Latest news with #AjmalPerfumes
Campaign ME
2 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Campaign ME
The subtle luxury shift taking shape in the UAE
Remember when we thought that luxury was all about the designer labels you wore, the car you flaunted and the places you dined at? Well, that is now a tale as old as time. But don't get me wrong – it's not entirely untrue. Much like every other podcast preaching 'looks are not everything' when it comes to relationships, the same goes for this exclusive realm of living. There is so much more to luxury than what meets the eye, especially in a city like Dubai. Recently, the UAE has been welcoming a largely affluent, young audience who come in search of luxury experiences like no other. While the more obvious answers come in the form of extravagant resorts, yacht cruises and so on, there are some that aren't so surface-level. According to 77 per cent of Gen Z and 72 per cent of millennials are on the lookout for authentic and personalised experiences. Lucky for them, the UAE has a rich heritage and culture that is front and centre, in a tangible and intangible way. The Al Maha Desert Resort keeps the aesthetics of the country's Bedouin history alive while combining it with luxurious amenities. 'Luxury is not something we have to reach for; it's at our fingertips here in the UAE.' The Emirati fragrance culture is also intertwined with modern luxury, holding Oud and Bukhoor at the heart of it all. Homegrown luxury perfume brands such as Ajmal Perfumes and Abdul Samad Al Quraishi not only focus on craftsmanship but also on traditional rituals such as Mukhalat, the art of scent layering. It's not just about the perfumes that smell good; it's also about feeling good. Self-care is the greatest investment of them all and another great testament for how luxury is not just about what's on the outside. Both residents and tourists alike can splurge on wellness treatments and cosmetic procedures, with a strong trend towards treatments that are pricier yet personalised and high-tech. For example, Beit Sisu consists of private suites with built-in cold plunges, infrared saunas and red-light therapy towers. The Zoya Health retreat is a luxury stay with personalised detox programmes focused on holistic wellness methods, including Ayurveda. Let's get a little corny now: it is a luxury for so many diverse nationalities to be able to co-exist together here in the UAE. It is impossible to live in a bubble while you're here in the country, as you can access different cultures and celebrations with ease. For years now, events like Sikka Art Festival and Sole DXB have successfully brought people together to bond over art, music and food. Moreover, the Emirati community truly considers hospitality as a sacred value and has quite literally opened their doors to bring people together through small businesses of their own, such as Poteto and Juntas. Luxury is not something we have to reach for; it's at our fingertips here in the UAE. Running out of gas? Cafu comes to your car, wherever you may be. A valet service at almost every other restaurant or leisure experience, food or groceries being delivered in 15 minutes, kids being able to go to and from school in private buses – convenience has been established at every nook and corner for our own peace of mind. Intimacy in a platonic sense, where you feel seen and appreciated, is another virtue that makes an experience even more luxurious. For example, walking into Moonrise and being able to connect with the chef on a one-on-one basis somehow makes the dinner experience feel more exclusive. Clutching your pearls is not really a thing here, and that is a luxury we don't give enough credit to. As of 2025, the UAE has been ranked the second-safest country in the world according to Numbeo's Safety Index. In terms of cities, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are consistently recognised as the happiest cities in the Arab region, according to the World Happiness Report. Feel rich yet? I hope so. True luxury is found in the preservation of heritage amid futuristic skylines, in the warmth of Emirati hospitality that bridges countless cultures, in a scent that tells a story or a sense of security that is irrevocably priceless. So, the next time you think of luxury, know that it's evolving beyond the obvious. By Catherine Bannister, Chief Strategy Officer, and Aneeta Aby, Senior Strategist, TBWA\Raad.
Vogue Arabia
4 days ago
- Business
- Vogue Arabia
How Oudh Found Its Way Back Into My Life
And then, without warning, the scent of my childhood was everywhere. Somewhere between social media and artisanal perfumers, oudh became aspirational. When Tom Ford launched Oud Wood in 2007, a shift began. A scent long tied to Middle Eastern and South Asian traditions entered the Western luxury lexicon, setting off a ripple effect. The oudh extracts market alone is projected to reach $2.66 billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate of 8.9 per cent. The same fragrance profile I once distanced myself from is now bottled into $400 (₹35,000) perfumes, a marker of sophistication. Roberto Cavalli's Divine Oud. Oud Satin Mood by Maison Francis Kurkdjian. Oud Ispahan by Dior. Repackaged, rebranded and reclaimed—except not by me, not yet. According to Abdulla Ajmal, CEO of Ajmal Perfumes, international fragrance houses have been reinterpreting oudh for over a decade, sometimes using real oudh but more often creating an 'oudh accord' with saffron, rose, leather and vanilla. This makes the scent more accessible but also dilutes its meaning. Traditionally, oudh symbolises spirituality, wealth and heritage. The resinous heartwood of the Aquilaria tree, found in abundance in Assam, has been used for centuries in religious ceremonies, meditation and old-school perfumery. Yet, its reinvention isn't necessarily a loss—it has introduced new audiences to its depth, ones who may eventually seek the real thing. I am one of them, moving from hesitant traces to something bolder, learning to embrace what I once kept at arm's length. When my sister and I smelled the Fenty perfume for the first time, a rich woody-rose tickled my nose and we exchanged a knowing look. 'This smells so Dubai,' we both thought. But this time, I didn't shrink away from it. Oudh burrows into my memory, unlocking the past in an instant, what psychologists call the Proustian effect. Marcel Proust discovered it in a madeleine; for me, it lingers in this fragrance, carrying the warmth of summer evenings and the echo of my grandmother's laughter. It's the scent of childhood, of history, of a self I spent years trying to distance myself from, only to realise that I never wanted to let go. Perhaps that's why I finally stopped avoiding it. Nostalgia isn't just about longing for the past; it's about deciding what's worth holding on to. I choose the scent of home. Article originally published on Vogue India
Khaleej Times
6 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Bottling heritage and innovation: MAKKAJ Perfumes' journey in luxury fragrance
In the world of fine perfumery, MAKKAJ Perfumes is crafting a compelling new chapter —one that seamlessly intertwines deep-rooted heritage with bold modernity. At the heart of this journey is Mohammed Fakhruddin Ajmal, the visionary Founder Director of MAKKAJ Perfumes. Carrying forward a legacy steeped in the sacred essence of Makkah and inspired by the pioneering spirit of his late father, Haji Ajmal Ali, founder of the iconic Ajmal Perfumes, Mohammed Fakhruddin is on a mission to script yet another olfactory fairytale. With the dynamic launch and swift expansion of MAKKAJ Perfumes, it's clear that this new narrative is not only unfolding but flourishing with purpose and passion. A journey of scent and soul Fakhruddin Ajmal believes that one's journey becomes lighter and more fulfilling when not burdened by the past — but rather inspired by it. With over six decades of experience in the fragrance industry, a highly competent team, and access to cutting-edge technology, he is confidently navigating the evolving world of luxury perfumery. What sets MAKKAJ apart is its deep-rooted identity: Fragrance from Holy Makkah. It's not just a tagline — it's a spiritual promise. Over the past 12 months, MAKKAJ Perfumes has added ten new retail locations, a testament to the brand's growing appeal and customer trust. The brand's unique positioning resonates strongly with a diverse audience across the Middle East. Craftsmanship meets consumer-centric innovation In a competitive market where brands constantly try to outshine each other, Fakhruddin Ajmal emphasises staying true to the fundamentals: listening to consumers, maintaining product affordability, and ensuring top-tier quality and safety. These principles, passed down from his father, remain the core of his business ethos — practiced with the same devotion as faith. MAKKAJ's state-of-the-art manufacturing facility spans 70,000 square feet in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. The ISO 22716:2007-GMP certified plant features in-house distillation of rare and premium-grade agarwood oil. Their exquisite product range includes concentrated perfume oils, luxury spray perfumes, ambiance fragrances (both modern sprays and traditional Mamool/Moattars), and pure handcrafted agarwood chips — all crafted with authenticity and care. Experience the aroma of tradition and excellence
Mid East Info
21-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Ajmal Perfumes Introduces Aurum Elixir: The new gold nectar – where indulgence meets instinct
The latest chapter in the Aurum legacy interprets amber gourmand through a lens of contemporary elegance and timeless individuality Dubai, United Arab Emirates, May 21st ,2025 , Ajmal Perfumes, A brand long synonymous with the mastery of perfumery, announces the launch of Aurum Elixir , a unisex amber gourmand fragrance that reimagines opulence for the modern world. The latest in the iconic Aurum family, Elixir embodies Ajmal's evolving perfume philosophy – bridging instinctive sensuality with bold sophistication. Inspired by golden nectar, Aurum Elixir is designed for the contemporary individual who seeks a scent that is layered, indulgent, and elegant. It captures the essence of golden warmth, delivering a perfume experience that is as bold, as it is intimate. The story behind Aurum Elixir is rooted in Ajmal's vision to explore new facets of identity through fragrance. For Abdulla Ajmal, CEO of Ajmal Group, this launch represents a continuation of the brand's pursuit of the evolution of individuality. He quoted 'For a fragrance enthusiast, what scent they wear is a statement of their own identity. With Aurum Elixir, we wanted to deliver a fragrance that invites the wearer to express their unique dualities without boundaries,' . A celebration of contrast; softness and strength, indulgence and restraint. Crafted for the fragrance connoisseurs, Aurum Elixir opens with a sparkling trio of bergamot, blackcurrant, and strawberry, setting the stage with a burst of vibrant energy. At the heart, a blooming jasmine note is softened by molten caramel and anchored by the textural warmth of cashmere wood. The dry down is deep and enveloping, revealing earthy patchouli and creamy vanilla – leaving a lasting impression that is both sensual and serene. Its formulation captures the richness of amber, the irresistible comfort of gourmand notes, and a floral heart that adds radiant complexity. Presented in a luxurious 75ml bottle with 30% dosage making it strong, long-lasting and opulent, Aurum Elixir reflects Ajmal's dedication to quality craftsmanship while speaking to contemporary sensibilities. This modern interpretation of amber gourmand is deliberately created without gender boundaries, welcoming anyone drawn to bold softness and elegant intensity. Abdulla Ajmal, CEO of Ajmal group added 'With Aurum Elixir , we wanted to craft something that feels intentional which resonates on a more personal level. Aurum Elixir was about trusting the creative process and letting the fragrance evolve from a place of instinct. Every element, from the choice of ingredients to the final composition, was shaped by a desire to create something lasting and timeless and we believe we have achieved just that with the Aurum Elixir.' Aurum Elixir is now available across the GCC in Ajmal Perfumes boutiques, select online platforms, and authorized retailers: AED 210 in the UAE SAR 230 in Saudi Arabia QR 215 in Qatar OMR 22 in Oman BHD 23 in Bahrain KD 17.750 in Kuwait With Aurum Elixir , Ajmal continues its journey of olfactory storytelling, inviting wearers to explore their own essence through the world of perfume. About Ajmal Perfumes: Inspired by the glorious Orient, Ajmal began its perfumery journey with the world's oldest form of fragrances: perfume oils. Over the last 74 years, Ajmal has created a unique niche in the world of perfumery in the Middle East, as producers, manufacturers, retailers and distributors. Ajmal Perfumes offer a plethora of fine western and oriental fragrances and is renowned for its expertise in bringing the most exquisite Oud and Oud-related products. Ajmal's retail presence spans 350+ exclusive showrooms within the GCC and the world.
Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Ajmal Perfumes introduces Aurum Elixir: The new gold nectar – where indulgence meets instinct
Ajmal Perfumes, a brand long synonymous with the mastery of perfumery, has announced the launch of Aurum Elixir, a unisex amber gourmand fragrance that reimagines opulence for the modern world. The latest in the iconic Aurum family, Elixir embodies Ajmal's evolving perfume philosophy - bridging instinctive sensuality with bold sophistication. Inspired by golden nectar, Aurum Elixir is designed for the contemporary individual who seeks a scent that is layered, indulgent, and elegant. It captures the essence of golden warmth, delivering a perfume experience that is as bold, as it is intimate. The story behind Aurum Elixir is rooted in Ajmal's vision to explore new facets of identity through fragrance. For Abdulla Ajmal, CEO of Ajmal Group, this launch represents a continuation of the brand's pursuit of the evolution of individuality. He said: "For a fragrance enthusiast, what scent they wear is a statement of their own identity. With Aurum Elixir, we wanted to deliver a fragrance that invites the wearer to express their unique dualities without boundaries." Crafted for the fragrance connoisseurs, Aurum Elixir opens with a sparkling trio of bergamot, blackcurrant, and strawberry, setting the stage with a burst of vibrant energy. At the heart, a blooming jasmine note is softened by molten caramel and anchored by the textural warmth of cashmere wood. The dry down is deep and enveloping, revealing earthy patchouli and creamy vanilla, leaving a lasting impression that is both sensual and serene. Its formulation captures the richness of amber, the irresistible comfort of gourmand notes, and a floral heart that adds radiant complexity. Presented in a luxurious 75ml bottle with 30% dosage making it strong, long-lasting and opulent, Aurum Elixir reflects Ajmal's dedication to quality craftsmanship while speaking to contemporary sensibilities. This modern interpretation of amber gourmand is deliberately created without gender boundaries, welcoming anyone drawn to bold softness and elegant intensity. Ajmal added: "With Aurum Elixir, we wanted to craft something that feels intentional which resonates on a more personal level. Aurum Elixir was about trusting the creative process and letting the fragrance evolve from a place of instinct. Every element, from the choice of ingredients to the final composition, was shaped by a desire to create something lasting and timeless and we believe we have achieved just that with the Aurum Elixir." Aurum Elixir is now available across the GCC at Ajmal Perfumes boutiques, select online platforms, and authorised retailers, priced at Dh210 in the UAE, SAR 230 in Saudi Arabia, QR 215 in Qatar, OMR 22 in Oman, BHD 23 in Bahrain, and KD 17.750 in Kuwait.
