Skip to content

Name meaning & originJuma جمعة

/JOO-mah/

Make a name keepsake

Juma is a Swahili (from Arabic) boy's name pronounced /JOO-mah/. A popular name traditionally given to a boy born on Friday, symbolizing a day of gathering.

Share this name

Meaning of Juma

A popular name traditionally given to a boy born on Friday, symbolizing a day of gathering.

The name Juma is derived from the Arabic word 'Jumu'ah', which translates to 'congregation' or 'gathering'. In Islamic tradition and Swahili culture, it specifically refers to Friday, the holy day of assembly and communal prayer.

Origin
Swahili (from Arabic)
Pronunciation
/JOO-mah/

Cultural background

It is predominantly used in East Africa, particularly among Swahili-speaking communities in Tanzania and Kenya, traditionally bestowed upon boys born on a Friday.

Variations & nicknames

  • Djuma
  • Jumaan
  • Jumah
  • Jumane
  • Joman

Famous people named Juma

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Juma Ikangaa

    Renowned Tanzanian marathon runner and winner of the 1989 New York City Marathon.

    Sport · 1980s-1990s

  • Juma Kapuya

    Tanzanian politician who served as Minister of Defence and National Service.

    Politics · 1990s-2010s

  • Juma Nature

    Influential Tanzanian hip hop artist and member of the group TMK Wanaume.

    Music · 2000s-present

  • Juma Kisaame

    Prominent Ugandan businessman and former CEO of DFCU Bank.

    Business · 2000s-present

  • Juma Namangani

    Uzbek Islamist militant and co-founder of the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan.

    Politics · 1990s-2001

Frequently asked about Juma

What does Juma mean?
Juma is a Swahili name of Arabic origin meaning 'Friday' or 'day of gathering'.
How do you pronounce Juma?
It is pronounced JOO-mah, with a soft 'j' sound and emphasis on the first syllable.
Is Juma a boy or girl name?
Juma is traditionally a masculine name, though female equivalents like Jumaa or Najuma exist in some dialects.
What is the origin of the name Juma?
The name originates from the Arabic word for the Friday congregational prayer, adopted into Swahili culture through historical trade and religious influence.

Love Juma? Get more names like it

We'll email you 5 fresh Swahili (from Arabic) names each week — free, no spam.

By signing up you agree to get these name emails. We use your email only for them; unsubscribe any time from privacy requests. See our privacy policy. 18+ only.

Compare Juma with…

Side-by-side meaning, sound and popularity.

More Swahili (from Arabic) names

See all Swahili (from Arabic) names