UAE perfume industry: From oud roots to global heights of luxury

Khaleej Times

2 days ago

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.