SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
A quintessential part of celebratory occasions, the scent of oud fills Eid gatherings, evoking traditions of hospitality, cherished family moments and shared joy.
Speaking to Aletihad, Emirati perfumers shared insights into the fragrances that shape Eid traditions across Emirati and Gulf homes.
Ali Alawadhi, an Emirati perfume consultant, said that the UAE is known for diverse incense during Eid. Among the most popular is high-quality oud wood, used to perfume the majlis when welcoming guests, as well as the traditional garments worn by Emiratis on Eid morning.
Scented oud and dukhoon are especially sought-after during the holiday, along with sprayers used to perfume linens and floors.
Alawadhi said that natural oud remains the most in-demand variety during the holiday period.
When asked which scents come to mind when he thinks of Eid, he said simply: "Definitely the scents of oud, amber, rose and saffron."
According to Alawadhi, preparing fragrances for Eid is a process of renewal built on familiar ingredients.
"Every year, we try to create a new fragrance blend related to Eid," he said, using oud, amber, saffron and rose, but with "different proportions and some modifications".
Eman Al Mansoori, another Emirati perfume expert, said that traditional perfuming remains a key part of Eid preparations in Gulf households.
She explained that during Eid, almost every Gulf home has oud and oud oil, along with a wide range of incense – Arabic, French and blended – as well as perfumes.
These scents, she said, are used to perfume living rooms, clothes, and guests themselves when receiving them, as they are closely associated with generosity, hospitality and joy, and remain an integral part of Eid culture in the Gulf.
As for the most in-demand choices during Eid, Al Mansoori noted that Indian oud wood is particularly popular as "its fragrance is strongly associated with Eid mornings and family gatherings".
She added that both French and Arabic incense are also widely used to perfume clothes and guest rooms, with perfumes and sprays also favoured during the Eid holiday.
Al Mansoori also emphasised that traditional perfuming methods are still very much alive, although they have adapted to modern lifestyles.
"In the past, incense burner, charcoal, and oud were the main elements. Today, the same traditional method exists, with the addition of body sprays and French perfumes."
As she put it, "the basics have not changed, but the technique has evolved to be faster and easier, while preserving the heritage."
When asked which scents are most strongly associated with Eid, Al Mansoori replied without a moment's pause: "The scent of oud and oud oil."