Ramadan Boosts Sales of Oud and Perfumes in Riyadh

Oud and oriental perfume stores in Riyadh are experiencing a significant increase in shoppers during Ramadan, fueled by the deep connection between these luxury scents and Saudi social traditions. These products are essential for welcoming guests at family gatherings and for scenting mosques, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of the month.

 The market offers a wide range of natural agarwood and oud oils, primarily sourced from Southeast Asian countries like India, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Prices vary significantly based on quality and the age of the trees, with rare natural oud reaching hundreds of thousands of riyals per kilogram, while enhanced versions range from SAR100 to SAR6,000 per ounce.

 As Eid Al-Fitr approaches, the demand for composite perfumes—blending oud with amber, musk, and Taif rose—continues to rise, as these scents are popular choices for traditional gifts. This thriving trade underscores the cultural and economic importance of oud, which remains a cornerstone of Arab hospitality and heritage across generations.