Soraya is a beautiful name with Persian origins. It means “star” or “princess” and is derived from the Arabic word “Thurayya,” which refers to the Pleiades star cluster. This name has been popular in Iran and other Middle Eastern countries for centuries. In recent years, it has gained popularity in Western countries as well, appreciated for its exotic sound and meaningful connotation.
The name Soraya gained international recognition through Queen Soraya Tarzi of Afghanistan, who was a strong advocate for women’s rights in the early 20th century. This association has inspired many parents to choose this name for their daughters, seeing it as a symbol of strength and progress.