Raya
Raya first appears in US records in 1958. It peaked in 2023, when 867 girls were given the name; in 2025 there were 831.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Raya popular?
Near its peak Raya is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2023.
| 2020s | 4,256 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 2,087 | |
| 2000s | 1,052 | |
| 1990s | 385 | |
| 1980s | 138 | |
| 1970s | 64 | |
| 1960s | 16 | |
| 1950s | 5 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Raya mean?
As an Arabic name Raya has two attested sources: rayya (ريا) 'aroma, fragrance, perfume', and raya (راية) 'flag, banner, ensign'; the intended sense varies by family, so it is best treated as disputed. Disambiguation: Raya also means 'celebration' in Malay (Hari Raya) and appears in Hebrew ('friend') and Slavic use - unrelated origins.
Names like Raya
arabic names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Raya
Popular arabic names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Raya
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Raya mean?
Raya means Fragrance; or banner. As an Arabic name Raya has two attested sources: rayya (ريا) 'aroma, fragrance, perfume', and raya (راية) 'flag, banner, ensign'; the intended sense varies by family, so it is best treated as disputed. Disambiguation: Raya also means 'celebration' in Malay (Hari Raya) and appears in Hebrew ('friend') and Slavic use - unrelated origins.
What is the origin of the name Raya?
Raya is of arabic origin.
How do you pronounce Raya?
Raya is pronounced “RAH-yah.”
Is Raya a boy or a girl name?
Raya is most commonly used as a girl name.
Is Raya a popular name right now?
Raya is more popular now than at almost any point on record, peaking in 2023.
How popular is the name Raya?
In 2025, Raya ranked #369 among girls’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Raya most popular?
Raya was most popular in 2023, when about 867 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to Raya?
Names similar to Raya include Maryam, Mariam, Yara, Lina, Salma.
What names go well with Raya?
arabic names that pair well with Raya include Adam, Layla, Aaliyah, Malik, Amir.