The Art of Perfumery in the Middle East: how the East inspires the West

The richness and sophistication of Middle Eastern scents have been a source of inspiration for Western perfumery for decades. As early as 1905, François Coty introduced Origan, a fragrance that showcased the allure of Oriental notes.

These fragrances—rich, warm, and deeply evocative—blur the line between reality and imagination, giving rise to some of the most iconic masterpieces in perfumery: Tabac Blond by Caron, Shalimar by Guerlain, and Opium by Yves Saint Laurent, to name a few.

While Western perfumery often leans towards fresh, floral, or fruity notes, Oriental fragrances stand apart with their intensity, warmth, and lasting presence. They tell vivid stories, evoking sunlit landscapes, spice markets, and opulent palaces filled with the aroma of incense. This almost mystical quality captivates those who seek fragrances with depth and individuality.

 

The revival of western perfumery

Oriental ingredients that captivate the world

In recent years, Middle Eastern-inspired scents have seen a remarkable resurgence in popularity. Ingredients like oud, incense, musk, Damask rose, amber, and sandalwood—known for their complexity and richness—have fascinated fragrance enthusiasts across the globe.

This renewed interest is largely driven by the rise of niche perfume houses, which aim to stand out in an increasingly crowded market. Brands such as Serge Lutens (Ambre Sultan, Chergui and Arabie) and Maison Francis Kurkdjian (Baccarat Rouge 540 and Oud Satin Mood) are celebrated for their creative use of these ingredients, blending tradition with modernity.

Middle Eastern perfume houses on the global stage

At the same time, perfume houses originating from the Middle East have gained global recognition, establishing themselves in Europe, the United States, and Asia. Brands like Amouage (Oman), Ajmal (United Arab Emirates), Nishane (Turkey), and Arabian Oud (Saudi Arabia) have become synonymous with luxury and craftsmanship.

Far from being a passing trend, their success reflects a deeper shift in the codes of modern luxury perfumery, where heritage and innovation coexist beautifully.

A meeting of two worlds

Collaborations between Western perfumers and Middle Eastern creators have become increasingly common, resulting in hybrid fragrances that merge influences and expertise. These partnerships produce bold, unique compositions that feel both contemporary and timeless.

This cross-cultural exchange has transformed perfume into a universal language—one that bridges cultures and celebrates shared sensory experiences.

The Roots of Middle Eastern Perfumery

A millennia-old tradition in Arab culture

For centuries, fragrance has held a central place in Arab-Muslim traditions and social rituals. In ancient Persia, men would offer perfumes to their wives as lifelong symbols of love.

Hospitality—an essential value in Arab culture—has also been expressed through fragrance; welcoming a guest with perfume remains a gesture of honor and respect to this day.

Through centuries of tradition and passion for scent, the Middle East has become the cradle of a rich and enduring olfactory heritage.

The Middle East: a treasure trove of fragrance

It’s important to distinguish the Western idea of “Oriental perfumes”—typically characterized by vanilla, amber, and spicy notes—from the much broader and more diverse world of Middle Eastern perfumery.

Arabia is home to the iconic scents of incense, ambergris, and myrrh. Bakhoor—burned wood chips or resins used to scent the air and clothes—plays a central role in the region’s fragrance rituals. Damask rose, orange blossom, jasmine, and saffron are also highly treasured.

Together, these elements form a vast and versatile olfactory palette, deeply rooted in tradition but open to modern innovation.

MAJOURI: French luxury with Middle Eastern roots

A house with a singular identity

MAJOURI is a French niche perfume house founded by Hadi Masmoum, whose Syrian heritage and deep connection to the Middle East shape the brand’s identity.

Through its creations, MAJOURI offers “Singular Encounters,” where the refinement of French perfumery meets the warmth and generosity of Middle Eastern traditions. 

Collaborating with renowned perfumers from Paris and Grasse, the house creates modern, sophisticated fragrances that feature floral, woody, and gourmand notes while staying true to its Oriental soul.

Inspired by Damascus and the Middle East

Damascus, a historic hub along the Silk and Spice Roads, has been a treasure trove of rare and precious materials for centuries: exotic woods, essential oils, balms, and resins. The legendary Damask rose—renowned for its unmatched fragrance—has been cultivated in the region since antiquity.

In Syria, perfume is far more than an accessory; it’s a cultural emblem tied to hospitality, romance, and spirituality. Once a closely guarded tradition, this art form is now being rediscovered, modernized, and celebrated on a global stage.

 

Bridging East and West

MAJOURI’s fragrances embody a delicate balance between French elegance and Syrian heritage.

This Oriental influence is evident in the use of spices like cardamom and saffron—integral to Syrian cuisine—and the flowers that adorn the courtyards of Damascene homes, such as jasmine, Damask rose, and orange blossom.

Musk and amber, traditionally used for festive and spiritual occasions, add richness to many of the house’s creations.

Finally, woods and resins like oud, cedar, sandalwood, myrrh, labdanum, and benzoin form the backbone of intense, long-lasting, and authentic compositions.

By moving away from fleeting trends, MAJOURI champions timeless perfumery, infused with originality and sincerity.

An identity-driven and characterful perfumery

Middle Eastern-inspired perfumes captivate because they allow wearers to assert their individuality. While some fragrances blend into the crowd, Oriental-inspired scents make a statement. They define an attitude, a presence, and a story. These are fragrances of character—bold, deep, sometimes unexpected, but always unforgettable.

Far from being a passing fad, Middle Eastern perfumery has become a lasting influence. Its olfactory richness, emotional depth, and ability to bridge cultures make it an endless source of inspiration for creators and enthusiasts alike.