The name "Aalyah" is a variant of "Aliyah", which means "rise" or "exaltation" in Arabic. It is a popular name for girls, but also for dogs who like to rise above others. The name has no official name day, but it could be celebrated on September 25, the day of St. Aliya, a 4th century martyr. The name originally comes from the Middle East, but became known worldwide through the American singer and actress Aaliyah, who died in a plane crash in 2001. Many dog owners name their four-legged friends "Aalyah" as a tribute to the deceased artist or simply because they like the sound of the name.