Last Name Qureshi

The last name "Qureshi" is of Arabic origin, specifically from the Quraysh tribe, which was a prominent tribe in Mecca at the time of the Prophet Muhammad. The Qureshi tribe is considered one of the noblest Arab tribes and many individuals with this last name can trace their ancestry back to this tribe. Today, the Qureshi surname is commonly found among Muslims in Pakistan and India.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Qureshi

The meaning and origin of the last name Qureshi

The surname Qureshi is of Arabic origin, derived from the title of Quraish, which means "sharer" or "distributor". The Quraish were a powerful tribe in Mecca during the time of the Prophet Muhammad. The name is predominantly found among Muslim communities in South Asia, particularly among the Muslim and Mughal communities in India and Pakistan. The Qureshi clan is traditionally associated with the occupation of butchers, as they were responsible for slaughtering animals and distributing meat among the community. Over time, many individuals from the Qureshi community have branched out into various professions, but they still hold on to their cultural and religious heritage. Today, the surname Qureshi is a common and prestigious name among Muslim families in South Asia.

Geographical distribution of the last name Qureshi

The last name Qureshi is predominantly found in Pakistan and India, with a large concentration in the Punjab region. In Pakistan, the Qureshi clan is known for their involvement in agriculture, particularly cattle farming and butchery. The name also has a significant presence in countries with large South Asian diasporas, such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Saudi Arabia. In these countries, individuals with the last name Qureshi are often involved in a variety of professions, including business, medicine, and law. The Qureshi surname is of Arabic origin, and it is believed to have been adopted by individuals who were descendants of the Prophet Muhammad's cousin, Quresh ibn Makram. Today, the name continues to symbolize a sense of pride and cultural heritage for those who bear it.

Variants and spellings of the last name Qureshi

Qureshi is a surname that can be spelled in several variations including Quraishi, Kureshi, Kureshy, Qureshy, Quraishy, Kureshi, Kuresh, Quresh, Quraish, and Kuraishi. These variations may differ based on regional influences, dialects, and transliteration preferences. Qureshi is a common surname among people of Pakistani, Indian, and Bangladeshi descent, particularly among individuals of the Muslim faith. The Qureshi surname is often associated with people belonging to the Qureshi tribe, which holds a prestigious status in South Asian societies due to its historical ties to the Prophet Muhammad. Regardless of the spelling variation, individuals with the surname Qureshi can trace their ancestry back to a shared cultural and familial heritage.

Famous people with the last name Qureshi

One famous person with the last name Qureshi is Meesha Shafi, a Pakistani actress, model, and singer. She is known for her work in the Pakistani entertainment industry, appearing in films such as "Moor" and "The Reluctant Fundamentalist." Another well-known figure with the last name Qureshi is Hamza Ali Qureshi, a popular actor in Pakistan who has starred in numerous television dramas and films. He is celebrated for his versatile acting skills and charismatic on-screen presence. The Qureshi family is also prominent in the political sphere, with Shah Mehmood Qureshi serving as the current Foreign Minister of Pakistan. The Qureshi name is synonymous with talent, creativity, and influence in various fields, making them a respected and revered family in Pakistan.

Genealogical research on the last name Qureshi

The surname Qureshi is believed to have originated in South Asia, particularly among the Muslim community. It is often associated with the Qureshi tribe, which has a long and prestigious lineage dating back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad. The Qureshi tribe is said to be descendants of Quresh, who was an ancestor of Muhammad and a prominent figure in the early Islamic era. The name Qureshi is also linked to individuals who were traditionally involved in the profession of butchery, as the word "quraish" means butcher in Arabic. Today, the Qureshi surname is commonly found in Pakistan, India, and other parts of South Asia, with many individuals proudly identifying with their ancestral roots and heritage. Genealogical research on the Qureshi surname often reveals a rich tapestry of history, culture, and tradition within the Muslim community.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Qureshi"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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