The name Loai is an Arabic masculine given name with roots stretching back to the 7th century. It originates from the Arabic word "lawa'a", meaning "to take refuge" or "to seek shelter". The name is thought to have gained popularity during the early Islamic period, as it carries a sense of seeking protection and guidance from God.

In the Quran, the holy book of Islam, the word "lawa'a" appears in several verses, often in the context of seeking refuge in Allah. This religious connection likely contributed to the name's widespread use among Arabic-speaking communities throughout the Middle East and North Africa.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Loai can be found in the writings of the renowned 9th-century Islamic scholar and historian, Al-Tabari. He mentions a man named Loai ibn Abi Salih, who was a prominent scholar and teacher in the city of Kufa, Iraq, during the 8th century.

Another notable figure bearing the name Loai was Loai ibn Ghalib, a 10th-century Arab poet and philosopher from Andalusia (modern-day Spain). His poems and philosophical works were widely celebrated during his lifetime and continue to be studied by scholars today.

In the 12th century, a renowned Islamic mystic and Sufi scholar named Loai al-Din al-Bukhari lived in present-day Afghanistan. He was known for his spiritual teachings and his contributions to the field of Sufism, which emphasizes the mystical aspects of Islam.

During the Ottoman Empire, which ruled over much of the Middle East and parts of Europe from the 14th to the early 20th century, the name Loai was also found among the ruling elite. One notable figure was Loai Pasha, an 18th-century Ottoman statesman and military commander who served as the governor of several provinces.

In more recent times, the name Loai has been carried by individuals from various fields, including literature, art, and politics. One such figure is Loai Deeb, a contemporary Syrian novelist and poet known for his works that explore themes of identity, displacement, and the human condition.