Islamic calligraphy is more than decoration. Each phrase carries a meaning, and choosing the right words for a room is part of the beauty of Islamic home décor. Here is a simple guide to the phrases our customers in the UAE ask about most, with their meanings and where they are usually displayed.
Phrases of remembrance (dhikr)
Bismillah ir-Rahman ir-Rahim
Meaning: “In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.”
Arabic: بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
Muslims say Bismillah before beginning any action, which is why it is a favourite for entrances, living rooms and dining areas. See our Bismillah wall art collection.
Mashallah
Meaning: “What Allah has willed.”
Arabic: ما شاء الله
Said in appreciation of a blessing. Popular above a front door, in a new home or in a child’s room.
Subhan Allah
Meaning: “Glory be to Allah.”
Arabic: سبحان الله
Alhamdulillah Rabbil Alamin
Meaning: “All praise is for Allah, Lord of all the worlds.” (Surah Al-Fatiha 1:2)
Arabic: الحمد لله رب العالمين
Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyum
Meaning: “O Ever-Living, O Sustainer of all.”
Arabic: يا حي يا قيوم
Duas and phrases of trust
Hasbunallahu wa ni‘mal wakeel
Meaning: “Allah is sufficient for us, and He is the best Disposer of affairs.” (Surah Al Imran 3:173)
Arabic: حسبنا الله ونعم الوكيل
La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah
Meaning: “There is no power and no strength except with Allah.”
Arabic: لا حول ولا قوة إلا بالله
Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanah
Meaning: “Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:201)
Arabic: ربنا آتنا في الدنيا حسنة
These are lovely in a study, office or prayer corner. Browse our dua wall art.
Quranic verses
Haza min fadli Rabbi
Meaning: “This is from the bounty of my Lord.” (Surah An-Naml 27:40)
Arabic: هذا من فضل ربي
A classic choice for a new home, shop or office, as a reminder that every blessing comes from Allah.
Fabi ayyi ala’i Rabbikuma tukazziban
Meaning: “Then which of the favours of your Lord will you deny?” (Surah Ar-Rahman 55:13)
Arabic: فبأي آلاء ربكما تكذبان
Allahu nurus-samawati wal-ard
Meaning: “Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth.” (Surah An-Nur 24:35)
Arabic: الله نور السماوات والأرض
Wallahu khairur-raziqin
Meaning: “And Allah is the best of providers.” (Surah Al-Jumu‘ah 62:11)
Arabic: والله خير الرازقين
Nasrun minallahi wa fathun qarib
Meaning: “Help from Allah and a near victory.” (Surah As-Saff 61:13)
Arabic: نصر من الله وفتح قريب
Iyyaka na‘budu wa iyyaka nasta‘in
Meaning: “You alone we worship, and You alone we ask for help.” (Surah Al-Fatiha 1:5)
Arabic: إياك نعبد وإياك نستعين
Short surahs such as Al-Ikhlas (112), Al-Falaq (113), An-Nas (114) and Al-Kafirun (109) are also popular as full calligraphy panels. Explore our Quranic verse wall art.
Frequently asked questions
Which Islamic phrase is best for a new home?
Bismillah, Mashallah and “Haza min fadli Rabbi” are the most common choices for a new home, as they express beginning with Allah’s name and gratitude for His blessings.
Which phrase suits an office or shop?
“Wallahu khairur-raziqin” (Allah is the best of providers) and “Haza min fadli Rabbi” are popular in business spaces.
Is it respectful to hang Quranic verses on the wall?
Many Muslim homes display Quranic calligraphy. Scholars generally advise treating it with respect: keep it clean, hang it at a dignified height, and avoid bathrooms or places where it could be disrespected. See our guide to where to hang Islamic wall art.
Need help choosing? Contact Al Malek Design on WhatsApp at +971 50 766 8139.
Frequently asked questions
What does Bismillah mean?
Bismillah ir-Rahman ir-Rahim (بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم) means “In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.” Muslims say it before starting any action, and it opens every surah of the Qur’an except Surah At-Tawbah.
What does Mashallah mean?
Mashallah (ما شاء الله) means “What Allah has willed.” It is said when admiring a blessing, such as a new home, a child or success, to acknowledge that it comes from Allah.
What does Haza Min Fazle Rabbi mean?
Haza Min Fazle Rabbi (هذا من فضل ربي) means “This is from the bounty of my Lord.” It comes from the Qur’an, Surah An-Naml 27:40, and is often displayed in new homes, shops and offices.
Which Islamic phrase is best for a home entrance?
Bismillah and Mashallah are the most popular choices for an entrance or front hall, because they welcome guests with the name of Allah and a reminder of His blessings.
What are Al Malek Design calligraphy pieces made of?
Each piece is cut from 3 mm aluminium and powder-coated in Black, Gold or Metallic White. Wall pieces come with fixings and spacers; tabletop pieces stand on a wooden base.
