For centuries, Arabian perfume has held a reputation for being rich, mysterious, luxurious—and often elusive to the Western market. But recently, a global fragrance revolution is underway. From TikTok influencers raving about oud to celebrities layering with Bakhoor-inspired scents, the West is finally waking up to the ancient art of Middle Eastern perfumery.

This blog is your complete guide to Arabian perfumes, the best ouds, intoxicating Bakhoor, and why they’re taking over fragrance counters across Europe and the U.S. We'll explore their history, signature notes, and must-try products if you want to join the movement.

? The Rise of Arabian Perfumes in the West

The surge in popularity of Arabian scents isn't random—it’s the result of several factors:

• Social Media Hype: Fragrance content creators have made oud and Bakhoor viral, introducing curious audiences to new olfactory worlds.

• Luxury Appeal: Middle Eastern fragrances are known for using pure essential oils, natural ingredients, and traditional distillation—qualities that resonate with today’s conscious consumers.

• Layering Culture: Arab perfumery encourages blending scents, which fits perfectly with the Western shift toward customized fragrance.

• Celebrity Influence: Icons like Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Chris Hemsworth have been spotted wearing oud-rich perfumes.

? What Sets Arabian Perfumes Apart?

Here’s what makes Middle Eastern fragrances unique and deeply compelling:

1. Strong Concentrations

Arabian perfumes often come in perfume oil form or as Eau de Parfum (EDP) with extremely high concentrations—meaning a little goes a long way.

2. Natural Ingredients

From sandalwood essential oil to white musk, the focus is on raw, luxurious components that feel rich on the skin.

3. Bold Signature Notes

Western perfumery often plays it safe. Arabian perfumery doesn’t. You’ll find strong use of:

• Oud (agarwood)

• Amber

• Saffron

• Rose de Mai

• Bakhoor (incense wood chips soaked in perfumed oil)

? What Is Oud?

Oud, also known as agarwood, is a dark, resinous wood that forms when a specific mold infects the Aquilaria tree. It is one of the most expensive and luxurious perfume ingredients in the world.

Oud's Characteristics:

• Smoky, woody, and resinous

• Intensely aromatic and long-lasting

• Used both in traditional oil form and as an ingredient in Western fragrances

?️ What Is Bakhoor?

Bakhoor refers to fragrant wood chips soaked in perfume oil, often burned as incense in homes and mosques. The smoke creates a heavenly scent that lingers on clothes, skin, and hair.

Why Westerners Love It:

• Great for home scenting

• Can scent clothing for days

• Associated with hospitality and tradition

• Gives perfumes an exotic, sensual base

? Best Arabian Perfume Brands You Should Know

Whether you're after the intense richness of oud or the soothing warmth of Bakhoor, these brands deliver:

1. Swiss Arabian

One of the most iconic houses blending East and West. Their offerings include perfume oils, EDPs, and Bakhoor.

Must-try:

• Shaghaf Oud: A warm, spicy, and deep oud-rose combo beloved online.

• Layali: Floral, fruity, and rich in white musk.

2. Ajmal Perfumes

Ajmal is a legend in Arabian perfumery. With over 70 years of heritage, their oils and sprays are intricate and deeply luxurious.

Must-try:

• Amber Wood: Woody, spicy, with a luxurious dry down.

• Dahn Al Oudh: A high-concentration oud oil, perfect for layering.

3. Rasasi

This Dubai-based brand blends modern perfumery with classic Arabian roots.

Must-try:

• La Yuqawam: A tobacco-oud fragrance often compared to high-end Western designer scents.

4. Al Haramain

Known for traditional attars and iconic Bakhoor. Their packaging is stunning, and the scents—often under $50—are shockingly potent.

Must-try:

• Amber Oud Gold Edition: Often compared to Initio or MFK.

• Oudh Ma’al Attar Bakhoor: Warm, rich incense for home and body.

? Best Arabian Ouds to Try (Even for Beginners)

If you're new to oud and want to ease in, here are entry-level to luxe options:

? Beginner Oud: Oud Satin Mood by Maison Francis Kurkdjian

While a French brand, this fragrance pays heavy homage to Arabian perfumery with sweet oud, rose, and vanilla.

? Oud + Rose Combo: Swiss Arabian Shaghaf Oud

Affordable, powerful, and TikTok viral.

? Smoky Oud: Rasasi La Yuqawam

Think leather jackets, cigar lounges, and mystery.

? Pure Oud Oil: Ajmal Dahn Al Oudh

This is pure oud oil—potent, intimate, and ideal for skin layering.