Decision guide
Best Arabic Web Fonts for Reading
Compare measured web delivery costs and editorial roles for Amiri, Noto Naskh Arabic, Markazi Text, Scheherazade New, and Lateef.
Quick answer
Markazi Text is the smallest measured set
At 45.0 KB for Arabic regular and bold, it is the lightest option in this comparison. Size is one decision input—not proof of better readability, rendering, or overall product fit. Shortlist an Arabic body font for articles, documentation, and reading-heavy products.
Measured comparison
| Font | Arabic 400 + 700 | Arabic + Latin | Variable | Coverage | Starting role |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amiri | 203.6 KB | 242.6 KB | Not available | 7/7 | Traditional long-form reading |
| Noto Naskh Arabic | 103.2 KB | 126.2 KB | 91.8 KB | 7/7 | Long-form reading |
| Markazi Text | 45.0 KB | 75.5 KB | 40.4 KB | 7/7 | Editorial body and display |
| Scheherazade New | 164.8 KB | 191.2 KB | Not available | 7/7 | Scholarly and long-form reading |
| Lateef | 126.7 KB | 152.1 KB | Not available | 7/7 | Traditional editorial text |
How to decide
- 1. Shortlist by role.
Match interface, reading, or display needs before bytes.
- 2. Compare exact delivery.
Include every subset and weight the product will ship.
- 3. Test real Arabic copy.
Review dense UI, long text, digits, and mixed-script lines.