The name Amira is of Arabic origin, derived from the word "amir" meaning "prince" or "ruler." It is a feminine form of the masculine name Amir, which has been in use since ancient times in the Arab world.

The earliest known reference to the name Amira can be traced back to the 7th century, during the Islamic Golden Age. At that time, it was commonly used as a title for princesses or daughters of rulers in the Arab world.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Amira is Amira bint Abd al-Rahman, who lived in the 8th century and was the daughter of the Umayyad caliph Abd al-Rahman I. She is known for her poetry and her involvement in the intellectual circles of the time.

Another notable figure in history with the name Amira is Amira Bint Ali Al-Jamal, a 12th-century Arab poet and scholar from modern-day Iraq. She was renowned for her contributions to literature and her expertise in various fields, including mathematics and astronomy.

In the 13th century, Amira Fatima bint Yahya Al-Fayrouz, a Syrian scholar and poet, gained prominence for her literary works and her involvement in the cultural life of Damascus.

Moving forward in time, Amira Bashir, born in 1910 in Egypt, was a pioneering feminist and activist who fought for women's rights and education in the Middle East.

Amira Hass, born in 1956, is an Israeli journalist and author known for her coverage of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and her advocacy for human rights.

While the name Amira has its roots in the Arab world, it has gained popularity across various cultures and regions over the centuries. Its meaning of "princess" or "ruler" has contributed to its appeal, as it evokes a sense of strength, power, and nobility.