The name Alia is derived from the Arabic word 'Ali', which means 'lofty' or 'sublime'. It has its roots in the Arabic language and Islamic culture, and is believed to have originated in the Middle East during the spread of Islam in the 7th century.

One of the earliest and most notable references to the name Alia can be found in the Quran, the holy book of Islam. It is mentioned as a variation of the name Ali, which was the name of the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad. Ali played a significant role in the establishment and spread of Islam, and is revered as one of the most important figures in Islamic history.

The name Alia gained popularity among Muslims and was used across various regions of the Middle East and North Africa. It was particularly common in countries like Egypt, Syria, and Morocco. Over the centuries, the name has also been adopted by non-Muslim communities in these regions, as well as in other parts of the world.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Alia can be found in the 9th century, when Princess Alia bint Al-Mahdi, the daughter of the Abbasid caliph Al-Mahdi, was born in Baghdad. She was a renowned poet and scholar, and her work contributed significantly to the literary and intellectual culture of the time.

Another notable figure in history with the name Alia was Alia Al-Mahdi (1059-1121), a Fatimid princess and scholar from Egypt. She was known for her expertise in various fields, including mathematics, astronomy, and Islamic jurisprudence, and played a crucial role in the intellectual and cultural life of the Fatimid Caliphate.

In the 12th century, Alia Muhammed, a Sufi mystic and poet from Iran, gained recognition for her spiritual teachings and her contribution to Persian literature. Her works explored themes of love, devotion, and the mystical path towards union with the divine.

During the Ottoman Empire, Alia Mustafa Pasha (1541-1587) was a prominent military leader and statesman. He served as the Grand Vizier, the highest-ranking political advisor to the Sultan, and played a key role in the expansion and governance of the Ottoman territories.

In more recent history, Alia Shawkat (born in 1989) is an American actress and artist of Iraqi descent. She is best known for her roles in popular TV shows like Arrested Development and Search Party, and has received critical acclaim for her performances.