Latest news with #Damask
Observer
4 days ago
- Business
- Observer
How the Oman Perfume Show Is the Ultimate Industry Incubator
This year's Oman Perfume Show once again drew a large crowd, especially young entrepreneurs eager to turn their passion for scents into a thriving business. Since its inception, the Oman Perfume Show has been more than just a marketplace—it's become a launchpad for young Omanis and emerging perfume brands trying to make a mark in a competitive industry. The event provides an ideal space for fresh talent to showcase their creativity and visions, ensuring the future of Oman's fragrant tradition remains vibrant and evolving. One of the standout young brands this year is OVA Perfume. Their owner and team are passionate about their heritage, drawing inspiration from Oman's rich ingredients and blending them with modern ideas to create fragrances suited not just for local tastes but for global markets. Their stall caught the eye with its monochrome design of many shades of grey—simple but sophisticated, reflecting the brand's focus on purity and balance. As visitors stopped by, they eagerly discussed each ingredient and the process behind every scent, from the raw materials to the finished product. The team was busy, engaging with passersby, explaining how their perfumes are crafted, and sharing their vision of putting Omani perfume on the international map. OVA Perfume isn't alone. Behind the scenes, dozens of new perfume houses have sprung up across Oman, spurred by the lucrative possibilities of the fragrance industry. With many young Omanis pursuing their dreams and seeing the potential in perfumery, the scene is buzzing with innovation and enthusiasm. These brands are eager to bring a piece of Oman's natural beauty—like frankincense, rose, and oud—into bottles that appeal worldwide. The energy among these startups mirrors a broader growth trend: Oman's perfume industry is now recognised as an important part of the national economy and cultural identity. The growth of the perfume market in Oman reflects larger regional trends. Globally, the fragrance industry is booming—with Mordor Intelligence estimating the GCC market to be worth over $3 billion in 2024. The Middle East, in particular, has a long-standing tradition of scent craftsmanship. Countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman have become key players, thanks in part to their access to unique ingredients and a culture that prizes scent as a reflection of hospitality and identity. Oman's own ingredients are especially prized. The country's frankincense from Dhofar, Damask roses, and luban (liquorice) are highly valued in the world of perfumery. These ingredients have been used in perfumes for centuries and are now increasingly sought after by brands aiming to incorporate authentic, locally-sourced components. The unique biodiversity of Oman makes it an ideal place for perfumers looking to source raw materials that are truly exceptional. Industry experts forecast that this emphasis on local ingredients will only intensify, attracting more brands and investment. This year's Oman Perfume Show reinforced that notion—showcasing the best of what Oman has to offer. The show isn't just about selling scents; it's a celebration of craftsmanship, ingredients, and the stories behind each fragrance. As one walks through the exhibition hall, it's clear that Oman is carving out a niche where tradition meets modernity. New brands like Immortal Oud from Thailand and regional players such as Asateer Oud and Dkhoon Emirates have joined the mix, bringing diversity and fresh perspectives to the event. A key part of the show's success lies in the seminars and workshops designed for aspiring perfumers and industry enthusiasts. Over five days, visitors have the chance to learn about scent blending, ingredient sourcing, and the latest technology in perfume production. These sessions are packed with tips and tricks, perfect for those who dream of starting their own brands or improving their craft. Attendees can discover innovative ways to create long-lasting fragrances, explore sustainable practices, and get insights into branding and marketing. The event truly offers a 360-degree experience—blending business, tradition, and innovation. The importance of these educational sessions can't be overstated. With the perfume industry becoming more competitive and globalised, staying updated on technological trends and market shifts is essential. For example, advances in sustainable sourcing and eco-friendly packaging are gaining popularity, and many young perfumers are eager to adopt these new practices to set themselves apart. As the show approaches its final day on June 2, the atmosphere is lively. Visitors are enjoying not only the scents but also the accompanying activities—live music performances, food stalls, and open conversations with perfumers. For many, this is more than a shopping trip; it's an immersive experience that celebrates culture and creativity. The event even includes a calligraphy corner where visitors can personalise perfume bottles—making for perfect Eid gifts or souvenirs. With more than 100 exhibitors from across the GCC and Asia, this year's event has clearly cemented Oman's place as a rising fragrance hub. As it wraps up, the show leaves behind a sense of excitement and possibility. Oman is embracing its fragrant roots and heading into a future where its scents reach markets around the world, telling stories of land, tradition, and creativity. Whether you're a perfume enthusiast, a budding perfumer, or simply curious about Oman's aromatic heritage, the show offers a snapshot of a thriving industry on the cusp of even greater achievements. And with the momentum it has gained, Oman's floral, spicy, and woody scents are set to become more popular worldwide—all thanks to the passion of young Omanis and their shared love for the art of perfumery.
Buzz Feed
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
Gwyneth Paltrow Recalls Vagina Candle Release, Shocked
Back in 2020, Gwyneth Paltrow memorably sold a candle called 'This Smells Like My Vagina' for $75 via her website Goop. The scent — which was a blend of "geranium, citrusy bergamot, and cedar absolutes juxtaposed with Damask rose and ambrette seed" — was described as 'funny, gorgeous, sexy, and beautifully unexpected.' Fast forward to today, Gwyneth has defended the candle once more, claiming again that she seemingly had no clue that it would actually get made once she joked about the vagina-esque scent. During an appearance at the 2025 Mindvalley Manifesting Summit this weekend, Gwyneth recalled, 'That product is so fascinating because we were messing around with different scents one day. And I smelled something and I was like, 'Oh, that smells like … you know.' 'I was joking. And then [Douglas] was like, 'Oh we should make that a candle and put it on the site,'' she said, referring to Douglas Little, who works on all Goop fragrances. 'All of a sudden, it was literally on the website. And then we broke the Internet again. And then it took us a long time to live that one down,' she said. Reacting to Gwyneth's comments, several internet users couldn't help but question her story. ''I just make jokes and then my team goes rogue without thinking of potential PR issues, and I have no say in what is produced, labelled or goes on the website for my own brand.' Sure, Jan,' one Reddit user said. What do you think? Let us know in the comments.
Ya Biladi
08-05-2025
- Business
- Ya Biladi
Morocco's Damask rose production set to surge : A boost for sustainable development
The projected production of the Damask rose (Rosa damascena) is estimated at over 4,800 tons for the 2024-2025 agricultural season, compared to 3,500 tons in 2023-2024, according to the Regional Office for Agricultural Development (ORMVA) of Ouarzazate. The area cultivated with this flower in the province of Tinghir has reached 1,020 hectares, with exports of about 60 tons, specified Abdellah Abdellaoui, head of the agricultural production service at the ORMVA of Ouarzazate, during a scientific symposium held on Wednesday on the sidelines of the 60th edition of the International Rose Festival in Morocco (from May 5 to 8) in Kelâat M'Gouna. The rose industry has benefited, within the framework of the Green Morocco Plan, from two distinctive signs of origin and quality, including the protected designation of origin «Rose of Kelâa M'gouna-Dadès» and «Rose Water of Kelâat M'Gouna-Dadès», concentrated mainly in the communes of Ait Sedrate Sahl Gharbia (31%), Khémis Dadès (29%), Ait Sedrate Sahl Charkia (19%), Kelâat M'Gouna (11%), and Ait Ouassif (10%), detailed Abdellah Abdellaoui. While calling for the promotion of scientific research to advance this sector, the official highlighted certain constraints that still hinder the development of this industry, particularly concerning the adoption of underdeveloped techniques in processing this flower and illegal competition. Organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development, and Water and Forests, in partnership with the province of Tinghir and national and international partners, the International Rose Festival is themed this year as «Rose Industry: A Lever for Sustainable Development within the Framework of the Green Generation Strategy».
Time of India
07-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Damask roses are boosting farmers' incomes in Kumaon hills
Almora: In the hills of Kumaon, farmers are turning to rose cultivation—particularly the prized Damask variety—not only as a lucrative addition to their traditional crops, but also as an unexpected shield against crop-raiding wildlife, especially monkeys. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now What began as a small experiment has now spread across the districts of Almora, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh, with more than 500 farmers embracing the bloom. In Almora's Takula region alone, nearly 300 farmers now grow Rosa damascena , a variety known for its intense fragrance and medicinal properties. The plant thrives in the region's cool climate, and its petals are processed into high-demand products such as perfumes, essential oils, and rose water. Encouraged by Takula's success, the Centre for Aromatic Plants (CAP) recently introduced rose farming to Garur block in Bageshwar. In the block's Amoli village, 50 farmers now cultivate roses across two hectares, signaling the crop's growing demand in the region. Among the new wave of growers is Manoj Giri, who was employed as a hotel employee in Delhi and returned to his native Gananath village in Takula. Today, he earns around Rs 70,000 annually from the sale of dried rose petals and rose water, and is preparing to produce rose oil—a product that sells for several lakhs per kg. In Bhakuna village, Meena Bisht has carved out her own success story. While her husband teaches at a local school, she runs the rose farm, earning nearly Rs 1 lakh in a year from her diversified product range: dried petals, herbal teas, perfumes, and incense sticks. Her products reach buyers as far as Mumbai, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, and Chandigarh. Now, she plans to lease more land from neighbours to scale up production. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now " Rose cultivation requires low investment and minimal water, yet offers high returns," said Vijay Bimola, CAP's district in-charge. The organisation not only provides technical support but also helps farmers connect with buyers. At a recent Damask Rose Festival hosted at CAP's Satellite Center in Takula, both farmers and tourists turned up in large numbers. In Kumaon's highlands, roses are doing more than just blooming—they're rewriting the script for rural prosperity.
Gulf Today
24-04-2025
- Gulf Today
Saudi 'city of roses' offers fragrant reminder of desert's beauty
After decades spent pruning thorny bushes and working arduous harvests, Khalaf Allah Al Talhi has perfected the art of capturing the fragrant aroma of the desert rose in a bottle. "I love roses and take care of them more than I care for my own children," the 80-year-old told AFP from his flower farm in western Saudi Arabia's Taif. Known as "the city of roses," the hills of Taif produce around 300 million of the area's signature pink roses annually at 800 flower farms. By his own estimates, Talhi grows around five to six million of those. The arrival of spring's mild climate is met with the blooming of roses that carpet the vast, rolling desert landscapes with vibrant shades of pink. The blooms are then hand-picked from daybreak to late in the evening by an army of labourers. Saudi farmer Khalaf Allah Altalhi takes care of his Damascenas (Damask) roses plantation in Taif. AFP The petals are soaked and boiled for hours in vats, where the rose's scent is extracted through an intricate process capturing the steam that is then distilled into aromatic oil. The flowers have long been used to make rose water to wash the walls of the Holy Kaaba at the Grand Mosque in the Holy City of Makkah, and perfumes made from Taif roses are popular with pilgrims visiting the kingdom. 'MANY ROSE LOVERS' "The quantity of Taif roses is small, so only limited amounts are exported because it's not enough to meet local demand. Here in Saudi Arabia, we have many rose lovers who only prefer rose perfume," Talhi said. A modest quantity of oil is exported to craft perfumes or to be added to cosmetic products such as moisturisers and soaps. A foreign worker pours roses into a container used to produce rose water and oil, at a farm in Taif. AFP According to the economic database TrendEconomy, Saudi Arabia in 2023 exported just $141 million worth of perfume products, which includes rosewater. At harvest time, workers on Talhi's farm pick tens of thousands of flowers daily. "We were born on farms and have always worked in agriculture," said Talhi, wearing a white robe and a red checkered headscarf. But now the greater frequency of erratic weather — including searing summer heat, frigid winters and unexpected flooding — presents a potent threat to Taif's famed roses. 'MY SOUL' Climate scientists have issued regular warnings that every fraction of a degree of global warming increases the intensity and frequency of extreme weather events such as heatwaves, heavy rainfall and droughts. Saudi Arabia, with its arid climate and vast deserts, is particularly vulnerable. "Climate change accelerates soil degradation in processes such as salinisation, erosion, and desertification, which diminishes the quality and productivity of arable land in Saudi Arabia," read a report published by the Atlantic Council. The think tank estimated that wheat yields were expected to decline by 20 to 30 percent by 2050 in Saudi Arabia because of heat stress and not enough irrigation water, while reductions are also expected for date palms and other staple crops. The weather in the deserts around Taif has been no exception, according to Talhi. "Last year and the year before, it was extremely cold. Some farmers didn't harvest a single flower from their fields." Thankfully, this season has been more forgiving. "There are weather changes, but this year the conditions have been very mild," he said. While the weather may now be less reliable, Talhi himself has proven to be a source of stability. Despite his advancing years, the octogenarian rises every day before sunrise to work the fields alongside his staff, and he often labours away until late into the night. "This farm is my soul and beating heart," he told AFP. "God willing, nothing will separate me from it, except death." Agence France-Presse
