Muhammad Baby Names See 700% Surge in Europe

The name Muhammad has soared in popularity across Europe, becoming a top choice for parents and a powerful symbol of the continent's growing diversity and the deep-seated cultural pride of its Muslim communities. Recent data reveals a more than 700% increase in the name's prevalence in some regions since the turn of the millennium, reflecting a vibrant and evolving European landscape.

In England and Wales, the name Muhammad has held the top spot for baby boys for two consecutive years, with the specific spelling "Muhammad" given to 5,721 boys in 2024 alone, a 23% rise from the previous year. This remarkable ascent is a testament to the reverence Muslims have for the name of Islam's founder, which means 'praiseworthy' or 'commendable.' Many families consider it a blessing to bestow this name upon their children, linking them to a rich religious and cultural heritage.

The trend is not isolated to the UK. An analysis of data from 11 European countries shows that the name and its variations—including Mohammed, Mohammad, Mohamed, and Mohamad—are also increasingly common elsewhere. In Austria, one in every 200 boys is now named Muhammad, a stark increase from one in 1,670 in 2000. Similar growth has been observed in Belgium, France, and the Netherlands.

This rise in popularity reflects the growing presence of Muslim communities, but also a shift in how immigrants and their descendants view their identity. As research from The Economist highlights, a new generation of parents is proudly selecting names that preserve their cultural heritage, seeing it as a statement of belonging rather than a barrier to integration. This contrasts with past generations who sometimes felt pressure to adopt more "European-sounding" names. Today, the choice to name a child Muhammad is a joyful affirmation of identity and a visible sign of belonging.

The widespread appeal of public figures, such as world-renowned footballer Mohamed Salah, has also played a part in the name's mainstream acceptance and celebration. The diversity of the name itself is a sign of global connections; the various spellings, from the widely used "Muhammad" to the more common "Mohammed" in South Asian communities, reflect the linguistic and cultural richness within the global Muslim community.

While some groups have expressed concern over the demographic shift, this trend is a positive indicator of a pluralistic Europe. The fact that a name of such profound religious and cultural significance is now a popular choice is a powerful symbol of a society that is becoming more inclusive and accepting. The name Mohammed first appeared in the top 100 names in England and Wales a century ago, in 1924, showing the long-standing presence and deep roots of Muslim communities in the UK. This latest surge in popularity builds on that history, demonstrating that cultural identity and belonging can coexist and thrive in a diverse Europe.