Thuraya

/thu-RYE-ah/

ArabicGirl

Thuraya is an Arabic girl's name pronounced /thu-RYE-ah/. Named after the Pleiades star cluster, symbolizing brilliance and high status.

Meaning of Thuraya

Named after the Pleiades star cluster, symbolizing brilliance and high status.

Thuraya originates from the Arabic word meaning a cluster of seven stars, specifically referring to the Pleiades constellation. In Arabic literature and cosmology, it historically symbolizes lofty heights, luminosity, and a source of guidance for travelers.

Origin
Arabic
Pronunciation
/thu-RYE-ah/

Cultural background

The name remains a classic choice across the Arab world, particularly in the Levant and Gulf regions, often used to denote elegance and high social standing.

Variations & nicknames

  • Thurayya
  • Thoraya
  • Soraya
  • Suraya
  • Thuraia

Famous people named Thuraya

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

  • Soraya Tarzi

    Queen consort of Afghanistan and a pioneering feminist leader.

    Politics · 1899–1968

  • Thoraya Ahmed Obaid

    The first Saudi Arabian to head a United Nations agency (UNFPA).

    Diplomacy · 1945–present

  • Soraya Esfandiary-Bakhtiary

    Queen consort of Iran and later a notable actress.

    Royalty · 1932–2001

  • Thuraya Al-Qatami

    A prominent Kuwaiti artist and pioneer in the Gulf modern art movement.

    Art · 1936–present

  • Thuraya Qabil

    Renowned Saudi poet and journalist, known for her contributions to Hijazi literature.

    Literature · 1943–present

Frequently asked about Thuraya

What does Thuraya mean?
Thuraya is an Arabic name meaning 'the Pleiades,' a prominent star cluster in the constellation Taurus, symbolizing brilliance and high status.
How do you pronounce Thuraya?
It is pronounced thu-RAI-yah, with a soft 'th' sound as in 'think' and a slight emphasis on the second syllable.
Is Thuraya a boy or girl name?
Thuraya is exclusively used as a feminine given name in Arabic-speaking cultures.
Is the name Thuraya mentioned in the Quran?
While the Pleiades are noted in Islamic astronomy, the specific name Thuraya is not mentioned as a proper name in the Quranic text.

Love Thuraya? Get more names like it

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

Compare Thuraya with…

Side-by-side meaning, sound and popularity.

More Arabic names

See all Arabic names
Find more names like Thuraya