What Is Oud and Why Is It Expensive?
Your Complete Guide to the Liquid Gold of Arabic Perfumery in the UAE
The Allure of Oud in the Emirates
Step into any Emirati majlis or luxury perfume boutique and you’ll notice a scent that instantly commands attention—rich, smoky, and mysteriously sweet. This is oud, often called liquid gold for a reason. More than just a fragrance ingredient, oud represents centuries of tradition and prestige across the Middle East, and nowhere is it more celebrated than in the UAE.
Oud 101 – Understanding the Essence
Oud, or agarwood, forms when the Aquilaria tree is naturally infected by a specific mold. Over time, the tree produces a dark, aromatic resin to protect itself. That resin is what we call oud.
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Cultural roots: Oud has been cherished in Arab households for centuries, burned as bakhoor during gatherings and used as perfume oil for special occasions.
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Natural vs. synthetic: While natural oud oil is rare and costly, modern perfumers also create high-quality synthetic oud to meet growing demand.
Why Oud Is So Valuable
Why is a single bottle of pure oud oil sometimes worth more than gold?
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Scarcity of Aquilaria trees: Only a small percentage develop the resin naturally.
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Long maturation: It can take decades for the wood to produce enough fragrant resin.
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Traditional extraction: Harvesting and distilling oud oil requires skilled craftsmanship.
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Prestige: In the UAE, oud is more than fragrance—it’s a status symbol and a gift of respect.
Types of Oud You’ll Find in the UAE
Arabic perfumery embraces many forms of oud:
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Pure oud oil (dehn al oud): Highly concentrated and worn as a drop on the skin or clothing.
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Oud-based attars and blends: Often mixed with floral or amber notes for a softer scent.
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Modern western fusions: Luxury houses combine oud with citrus or musk to create contemporary signatures.
How to Choose the Right Oud Perfume
Shopping for oud perfumes in the UAE can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to pick the perfect match:
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Test in the climate: Heat can amplify oud’s intensity—always try it outdoors or in natural warmth.
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Check concentration: Oils last longer and project strongly, while sprays offer a lighter sillage.
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Layer wisely: Pair oud with other Arabic perfumes such as rose or musk for a balanced, sophisticated scent.
Shopping Guide: Finding Authentic Oud in the UAE
The popularity of oud has attracted imitations. To ensure authenticity:
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Look for reputable sellers: Choose established UAE perfume boutiques or trusted e-commerce platforms.
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Check the notes: Real oud develops in layers—smoky, sweet, and woody—not flat or overly sharp.
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Request certifications: High-end vendors often provide origin details for premium oud oils.
Caring for Your Oud Perfume
UAE summers are hot, and improper storage can dull even the finest fragrance:
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Keep bottles in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.
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Avoid frequent exposure to air; tightly seal after each use.
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For pure oud oil, use a glass applicator to preserve the integrity of the scent.
Oud as a Cultural Treasure
In Emirati culture, gifting oud perfumes during weddings, Eid celebrations, or family gatherings is an act of honor. Its enduring presence in local rituals makes oud far more than a fragrance—it’s a living symbol of heritage.
Your Next Step
Explore our curated collection of authentic Arabic perfumes and discover oud fragrances that capture the essence of the UAE. Whether you’re buying a personal signature scent or a luxury gift, oud remains the ultimate expression of elegance
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