ali

Ali is a revered name in Islam, meaning “noble” or “exalted.”

It is associated with the Prophet Muhammad’s son-in-law, who was the fourth ruler of the Shia Muslims.

Amir

Amir means “prince” or “commander.”

This name has roots in both Arabic and Persian cultures, making it a popular choice for Muslim boys.

Hamza

This name means “strong” or “steadfast.”

Hamza is remembered as the brave uncle of the Prophet Muhammad in Islamic history.

Hassan

Hassan means “handsome” or “good.”

It is a beloved name in the Muslim world due to its association with Hassan ibn Thabit, who was a companion of Prophet Muhammad.

Idris

Idris means “interpreter.”

This name is linked to a prophet mentioned in Islamic tradition and is also borne by the English actor Idris Elba.

Kareem

Kareem means “generous” or “noble.”

It is a classic Arabic name and one of the 99 names of Allah in Islamic belief. American basketball player Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is a famous bearer of this name.

Malik

Malik means “king.”

It is another one of the 99 names of Allah in Islam and signifies royalty and strength.

Muhammad

Muhammad means “praised” or “commendable.”

This is the most common Muslim boys’ name worldwide due to its association with the founder of Islam. The famous boxer Muhammad Ali changed his name from Cassius Clay when he converted to Islam.

Nasir

Nasir means “helper” or “protector.”

This name is popular among Muslims for its positive connotations.

Omar

Omar signifies new life with its meaning of “life” and “flourishing.”

It is a popular name in many countries, including the United States, Kazakhstan, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Samir

Samir means “companion in evening talk.”

This name is perfect for a friendly boy who might become your favorite evening companion.

Zayn

Zayn means “beauty” or “grace.”

This name became popular in the United States thanks to Zayn Malik from the famous boy band One Direction.

Unique and Rare Arabic Boy Names

Akram

Akram means “most generous.”

This name is relatively rare but has been gaining popularity. It is a superlative form of Karim, making it a wonderful choice for those looking for a name with a strong, generous meaning.

Bilal

Bilal means “moistening.” While this name is uncommon in the United States, it holds popularity in places like Turkey and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

It’s a unique and refreshing choice for a baby boy.

Daniyal

Daniyal is the Arabic, Persian, and Urdu version of the name Daniel, meaning “God is my judge.”

If you’re searching for a distinctive alternative to the common name Daniel, Daniyal is an excellent option.

Farid

Farid means “unique” and “precious.”

This name is perfect for parents who want a rare and special name for their one-of-a-kind baby boy. It’s a simple and elegant name with a powerful meaning.

Marwan

Marwan is derived from the name of a fragrant plant in Arabic.

It also has associations with two sacred hills near Mecca, Al-Marwa. This beautiful name is a fitting choice for a baby boy who is sure to bloom and grow.

Nazih

Nazih means “honest” and “virtuous.”

This name carries a positive and appealing meaning, perfect for parents hoping to inspire these qualities in their child. It is both unique and meaningful.

Qasim

Qasim literally means “one who divides goods among his people.”

If you wish for your child to have a spirit of generosity and sharing, Qasim is an inspiring choice. It’s a name that is both strong and rare.

Suhail

Suhail is the Arabic name for Canopus, the second brightest star in the sky.

This celestial name is perfect for parents who want their child’s name to reflect brilliance and light. It’s a unique and stellar option.

Royal Arabic Boy Names

Ahmed

Ahmed is a name carrying a powerful legacy.

It has been used by three Ottoman sultans and is a form of Ahmad. The name means “most commendable,” making it a strong choice for any young boy.

Aziz

Aziz is a name of great significance, holding meanings like “powerful,” “respected,” and “beloved.”

It is also one of the 99 names of Allah and was used by a ruler in the tenth century.

Faruq

Faruq is a name that embodies wisdom, meaning “person who can tell right from wrong.”

The last king of Egypt bore this name, adding a touch of royalty.

Hisham

Hisham means “generous” and “to crush,” referring to the tradition of crushing bread to share it.

This name was carried by an eighth-century caliph of the Umayyad dynasty.

Makram

Makram stands for “noble traits” and “generous.”

These qualities are certainly virtues you’d want in a child, making the name a splendid choice.

Mahmud

Mahmud is a name borne by two Ottoman sultans and the first Muslim ruler of India.

It means “praised,” adding a royal touch to it.

Mehmed

Mehmed has royal connections, being the name of six sultans of the Ottoman Empire.

The name originates from Muhammad, which means “to praise.”

Nabil

Nabil means “noble” and would suit someone of high rank or someone with remarkable qualities and virtues, fitting for a young boy you hope will grow up to have these traits.

Rafi

Rafi means “noble,” “elevated,” and “sublime.”

It’s a fitting name for a little one you want to see rise to great heights.

Sultan

Sultan essentially means “ruler” and is often used as a gender-neutral name in Turkey.

This name is perfect if you want to give your baby boy a royal title from the start.

More Royal Arabic Boy Names:

• Salman: This name means “safe” and “sound.” It exudes a sense of protection.
• Tariq: Tariq means “he who knocks at the door” and has been used by historic figures.
• Zayd: Zayd means “growth” and “abundance,” reflecting prosperity and development.

Short and Cute Arabic Boy Names

Adil

The Arabic name Adil means “honest” or “fair.”

It’s a popular name in the Muslim world and is often given to boys as a symbol of righteousness and integrity.

Anas

With its meaning of “friendly and companionable,” Anas is simply irresistible.

This short and cute Arabic boys’ name belonged to a companion of the Prophet Muhammad.

Badr

If you like celestial names, you could go with Badr, which means “full moon” in Arabic.

Habib

Give your darling baby boy this endearing name that means “beloved” in Arabic.

Hadi

Meaning “guide,” this short Arabic boys’ name has an irresistibly cute spelling and sound for your little one.

Jibril

Looking for the perfect name for your little angel? Jibril is the Arabic form of Gabriel—the archangel and messenger of God in Hebrew tradition.

Naji

This cute Arabic boys’ name means “safe and secure” and “friend.”

It’s pronounced NA-jee and can also be spelled Naaji or Nagi.

Nizar

Pronounced nee-ZAR, this adorable boys’ name means “little” or “shine” in Arabic—both are cute and apt meanings for that bright new arrival in your life.

Tariq

If your little one is born just before sunrise, you might enjoy naming them Tariq, which is the name of the morning star in Arabic.

Your baby boy will certainly shine just as bright!

Zaki

With its cute and cool spelling and the meaning of “pure” in Arabic, Zaki is an adorable name choice for any newborn baby boy.

Powerful and Strong Arabic Boy Names

Abdullah

This name translates to “servant of Allah.”

It is an alternative spelling of Abd Allah and was also the name of the Prophet Muhammad’s father.

Ahmad

Meaning “most commendable” in Arabic, Ahmad is popular in the United States and Britain.

It’s a wonderful choice for a well-respected name.

Harun

The Arabic form of Aaron, Harun means “exalted” or “high mountain.”

This evokes images of strength and sturdiness, much like a mountain.

Jabari

Coming from the Arabic name Jabbar, Jabari means “almighty” and “powerful.”

Though it’s an African American boy’s name, it has roots in Arabic culture.

Jalal

In Arabic, Jalal means “greatness.”

It’s a grand name that promises a bright future for any boy.

Khalid

This name means “eternal” in Arabic.

It’s a strong and timeless choice for any baby boy.

Mustafa

With the meaning “chosen one” in Arabic, Mustafa is an epithet of Muhammad.

It was also borne by four Ottoman sultans.

Qadir

Pronounced KA-deer or ka-DEER, Qadir means “capable,” “powerful,” and “mighty.”

It is one of the 99 names of Allah.

Saif

This short yet compelling name means “sword.”

It symbolizes protection and power, making it a strong choice for any boy.

Usama

Pronounced oo-SA-mah, this name means “lion.”

It’s a powerful name evoking fierceness and bravery.

Beautiful Arabic Boy Names

Anwar

Your bright little star might suit this beautiful Arabic name meaning “brighter” and “more luminous.”

A famous bearer of this name was Egyptian president Anwar Sadat.

Ayman

Feeling lucky and blessed with your new baby boy? Ayman means just that in Arabic—lucky and blessed.

Ghassan

Celebrate the purity and beauty of childhood with Ghassan, an Arabic name for boys that means “youth.”

Hakeem

This name means “wise” and “intelligent.”

Hakeem is the name of Nigerian American basketball player Hakeem Olajuwon.

Hussein

Meaning “handsome,” Hussein is a perfect choice for a beautiful baby boy.

It’s also the middle name of former president Barack Obama.

Jamal

Jamal, meaning “beauty” in Arabic, is a lovely choice for your little guy who will bring beauty into your life.

Rayyan

Looking for a rare and beautiful name starting with R?

Rayyan means “watered” and “lush.” In Islamic tradition, this name represents one of the gates of paradise.

Sami

Meaning “sublime” and “elevated,” Sami has a beautiful and otherworldly vibe.

It sounds similar to an English name, making it a great choice.

Shadi

If you come from a musical family, Shadi might be the perfect choice.

This lovely name simply means “singer.”

Ziyad

Watching your baby boy grow and blossom is one of life’s most beautiful experiences.

Consider Ziyad, a name that means “growth.”

Cool Arabic Boy Names

Abdul

Abdul is pronounced AB-dool. It means “servant of.”

This name carries a sense of humility and service.

Aqil

Aqil translates to “intelligent” and “wise.”

It suggests that the person bearing this name is thoughtful and smart.

Barak

Barak means “blessing” in Arabic. You might also recognize it as a Hebrew name meaning “lightning.”

Adding a c before the last letter gives you the name of former president Barack Obama.

Fawaz

The name Fawaz translates to “successful” or “victorious.”

The final letter Z adds a modern touch.

Haytham

Haytham means “young eagle.”

Eagles symbolize strength, vision, and freedom, making this name represent power and independence.

Imran

Imran is a classic name, meaning “prosperity.”

This name is often used in Muslim tradition and is known as the name of the Virgin Mary’s father.

Mikha’il

Mikha’il is the Arabic form of Michael.

This name is popular among both Muslims and Christians. It brings a unique twist to a classic name.

Nahar

Nahar means “river.”

If you love nature or water, this name might appeal to you for its natural and refreshing feel.

Yusuf

Yusuf is the Arabic form of Joseph, meaning “he will add.”

This name is known from the famous British musician Yusuf Islam, who also went by Cat Stevens.

Ziya

The name Ziya translates to “light” and “splendor.”

It belonged to a fourteenth-century historian of Islamic Indian descent, giving it a touch of historical prestige.

Even More Arabic and Muslim Boy Names

Ayaan

Ayaan is a name that means “gift of God”. It signifies generosity and blessing.

Kian

Kian is a noble name meaning “king” or “foundation”.

It reflects strength and leadership.

Zayd

Zayd means “growth” or “abundance”.

It’s associated with prosperity and success.

Rayan

Rayan refers to “gates of Heaven”.

It’s linked to paradise and spiritual fulfillment.

Daniyal

Daniyal means “God is my judge”.

It emphasizes faith and divine justice.

Aariz

Aariz stands for “respectable man”.

It conveys honor and integrity.