Oud: the king of Arabic perfumery

Oud is undoubtedly the most precious jewel of Arabic perfumery. This ancient ingredient, known as "liquid gold," is an emblem of power, luxury, spirituality, and tradition. Its intense aroma, which can be woody, smoky, and often animalic , has captivated entire civilizations in the Middle East, and today it is one of the most sought-after commodities globally.

In this article, we analyze its origin, its cultural significance, its application in perfumery, the reasons why it is so highly valued, and what makes it the true king of Arabian aromas. Furthermore, we will examine how it is used, who uses it, and why it is an ingredient that continues to gain popularity in both the East and the West.

I- What is the oud?

Oud, also called agarwood, is an aromatic resin that forms on Aquilaria trees when they are naturally infected by a fungus. As a defense mechanism, the tree produces this dark and extremely fragrant resin.

Not all trees produce it, and not always in the same quality. This explains its rarity and its value.

Main characteristics of the oud:

• Woody, smoky, sweet and deep aroma
• High fixation and projection
• It is used in perfumes, oils, incense, and bakhoor
• It can cost thousands of euros per kilo in its pure form
• It is considered a spiritual and medicinal ingredient in many cultures

Natural oud is one of the most expensive ingredients on the planet, surpassing even gold in some varieties.

II- An ingredient with thousands of years of history

The oud is mentioned in ancient texts from India, Persia, China, and Arabia . In the Middle East, its use is linked to religious ceremonies, weddings, family celebrations, and everyday rituals.

In Arabia, the oud is:

• A symbol of hospitality
• An essential part of daily hygiene
• A prestigious gift among families
• A scent associated with purity, spirituality, and good taste

In the Arabian Peninsula, burning oud is almost a cultural language; it expresses respect when receiving a guest, marks the beginning of a celebration, and is part of both male and female beauty rituals.

III- What does oud really smell like?

Oud is a complex fragrance unlike any other perfume note. It is neither simple nor linear; it develops with the warmth of the skin and creates an enveloping trail.

Possible descriptors of the oud:

• With hints of wood and balsamic
• Dark, warm, and deep
• With a slight animal and smoky touch.
• Sweet and resinous in softer forms
• Luxurious, enigmatic, and seductive

It's a scent that isn't "easy," but it's addictive. It's rare for someone who's fallen in love with oud to go back to lighter perfumes; it becomes a personal signature brimming with personality.

IV- Why is the oud considered “the king”?

1 - Rarity and bravery

Not all trees produce resin, and it takes decades to obtain high-quality natural oud.

2 - Aroma intensity

A few drops can remain on the skin for more than 10 hours, and on clothing for several days.

3 - Cultural connotation

The oud represents elegance, tradition, and identity in the Middle East.

4 - Adaptability in perfumery

It is possible to combine it with:

• Pink
• Fossil resin
• Vanilla
• Spices
• Musk
• Animal Notes

5 - Longevity

Perfumes containing oud not only last a long time, but also develop over time.

Oud is seen as the most prestigious component of Arabic perfumery for these reasons.

V- Different types of oud

Quality and style vary depending on origin:

oud of Indian origin

• Animalistic, intense
• Enigmatic and very profound

Oud from Cambodia

• Soft, sweet, spherical
• Perfect for oriental and warm-type perfumes

Burmese Oud

• Woody and resinified

Arabic Oud (blends and oils)

• More contemporary
• Focused on elegance and visibility

Not all perfumes that include "oud" in their name contain pure oud; many of them use combinations or imitations to make it softer and more accessible.

VI- The role of oud in modern perfumery

In the West, oud became a trend just over a decade ago. European perfumers fell in love with the opulent and mystical character of the Arabian oud and began combining it with flowers, vanilla, leather, and spices.

Today, it's common to find unisex perfumes where oud takes center stage. It's a symbol of luxury and extravagance, even in niche brands.

VII- How to use perfumes with oud

The oud is not appropriate for every moment; its power requires you to know when and how to use it.

A - When to use oud

• Nights
• Refined events
• References
• Freezing climates
• Traditional festivities

B - Where to implement it

• Points where you can take your pulse: behind the ears, wrists and neck.
• In clothing (if the perfume allows)
• In the beard or in the hair with oils

C - How many applications are there

• Oils / pure oud: 1-2 drops
• Intense perfumes: 2 to 4 sprays
• Modern mixtures: 4 to 6 sprays

The purpose of oud is to envelop, not overwhelm, so its use should be balanced.

VIII- Classical oud combinations

The oud is incredibly versatile. Some of the traditional Arabic combinations are:

Rose + Oud

Elegant, intense, and romantic. One of the most beloved blends in the Emirates and Saudi Arabia.

Amber + Oud

Warm, sweet and with a deep oriental influence.

Vanilla + Oud

Modern, tempting and gourmand.

Spices + Oud

Dramatic and exotic.

Musk + Oud

Smooth, balanced and long-lasting.

These combinations are not only traditional, they also constitute a part of the olfactory identity of the Arab world.

IX- Oud in oils vs oud in spray

Oud oil (attar)

• Very focused
• Pure Arab tradition
• It is more durable
• It stays close to the skin.
• Less alcohol, more depth.

Perfumes with oud in spray format

• More projected
• Contemporary combinations
• Preferable for everyday use
• Less difficult for those who are just starting out

Many oud enthusiasts blend the two, first adding a drop of attar and then a modern perfume on top. This layering method creates a unique and personal fragrance.

X- Why is the oud so prevalent in the Arab world?

1 - Culture

For centuries the oud has been part of family ceremonies and rituals.

2 - Hospitality

Burning oud is a sign of respect and affection towards guests.

3 - Beauty

Oud is used in body oils, hair products, and perfumes.

4 - Identity

Deep aromas symbolize nobility, strength, and spirituality.

5 - Climate

In warm regions, the deep notes last longer and project better

XI- Conclusion

Oud is not only an ingredient, it is also a cultural symbol, a benchmark of Arab luxury and an unparalleled olfactory experience.

Its history, its complexity in olfactory terms and its daily presence in the Middle East give it the status of true royalty in perfumery.

Oud continues to captivate the world with its power, mystery, and elegance , from ancient oils to contemporary perfumes. And at our orientfragance shop, for those who wish to discover the astonishing depth of this exceptional aroma for themselves, we offer a meticulously curated selection.