The name Zulay is believed to have its origins in the Arabic language, stemming from the word "zula," which means "to be abundant" or "to be plentiful." This name was likely first used in the Arabian Peninsula or the Middle East region during the early centuries of the Islamic era, around the 7th or 8th century AD.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Zulay can be found in the writings of the renowned Arab poet and philosopher Al-Mutanabbi, who lived from 915 to 965 AD. In his poetic works, he referenced a woman named Zulay, though little is known about her historical significance.

In the 12th century, the name Zulay gained prominence when it was mentioned in the works of the influential Islamic scholar and philosopher Ibn Rushd, also known as Averroes. He cited a woman named Zulay in his philosophical treatises, though the exact context is unclear.

The first notable historical figure to bear the name Zulay was Zulay bint al-Hassan, a renowned poet and scholar from the Abbasid Caliphate in present-day Iraq. She lived from 810 to 880 AD and was celebrated for her contributions to Arabic literature and poetry.

Another prominent figure named Zulay was Zulay al-Andalusi, a renowned Islamic scholar and writer from the Iberian Peninsula (modern-day Spain and Portugal). She lived during the 11th century and was renowned for her expertise in various fields, including Islamic jurisprudence, philosophy, and literature.

In the 13th century, Zulay al-Baghdadi, a renowned Islamic mystic and Sufi poet, gained recognition for her spiritual teachings and poetic works. She was born in Baghdad, Iraq, and her writings had a significant influence on the Sufi tradition in the region.

During the 15th century, Zulay al-Misri, an Egyptian scholar and writer, made notable contributions to Islamic scholarship. She was particularly renowned for her work on Quranic exegesis and Islamic law.

In more recent history, Zulay Pogba, a Guinean activist and entrepreneur, has been a prominent figure in the fight for women's rights and economic empowerment in West Africa. She was born in 1964 and has been recognized for her efforts in promoting education and entrepreneurship opportunities for women.