Loading ...When Fragrance Speaks Arabic in the Heart of the U.S.
By: Yara Marei / Arab America Contributing Writer
I still clearly remember standing at a big international conference in Berlin. I felt confident and strong, and I had something special with me, my scent. As an Arab woman in formal spaces, I’ve always felt that presence isn’t just about how you talk. It’s also about how you show your identity. That day, I wore Reef 12, a perfume my mother gave me from Saudi Arabia.
To my surprise, a group of quiet young women came up to me. One of them asked shyly, “Can we ask you a personal question?” I smiled and said yes, thinking they would ask about careers or public speaking. But instead, they asked, “What perfume are you wearing?”
That moment showed me how powerful scent can be. It can leave a deep memory and tell a story without using words. Arab perfumes full of oud, musk, and rose do just that. They charm people. They stay with you. And they say, “You’re Arab,” in a graceful way.
Now, let’s explore some of the Arab perfumes you can find in the U.S. Whether it’s the famous Abdul Samad Al Qurashi, the classic Arabian Oud, the modern style of Reef Perfumes, or the unique blends of Ibrahim Al Qurashi, these are more than just scents. They are stories. They are bold messages. And they are unforgettable.
The Rise of Arab Perfumes in the U.S. Market
The world of Arab perfumery is steeped in tradition, luxury, and identity, where ingredients like oud, amber, and musk blend to create scents that are both timeless and culturally rich. These fragrances are not just olfactory delights; they’re a form of storytelling, passed down through generations.
In recent years, a surge of interest in niche and oriental fragrances has brought many iconic Arab perfume houses into the spotlight in the United States. From exclusive boutiques to online platforms, American consumers can now explore the richness of Arab perfumery firsthand.
Here are seven standout Arab perfume brands now available in the U.S., including brand heritage, retail access, and top-selling items for both men and women.
A Guide to Luxury Oriental Fragrance Brands
1. Abdul Samad Al Qurashi (عبد الصمد القرشي)
Abdul Samad Al Qurashi, founded over 150 years ago in Makkah, is revered as The House of Oud, Amber, and Perfumes, known for its luxurious fragrances, premium raw ingredients, and artisanal craftsmanship. The brand goes beyond perfumes, offering a wide range of body care and cosmetic products all infused with the richness of oud, amber, and musk. Their signature Jadayel Hair Oil is especially beloved across the Arab world for strengthening hair and leaving a long-lasting scent.
Now available in the U.S. through their official website and select retailers like Arabia Scents, Dunya Al Oud in New Jersey, and Rare Scents, customers can explore their top picks: for women, Black Rose for Her, a sophisticated blend of Taif rose, amber, and musk ($120–$150); and for men, Safari Extreme, a bold fusion of oud, citrus, and musky florals, perfect for evening wear ($130–$160).
2. Reef Perfumes (ريف للعطور)
Reef is a contemporary Saudi fragrance brand that blends Eastern richness with Western flair, offering vibrant, youth-oriented collections that change with the seasons. Known for its bold branding and accessible luxury, Reef has quickly gained popularity among younger audiences seeking modern scents rooted in Arab heritage. Interestingly, some of Reef’s fragrances are identified by numbers rather than names, such as the beloved Reef No. 12, a unique blend of oud, amber, rose, and sugar that delivers a warm yet sweet signature scent. While the official U.S. website is still in development, Reef perfumes are already available through regional distributors like Avanti Perfumes and select fragrance shops in New York City, Houston, and Los Angeles. Among their top picks are Summer Tiffany for women, a light and fruity floral perfect for warm weather ($50–$70), and Velvet Oud for men, a leathery, woody scent with a soft, sweet finish ($60–$80).
3. Ibrahim Al Qurashi (إبراهيم القرشي)
Ibrahim Al Qurashi blends the rich heritage of Saudi perfumery with a modern, refined approach, specializing in luxurious, oil-based perfumes known for their longevity and elegance. The brand masterfully combines traditional Middle Eastern scent profiles with Western sophistication, making it a favorite for those seeking depth and balance in their fragrances. In the U.S., Ibrahim Al Qurashi is available at their store located at 8413 S Harlem Ave, Bridgeview, IL 60455, and through their official U.S. website. They are also active on Instagram and Facebook, where they share seasonal launches and curated scent stories. Top recommendations include Musk Al Oud (For Her), a delicate blend of white musk, oud, and florals ($100–$130), and Amber Incense Musk Al Oud for men, which layers deep amber and smoky notes with a warm, spicy twist ($115–$140).
3. Arabian Oud العربية للعود
It stands as one of the world’s most prestigious and established fragrance houses, with a legacy rooted deeply in the traditions of Middle Eastern perfumery. Founded in Saudi Arabia, the brand is renowned for its masterful use of oud, blending it with rich elements like florals, spices, amber, and musk to create bold, luxurious scents that resonate globally. Arabian Oud has successfully expanded its presence internationally, including a strong footprint in the United States with official stores in New York City, Houston, and Chicago, where customers can enjoy both in-store and online shopping. The brand also presents growth opportunities in the U.S. luxury fragrance market, appealing to both Arab diasporas and new customers drawn to premium, oil-based, long-lasting scents.
Top picks include Tarteel Silver for women, a fresh, floral, and subtly powdery fragrance that’s both elegant and enduring (estimated $95–$115) and Ramz Gold Edition for men, a bold blend of oud, vanilla, and leather that exudes warmth and masculinity (estimated $110–$130).
5. Swiss Arabian
Founded in 1974 and based in the UAE, Swiss Arabian has built a strong legacy by blending the rich traditions of Middle Eastern perfumery with modern sensibilities. The brand is known for offering high-quality fragrances at accessible prices, making it a favorite among both fragrance connoisseurs and everyday wearers. Swiss Arabian’s diverse range appeals to a global audience, with standout scents that fuse depth, elegance, and character. In the U.S., their perfumes are widely available online through platforms like Amazon, FragranceX, and Walmart.com, and can also be found in select stores in Dearborn, Houston, Los Angeles, and New York City.
Popular choices include Casablanca for women: a deliciously gourmand mix of caramel, apple, and soft suede ($45–$60), and Shaghaf Oud Aswad for men, a powerful blend of oud, incense, and dark woods ($60–$85), perfect for those who appreciate intensity and depth in their fragrance.
6. Lattafa Perfumes (لطافة للعطور)
Lattafa Perfumes, a Dubai-based fragrance house, has built a loyal global following by offering budget-friendly yet impressively high-quality scents. Known for its rich oud blends and popular designer-inspired creations, Lattafa has become a go-to brand for those seeking luxury-level experiences at affordable prices. In the U.S., Lattafa fragrances are widely available through major online retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and fragrance e-shops, and are commonly found in mall kiosks and Arab-owned stores across major cities. Among their standout offerings is Yara for women, a creamy vanilla fragrance accented with fruity and floral notes ($25–$40) and Khamrah for men, a warm, spicy blend of cinnamon, apple, and tonka, often compared to Kilian’s “Angels’ Share” ($35–$55).
7. Al Haramain Perfumes
Al Haramain Perfumes, established in 1970 in the UAE, has earned a distinguished place in the fragrance world for its luxurious presentation and deeply rooted inspirations drawn from Islamic culture and heritage. The brand is celebrated for crafting long-lasting, oil-rich blends that balance tradition with contemporary appeal. With a global fan base, Al Haramain offers an immersive olfactory experience through its opulent bottles and complex compositions. In the U.S., their perfumes are available online via Amazon, FragranceX, and various niche perfume retailers. You can also find them in specialty shops across Dearborn, New Jersey, California, and Texas. Notable favorites include Amber Oud Rouge for women; a rich, saffron-led fragrance often likened to Baccarat Rouge 540 ($60–$90)—and Amber Oud Gold Edition for men, a vibrant blend of green notes, fruit, oud, and vanilla ($65–$95), ideal for those who enjoy a fresh yet indulgent scent profile.
Why Arab Perfumes Matter
Arab perfumery is more than fragrance; it’s a form of cultural expression. From spiritual rituals using oud to celebratory scents at weddings, these perfumes carry heritage, memory, and luxury in every drop. As they find new audiences across the U.S., they continue to redefine luxury and identity through scent.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning your fragrance journey, these brands offer a gateway into the soulful world of Arab perfumery.
Signature Scents and Writer’s Recommendation
When it comes to personal fragrance, my selections are both intentional and expressive. I’ve chosen Balase Rose by Ibrahim Al-Qurashi and Madawi Gold by Arabian Oud as standout additions to my collection or wishlist. I continue to cherish REEF 12, a timeless scent I simply can’t get enough of. Lastly, Yara by Lattafa remains a staple, its light and refreshing notes making it ideal for everyday use, early mornings.
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