Oud oil, also known as agarwood oil, is one of the most treasured and luxurious natural fragrances in the world. It is extracted from the heartwood of Aquilaria trees, which produce a dark, aromatic resin when infected with a particular type of mold. This unique process results in the formation of oud—a substance revered for centuries across cultures, especially in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Oud’s deep, complex scent has long been associated with elegance, spirituality, and tradition, making it a central ingredient in perfumes, traditional medicine, and ceremonial practices.
There are several types of oud oil, each varying in terms of quality, scent profile, and price point. Pure oud oil sourced from wild Aquilaria trees is considered the most valuable and authentic. It has a rich, smoky, and woody aroma and is often used in luxury perfumes and traditional applications. Due to its rarity, it is extremely expensive and typically reserved for collectors and high-end markets. In contrast, cultivated oud oil comes from farm-grown trees where infection is artificially induced. While it retains the woody characteristics of oud, it is milder in fragrance and more affordable, making it ideal for mid-range perfumes and everyday use. This variety is also more sustainable and accessible.
Blended oud oil is another common form in the market. It involves mixing oud with carrier oils such as sandalwood or jojoba. These blends tend to be lighter in scent and more economical, catering to mass-market perfumes and beginner users. Although not pure, they often deliver a pleasing aroma that mimics traditional oud at a lower cost. Aged oud oil, on the other hand, is highly prized for its refined scent that develops over several years. Whether sourced from wild or cultivated origins, aging deepens the fragrance, making it smoother and more layered. This type of oud is typically used in niche perfumes and for special occasions. Additionally, oud is also available in solid form as resin or chips, which are traditionally burned as incense. These forms hold cultural significance and are often used in religious or communal gatherings.
The versatility of oud extends beyond oils to a wide range of products. Oud wood chips are commonly used as incense; when burned, they release a strong and captivating aroma. Oud oil, known as “Dihn al Oudh” in Arabic, is extracted through steam distillation and used either directly on the skin or as a perfume base. Bakhoor, a popular item in Middle Eastern households, consists of agarwood chips soaked in fragrant oils and blended with natural ingredients like sandalwood and resins. When burned, bakhoor produces a rich, aromatic smoke that perfumes homes and garments. Oud perfumes incorporate oud oil as a key note, often blended with florals, spices, or musks to create complex, long-lasting fragrances.
The quality of oud depends on various factors, including the region of origin. Oud from Cambodia, India, and Vietnam each has its own unique aromatic characteristics. The age of the tree is also significant; older Aquilaria trees produce more resin and offer a deeper scent. The method of infection, whether natural or artificial, further influences the oil’s quality. Naturally infected trees generally yield a higher-quality resin. Ethical sourcing and sustainable harvesting practices are becoming increasingly important, as these ensure not only the preservation of Aquilaria forests but also the consistency of quality in the long term.
In the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, oud occupies a unique cultural and economic position. It is an integral part of daily life, often used to scent clothes, homes, and even public spaces. During social and religious events, oud plays a vital role, symbolizing hospitality and refinement. The fragrance market in the GCC is thriving, with oud-based products at the heart of this growth. As of 2024, the market size reached USD 3.0 billion and is projected to grow to USD 4.8 billion by 2033, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 5.09 percent. This growth is driven by strong consumer preferences for traditional Arabic scents and an emerging interest in modern interpretations that combine oriental and Western elements.
Popular types of oud in the region include Cambodian oud, known for its sweet, creamy, and slightly fruity aroma, and Indian oud, which is more intense with leathery and animalic notes. Thai oud offers a softer, woody profile and is favored in countries like the UAE and Qatar. Malaysian oud presents an earthy and slightly smoky scent, while Borneo oud is celebrated among collectors for its spicy, resinous freshness. Each of these types caters to different preferences and applications, from personal fragrance to ceremonial use.
The market also offers a wide variety of oud-based product lines. Pure oud oil, or Dehn Al Oud, remains a popular choice for luxury gifting and personal use. Leading brands such as Ajmal, Abdul Samad Al Qurashi, and Arabian Oud dominate this segment. Oud perfumes, often unisex and blending oud with florals or spices, are widely produced by brands like Rasasi, Swiss Arabian, Nabeel, and Asgharali. Oud bakhoor is a household staple across the GCC, used in traditional gatherings to create an inviting atmosphere. Moreover, grooming products like oud-infused soaps and lotions are gaining popularity, particularly in high-end hotels and spas in the UAE and Qatar. Oud sprays, used for air and fabric freshening, provide a convenient way to enjoy the luxurious scent in daily life and are commonly available in supermarkets and fragrance shops.
In conclusion, oud continues to be a symbol of elegance, heritage, and sensory richness across the GCC and beyond. As consumer awareness grows, there is a rising demand for authentic, high-quality, and sustainably sourced oud products. From its spiritual origins to its place in modern luxury markets, oud remains a timeless treasure that bridges tradition and innovation in the world of fragrance.
