mahbub

Mahbub is a masculine given name of Arabic origin that is widely used in Muslim-majority regions, particularly in South Asia and the Middle East. It derives from the Arabic word mahbub, meaning beloved or dear, and has produced several transliterations in different languages and cultures.

The spelling variants include Mahbub, Mahbob, Mehboob, Mehboob, and Mehbub. In South Asia, the name is common in Urdu and Persian-influenced speech and is often found as a first name. In other contexts, it may appear in slightly different forms or, less commonly, as a surname.

Notable individuals with the name include Mahbub Ul Haq (1934–1998), a Pakistani economist who helped develop the modern Human Development Index and led the UNDP Human Development Report Office. Mahbub Ali Khan, Asaf Jah VI, was the sixth Nizam of the princely state of Hyderabad. Mehboob Khan (1907–1964), an Indian film director and producer, is known for landmark films such as Mother India.

The name Mahbub has also appeared in place names and historical references within the Indian subcontinent, reflecting its association with leadership and public life in various eras. Overall, Mahbub remains a culturally significant name in regions influenced by Arabic and Persian linguistic traditions.