The Riq`a style of handwriting is one of the “modern” types of handwriting. It was said to have been invented by Mr. Mumtaz Bek Mustafa Effendi, the counselor, who set its rules in AH 1280, in the reign of Sultan `Abd Al-Majdi Khan, although some believe that the Riq`a goes back to the time of Sultan Muhammad Al-Fateh.

This style of handwriting is known for its clipped letters. It was probably derived from the Thuluth and Naskh styles. Riq`a is a beautiful script known for its straight lines. It does not entail any formation. It is clear and readable and is the easiest of all kinds for daily handwriting. In the beginning, it was the most common for daily use, especially for women. It is used in the titles of books and magazines and in commercial advertisements, thanks to its simplicity and clearness. The simplicity of the Riq`a is attributed to the simple geometric formation of its letters, which are reliant on easily formed straight lines and circles.