The name Naeem has its origins in the Arabic language and culture, with roots traced back to the 7th century CE. It is derived from the Arabic word 'na'eem,' which means 'blissful' or 'pleasant.' The name is often associated with concepts of joy, contentment, and tranquility.

In Islamic tradition, the name Naeem is mentioned in the Quran, the holy book of Islam, as one of the names of Paradise. It is used to describe the peaceful and blissful state of the righteous in the afterlife. This association has given the name a revered status among Muslims worldwide.

The earliest recorded use of the name Naeem can be found in historical records from the early Islamic period. One notable figure was Naeem ibn Masud, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad, who lived in the 7th century CE. He is known for his role in the conquest of Khaybar, a Jewish settlement in the Arabian Peninsula.

Throughout history, several prominent individuals have borne the name Naeem. One such figure was Naeem Frasheri (1846-1900), an Albanian writer, poet, and translator who played a significant role in the Albanian National Awakening movement. Another was Naeem Rashid (1977-2019), a Pakistani-born professor who lost his life while trying to disarm a gunman during the Christchurch mosque shootings in New Zealand.

Other notable individuals with the name Naeem include Naeem Khan (born 1958), an Indian-American fashion designer known for his glamorous evening wear; Naeem Ul Haque (born 1956), a Pakistani cricketer who played for the national team in the 1970s and 1980s; and Naeem Mohaiemen (born 1969), a Bangladeshi-American visual artist and writer whose work explores themes of migration and displacement.

The name Naeem has also been embraced by various cultures and communities beyond the Arabic-speaking world. It has gained popularity among Muslims in South Asia, particularly in Pakistan and Bangladesh, as well as in parts of Africa and Europe.