Arabian perfumes, oils & home fragrance

Choosing a perfume oil starts with the kind of fragrance you enjoy. Use this guide to narrow the choices, compare product information and ask the right questions before ordering.

What does attar mean?

Attar is commonly used to describe perfume oils. The exact formula varies by product, so check its label and description rather than assuming every attar has the same ingredients or is alcohol-free. A concentrated oil and an eau de parfum spray are different formats, even when they share a fragrance name.

Start with scents you already enjoy

Think about whether you prefer woody, floral, spicy, fresh or sweeter fragrances. Read the notes listed on the individual product page. A name such as oud or musk is a starting point, not a complete description of how the finished blend will smell. If the notes are not listed, ask us rather than relying on the name alone.

Choose a bottle size

Many Maha Musk London oils have 3ml, 6ml and 12ml options. Check the options on the actual listing, as sizes vary. A smaller bottle can be a useful first purchase when trying an unfamiliar fragrance; a larger size may suit a scent you already know. Stock availability is shown on the product page.

Check the format and presentation

Look for the brand, product format, bottle size and packaging. White Oud oil is a different product from Surrati White Oud eau de parfum. If two similar listings have different presentations, check the product details or contact us before choosing.

Use the oil as directed

Follow the product label and applicator instructions. Only apply products intended for use on skin, and use the amount recommended by the maker. Do not assume that a skin perfume oil is suitable for an incense burner or diffuser. Check the label before applying any fragrance to clothing.

Ask for a recommendation

Tell us a fragrance you already enjoy, the style you want and whether it is for everyday wear or a gift. We can help you compare the available listings without promising that a scent will perform identically on everyone.

Explore attar and perfume oils · Compare eau de parfum sprays · Ask for fragrance advice

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Bakhoor is used to fragrance a space by heating incense material. Products differ in form and preparation, so start with the instructions on the pack and a burner designed for that product.

Choose the right form

Check whether the listing contains bakhoor pieces, chips, a prepared incense blend or incense sticks. They are not all used in the same way. Traditional bakhoor generally needs a separate heat source, while some incense sticks are designed to be lit directly. Follow the particular product’s directions.

Match the incense to a suitable burner

Some burners are designed for charcoal; others heat incense electrically. Check the burner’s instructions and the incense label before combining them. Use only the amount and accessories recommended by the maker. Do not put loose perfume oil into a burner unless both products are specifically intended for that use.

Prepare the space

Place the burner on a stable, heat-resistant surface where it cannot be knocked over. Keep it away from curtains, clothing and other materials that could catch fire, and out of reach of children and pets. Use it in a well-ventilated space and avoid breathing the smoke directly.

Heat or light it according to the instructions

For an electric burner, follow the maker’s temperature and operating guidance. For a charcoal burner, use the specified charcoal and appropriate handling tools, and follow the manufacturer’s lighting instructions. Never handle hot charcoal or a hot burner with bare hands. Do not add more incense simply to create more smoke.

Stay nearby and finish safely

Never leave burning incense unattended or use it while asleep. Switch off electrical equipment or fully extinguish burning material as instructed before leaving the room. Allow the burner and contents to cool completely before cleaning or disposal. Treat ash as hot until it has fully cooled.

Prefer a spray?

A room fragrance spray offers another way to scent a space. Read the label for suitable surfaces and directions; a room spray is not a skin perfume, and not every spray is suitable for fabrics.

Browse bakhoor and room essentials · Explore bakhoor burners · Shop room fragrance sprays · Ask us about a product

For general incense fire safety, see the London Fire Brigade’s advice.

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