Latest news with #oud
Arab News
05-07-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Scent economy rises as Gulf fragrances shape identity and status
RIYADH: In the Gulf, fragrance and its various perfume notes are increasingly seen not just as personal accessories but as symbols of identity, refinement, and wealth. From morning rituals with oud to intricate perfume layering before gatherings, the scent economy is booming across the Gulf Cooperation Council region. This regional passion has fueled a multi-billion-riyal industry, deeply rooted in tradition, yet continually evolving through innovation. According to a recent report by Research and Markets, Saudi Arabia's perfume market is projected to grow from $2.12 billion in 2023 to $3.57 billion by 2033, registering a compound annual growth rate of 5.94 percent. Demand for high-end and artisanal fragrances, greater ecological awareness, and the rise of online commerce are reshaping the market. From ritual to refinement In the Gulf, fragrance is more than just an aesthetic choice; it's a cultural expression, often beginning with the application of Royal Cambodian oud, followed by the practice of layering complementary scents. Both Rasasi and Lattafa Perfumes, major fragrance brands across the GCC, emphasize how deep-rooted traditions are central to the region's distinctive scent profile. 'Scent is deeply embedded in the cultural and spiritual fabric of the Gulf. Unlike Western fragrance preferences that often lean toward freshness or minimalism, the GCC palette is bold, sensual, and opulent — driven by heritage ingredients like oud, amber, rose, and saffron,' said Talha Kalsekar, head of marketing at Rasasi Perfumes. He added: 'These are not seasonal indulgences but part of daily rituals — from welcoming guests to post-shower layering. It's also a multi-sensory form of expression: to wear scent is to project dignity, refinement, and often, status.' Echoing this, Fragrance Development Head at Lattafa Perfumes, Abdul Rahim Shaikh, said: 'Scent in Gulf culture is symbolic, it signals pride, hospitality, and self-respect. Certain notes like oud, musk, rose, and amber aren't just popular, they are integral to religious, social, and even business rituals.' This cultural resonance influences both the composition and consumption of perfumes. From layering of oils, sprays, and incense to the use of oud, musk, rose, and saffron, these ingredients are not trends, but mainstays. The modern customer Both brands are experiencing a shift in their customer base, now engaging with a more informed and expressive clientele, one that values storytelling, sustainability, and personalization just as much as the quality of the scent itself. 'Consumers in the GCC are no longer just buying scents — they're curating olfactory wardrobes. They understand ingredients, appreciate craftsmanship, and are willing to spend more on exclusive blends, limited editions, and artisanal formats,' Kalsekar said. Lattafa highlighted this evolution as well: 'They are looking for emotional connection and long-lasting quality ... The preference leans toward intense, long-lasting, and layered compositions.' This growing discernment has given rise to gender-neutral perfumes, higher concentrations such as extrait de parfum, and niche storytelling, especially popular among younger demographics. This is also evident in the rise of demand for full-scent experiences, including body oils, hair mists, and incense-inspired aromas. Tech meets tradition Innovation is a defining trait of the evolving fragrance economy. Both Rasasi and Lattafa are integrating artificial intelligence to personalize experiences and streamline product development. 'We're actively exploring the intersection of scent and technology. While our roots are artisanal, we recognize the value of AI in streamlining formulation processes, especially for large-scale testing and trend forecasting,' said Kalsekar. He added: 'We're also experimenting with in-store scent personalization tools — allowing customers to co-create their fragrances.' Lattafa is also blending AI modeling with traditional craftsmanship. 'While we remain deeply committed to the artistry of perfumery, we're exploring the role of AI and personalization to enhance consumer experience. We're currently working on tech integrations that allow for better digital scent discovery and curated recommendations across our e-commerce platforms,' Shaikh said. Although AI can be a tool for personalizing scent creation, Shaikh emphasized that it will not replace intuition and tradition. The digital dimension With Saudi Arabia's population becoming increasingly digital-savvy, brands are investing heavily in online infrastructure to align with changing shopping behaviors. Social media and e-commerce platforms now serve as essential tools for storytelling, customer engagement, and market expansion. In parallel with these digital shifts, Beautyworld Saudi Arabia, the largest trade fair for the aesthetics industry in the nation held in Riyadh in April, offered a tangible platform for brands to establish a physical presence in the Kingdom. Consumers in the GCC are no longer just buying scents — they're curating olfactory wardrobes. They understand ingredients, appreciate craftsmanship, and are willing to spend more on exclusive blends. Talha Kalsekar, head of marketing at Rasasi Perfumes The event also included several business matchmaking sessions and panel discussions, enabling regional and international fragrance brands to network, explore distribution deals, and assess market entry strategies for Saudi Arabia's growing luxury sector. Fragrance World Perfumes, for example, used its debut at the 2024 edition of the event not just as a launchpad, but as a bridge between its global digital identity and on-the-ground consumer engagement. Operating in over 125 countries, the UAE-based manufacturer leveraged the gathering to showcase multiple fragrance lines and reinforce its commitment to the Kingdom's growing beauty and luxury sectors. Lattafa, in particular, is capitalizing on social media virality, citing how fragrances like Khamrah have gained traction on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram. Shaikh noted that fragrance today is not only worn but also seen and shared, becoming both a visual and cultural phenomenon. Rasasi also views digital and physical retail as intertwined. 'Physical retail remains essential — it's where the emotional connection to scent is first made. So we see online and offline not as competitors, but as complementary chapters of the same brand experience,' said Kalsekar. Luxury, loyalty and local pride Saudi Arabia is facing intense competition from both global and regional players in the industry. While brands like Chanel and Dior retain their prestige, homegrown names like Abdul Samad Al-Qurashi and Arabian Oud dominate through cultural connection. A half tola, or around 6 milliliters, of Royal Cambodian oud from Arabian Oud costs SR600 ($160). To remain competitive, physical retail continues to adapt. Ghawali, the Chalhoub Group's fragrance brand, launched a flagship store in Riyadh's Nakheel Mall in January 2023, blending modern design with traditional elements and preparing to unveil a Saudi-inspired fragrance collection. Further emphasizing cultural continuity, the 'Perfumes of the East' exhibition held in May 2024 under the patronage of Prince Badr bin Farhan, displayed over 200 artifacts at the National Museum in Riyadh. The show celebrated the Arab world's enduring relationship with fragrance. Fragrance outlook The Eau de Parfum segment is forecasted to dominate due to its longevity and intensity, qualities valued in the region. Fragrance demand is expected to continue growing, driven primarily by the youth market, primarily comprising urban consumers aged 20 to 40, with women leading the way in consumption. Import duties and high costs remain barriers, but these challenges have led to a rise in regional manufacturing and increased interest in niche local offerings.
Khaleej Times
02-06-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE perfume industry: From oud roots to global heights of luxury
From the smoky allure of oud to the delicate touch of rose and musk, fragrances have long held a sacred place in the cultural fabric of the Middle East. In the UAE, this age-old tradition has blossomed into a multi-million-dollar industry — one that marries heritage with innovation and is now drawing global attention. What was once a ritual rooted in tradition, with handcrafted perfumes sold in small glass vials at local souqs, has transformed into a sophisticated industry powering regional and international markets. The UAE has rapidly emerged as one of the largest producers and exporters of perfumes in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region, turning its olfactory heritage into a full-fledged economic success story. According to a recent report by IMARC Group, the UAE's perfume market reached a remarkable $748.9 million in 2024. With a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.22 per cent from 2025 to 2033, the market is expected to more than double and hit $1.72 billion by the end of the forecast period — a testament to the country's rising prominence in the global fragrance industry. A fragrant history Perfume-making in the Arab world dates back centuries, with roots stretching to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Yet it was the Arab civilisation that perfected the craft through the introduction of distillation techniques and the incorporation of regional natural ingredients like oud, musk, and amber. These elements form the backbone of traditional Middle Eastern scents rich, warm, and opulent — and continue to dominate consumer preferences in the UAE today. Perfume is not just a luxury item here; it is an extension of one's identity, a daily ritual, and an embodiment of hospitality and pride. A fusion of east and west While tradition remains at the heart of the UAE's perfume culture, the modern market reflects a growing global influence. Perfume makers in the country are embracing fusion — blending Eastern depth with Western freshness and aesthetics. Contemporary floral, citrus, and fruity notes are increasingly being layered with traditional base ingredients, appealing to a broader and more diverse audience. This cultural confluence has helped transform the UAE from a regional leader into a global influencer. The perfume industry here isn't just preserving a legacy — it's reimagining it for the modern era. Among the standout trends shaping the UAE fragrance landscape is perfume layering — the art of combining multiple scents to craft a signature fragrance that is deeply personal. This practice allows wearers to tailor their scent based on their mood, occasion, or even time of day, creating a fluid and evolving olfactory experience. This trend speaks to the growing demand for individuality and self-expression. Perfume is increasingly seen as a wearable identity — a scent that tells your story before you say a word. Preference for natural and oil-based scents In a market increasingly conscious of quality and longevity, oil-based perfumes have made a strong comeback. Favoured for their intensity and extended wear, these alcohol-free formulations resonate deeply with cultural traditions and consumer expectations. Natural ingredients — particularly oud — continue to reign supreme. Highly valued for its smoky, resinous aroma and spiritual symbolism, oud remains a hallmark of high-end perfumery in the UAE. Extracted from the heartwood of agar trees, it is both rare and revered, reflecting the country's appreciation for exclusivity and craftsmanship. Fragrance as everyday elegance There has also been a cultural shift in the way perfumes are consumed. No longer reserved for special occasions, fragrances are now a part of daily grooming rituals for both men and women. There's a growing awareness of how scent enhances personality and confidence, making it an essential accessory in modern Emirati life. Perfume has evolved from being a luxury to becoming a form of personal empowerment — a silent signature that speaks volumes. As the UAE continues to invest in its creative economy, the perfume industry stands poised for even greater expansion. Local manufacturers are scaling operations, while international perfume houses — drawn by the country's rich cultural base and strategic location — are seeking partnerships and presence in the market. The country's ability to blend the authenticity of its past with the ambition of its future is precisely what sets its fragrance industry apart. Whether through ancient attars or modern layering techniques, the UAE is redefining perfumery not just as a product, but as an experience, an identity, and a cultural art form. In a world where scent is often tied to memory, mood, and meaning, the UAE is ensuring its fragrant legacy not only lingers but leads.
Forbes
21-05-2025
- Health
- Forbes
2 Ways To Discover And Nurture Your ‘Soul Landscape,' By A Psychologist
The Finns have a word: Sielunmaisema. In English, it roughly translates to 'soul landscape' and describes a physical place — a beach, forest, cabin or city street — that feels like home because it reflects something in your 'soul.' The concept captures a deep sense of connection you may have felt before — perhaps while visiting a place that felt like it was made just for you. But what if you could build that feeling into your everyday life? Here are two surefire ways to own your 'soul landscape' by using psychology to build a life you feel more at home in. Some people find their sielunmaisema in far off places. For instance, for someone who finds that kind of calm in Middle Eastern landscapes, a scent could potentially become a memory. In much of the Arab world, oud — a deeply resinous, smoky perfume oil derived from agarwood — is layered into the culture. It's burned in homes, worn on skin and floats in the air of social spaces. For someone who finds their soul landscape in this region, oud might become the scent of inner peace. Psychologically, this is significant. Scent has a uniquely direct line to the brain's emotional centers tied to memory and mood, according to research. That means a single whiff of oud back home, months after your trip, can evoke the same emotional quiet you may have experienced in your sielunmaisema. This is what soul landscaping can look like: you travel far, but you don't leave it all behind. You bottle the feeling. You make it portable. The same is true for music. Take Tame Impala, for instance. Kevin Parker recorded much of the act's breakout debut album, Innerspeaker, in a remote beach house on the Western Australian coast. The setting was wild and elemental — crashing waves, open skies and serene solitude. In interviews, Parker has said the view made even his most basic combination of notes sound profound to him because the landscape lent it emotional weight. The sound was shaped by the space. Innerspeaker went on to launch Tame Impala's global career. But the soul of that album — its crashing cymbals, warm reverb and its sense of expansive solitude and melancholy — still feels tethered to that beach house in the middle of nowhere, at least to Parker. This is how you bring a place back with you. Through scent. Through sound. Through any sensory imprint that anchored you to a feeling. Your soul landscape may be a thousand miles away, but the experience doesn't have to be. You just need the right keys to unlock it — and the right rituals to keep it close. Landscaping your soul is about articulating what's real to you. The most meaningful parts of your inner landscape might not be the loudest. They might be small joys: a comfortable bed, the pride in finishing a book or the calmness you experience after a meaningful conversation. And research shows that this matters. A 2018 study published in Emotion found that people who could identify and report a greater variety of positive emotions — like awe, contentment, curiosity or gratitude — had lower levels of inflammation in the body, even when controlling for age, health and general mood. Self-reflection can help build an emotional ecosystem that's rich, complex and alive, much like a soul landscape. The more fluent you become in your inner emotional language, the easier it becomes to cultivate those feelings intentionally — even when you're far from the landscapes that first inspired them. So, the next time something good happens — wherever it happens — pause. Ask yourself: What kind of good is this? The more clearly you can name it, the more likely you are to feel it again. And that's what makes a soul landscape worth coming home to. Wondering how close you already are to the concept of a soul landscape? Take the science-backed Connectedness To Nature Scale to learn more about your connection to the world around you.
