Like many other traditions and practices in Qatar, an individual’s fragrance or ensuring households are aromatic is also rooted in Islamic values. The importance is such that it is almost considered an act of charity as good perfume benefits others by its pleasant smell.
The culture of Qatar is heavily dependent on aromatic substances such as bukhoor or bakhoor for households and open spaces. For those who don’t know, these are wood chips that are made fragrant by being soaked in perfumed oils and other natural ingredients. The incense is then lit upon charcoal on a pot typically known as “mabkhara” which exudes the fragrance in the form of smoke. The emphasis on places of worship being clean and fragrant makes the consumption and usage of bukhoor in the month of Ramadan even more important.
For personal fragrance, prior to the adoption of western fragrances; the nationals were known for the oil-based perfumes; namely “Attar”. These are oil-based oriental fragrances that primarily had the agarwood scent also known as “oud”, typically with musky fragrance notes. While these weighty aromas still rule the perfume market, preferences have evolved over the years to fusion fragrances that many western brands adapt or even oriental brands that infuse western fragrances creating perfumes such as “Rose Musk”.
Being in Qatar, growing a fondness for these distinct fragrances is inevitable. The ILoveQatar.net team (ILQ) is here to help you find the fragrance of your choice with a list of places (in alphabetical order) to suit your budget.
Ajmal Perfumes
Image Credit: Ajmal Perfumes
Ajmal Perfumes is a brand that takes pride in being one of the pioneer perfumeries specializing in oriental fragrances. You will find their stores all across Doha selling a versatile collection of bukhoors and attars with varying price ranges making it accessible to all.
Details
Tel: +974 4441 2324Locations: Multiple locations in QatarInstagram: @ajmalperfumesqatar
Al Haramain Perfumes
Image Credit: Al Haramain Perfumes
A brand that has evolved from being an agarwood trader in Mecca to now being one of the reputed perfumeries throughout the Asian continent; the Gulf countries and other Asian countries alike.
They create arrays of collections with Arabic and French fragrances with the most artisan bottles that make them precious keepsakes or gifts to give.
Details
Tel: +974 4436 6800 (Main Showroom – Al Nasr)Locations: Multiple locations in QatarInstagram: @alharamainperfumesqatar
Al Jazeera Perfumes
Image Credit: Al Jazeera Perfumes
A store that lures you into the world of oriental fragrances with a whiff of bukhoor while treating your eyes to sculpted bottles gleamingly displayed.
Being a premium brand of choice from the year 1998, Al Jazeera Perfumes is renowned for its sophisticated packaging and distinct fragrances. A great spot to pick up valuable gift packs for loved ones as well.
Details
Tel: +974 4411 5187 (City Center)Locations: Multiple locations in QatarInstagram: @aljazeeraperfumes_qtr
Arabian Oud
Image Credit: Arabian Oud
One of the largest oriental fragrances distributors that boast elaborate designs that radiate luxury or simplistic traditional vials (also known as “Tola”); Arabian Oud brings you the best of both when it comes to scents and packaging. They also offer an array of premium incense.
Details
Tel: +974 7719 5777 (Al Sharq Hotel & Spa), +974 4413 1027 (Royal Plaza)Locations: Royal Plaza, Al Sharq Hotel & SpaInstagram: @arabianoudqatar
Asgharali
Image Credit: Asgharali
From humble beginnings to echoing success; Ashgharali is one of the most popular brands in Qatar. If you’re looking for lavish bottles with astounding fragrances or simple oriental scents; this is the place for you.
Details
Tel: +974 4411 5981 (City Center Doha)Locations: Multiple locations in QatarInstagram: @asgharalico
Malik Al Bukhoor Trading
Image Credit: Malik Al Bukhoor Trading
A brand that provides a range of bukhoors to choose from, along with body scents and household sprays that are easy to use and budget-friendly as well.
Details
Tel: +974 5011 9898Locations: Al Jasra Street, Souq WaqifInstagram: @malikalbukhoortrading
Osmanli Oud
Image Credit: Osmanli Oud
Magnificent oriental designs and oud-based scents from Osmanli Oud are bound to leave you in awe. You would not want to miss the elegantly packaged luxury bukhoor range as well. An added perk is the free delivery they have on offer.
Details
Tel: +974 5019 6010Locations: Landmark Mall & Palms MallInstagram: @osmanlioud.qatar
Rasasi
Image Credit: Rasasi
The beauty of oriental perfumeries lies in the years of legacy they carry forward and just like many others Rasasi is a brand that is an ode to 43 years of specialization. Their fragrance bottles are elegant. They also sell classic bukhoors and household fragrances.
Details
Tel: +974 4483 2223 (Mirqab Mall) | +974 4002 0552 (City Center)Locations: Mirqab Mall, City CenterInstagram: @rasasiqatar
Souq Waqif
Image Credit: Shutterstock
Not sure if you have a taste for oriental fragrances or incense? Give it a try at the many perfumeries located in the alleys of Souq Waqif. Try and choose from the many options they have. A small vial can be bought for as less as QR 10.
Details
Location: Souq WaqifInstagram: @souqwaqif
Swiss Arabian Perfumes
Image Credit: Swiss Arabian Perfumes
As the name suggests, a brand that pledged to produce the most exquisite fragrances with an amalgamation of notes over an impressive duration of 40 years. They specialize in perfumes, perfume oils, incense, and other home fragrances.
Details
Tel: +974 4477 0735 – Lulu Hypermarket (D-ring) | +974 5562 7309 – Mall Of Qatar | +974 4450 3147 – Safari MallLocations: Mall Of Qatar, Safari Mall, Lulu Hypermarket (D-ring)Instagram: @swissarabianperfumes
Are you a fan of oriental fragrances? Did you know of any of these places? Do let us know in the comments below. Do share this article – it keeps us going!
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