Step inside the world of rare oud with Aziz Al-Shalhoob (Abu Saud)—an expert and auctioneer whose insights are shaping both Middle Eastern and U.S. oud markets. Discover what makes oud so prized, how to spot authentic grades, and the latest trends including the rise of Chinese oud. Whether you’re a collector in the USA or just beginning your oud journey, get expert tips on buying, applying, and enjoying this legendary fragrance. Read the full guide and shop our exclusive USA oud collection at Attar Perfume.

Welcome to an aromatic journey! In a special episode of "Hadith Al-Sari," we sit down with oud expert Aziz Al-Shalhoob, known as Abu Saud, to unravel the mysteries of this treasured fragrance. From its origins to its different grades, he shares invaluable insights to help you become a connoisseur.   The Art of Burning Oud   Before diving into the types of oud, Abu Saud shares a crucial tip for proper use. The secret lies in the charcoal. Match the oud to the charcoal: For thicker pieces of oud, you need strong, hot charcoal to release the full fragrance. Conversely, for thinner, more delicate chips, a fading, less intense charcoal is best. This prevents the oud from burning too quickly and producing a harsh, smoky smell. Timing is everything: When using high-quality oud, always place it on charcoal that has already reached its peak heat.   Unveiling the Origins of Oud   Oud goes by many names across the Arab world, from "bukhoor" in the Gulf to "hatab" in Oman. But where does this beloved fragrance come from? Ancient sources: Historically, the most famous oud came from countries like Vietnam, India, Cambodia, and Burma. These regions were the original sources of natural, wild oud. Modern cultivation: Due to heavy demand, these ancient sources have become scarce and are now considered rare. Today, most oud comes from cultivated farms, where growers use specific techniques to encourage resin production. This has led to an increase in both enhanced and industrial oud varieties.   Navigating the Market: Types of Oud   When you go to a market, you'll encounter a variety of oud, each with its own characteristics and uses. Oud for events: Large, thick pieces of oud are perfect for special occasions and large gatherings. A single piece can last for multiple rounds, ensuring a long-lasting, powerful fragrance that fills the space. Oud for personal use: For personal use or smaller gatherings, delicate chips are sufficient. These pieces provide a subtle, elegant scent that is perfect for close friends or a relaxing evening. Dakkah (Oud chips): These small chips, or leftovers from cleaning larger oud pieces, are a treasure trove of fragrance. They are just as potent as larger pieces and are a great option for personal use.   A Connoisseur's Guide to Identification   How can you tell the difference between good and bad oud? Abu Saud shares some key visual cues. Look for color and density: High-quality oud is characterized by its dark, almost black appearance, indicating a high concentration of resin. The darker the color, the richer the scent. The wood itself should be dense and heavy. The "underwater" test: Truly rare and high-quality oud, often called "underwater oud," is so dense with resin that it sinks when placed in water. This incredible density means it's packed with fragrance. Be wary of weight: Some unscrupulous sellers fill oud chips with lead or other heavy materials to increase their weight. If a piece of oud feels unusually heavy for its size, be cautious.   The World of Rare Oud   What makes an oud "rare"? According to Abu Saud, rare oud is a unique category that transcends the typical market. The "hoarders": Rare oud is often discovered in old stashes that people have collected over decades. These individuals, often elderly men from the Gulf, would acquire and store high-quality oud without using it, treating it as a precious commodity. These collections often become "rare" after the original owner's passing, when their families discover the treasure. Global demand: The market for rare oud is not limited to the Middle East. Countries like China, Japan, Korea, and Italy have a strong demand for these unique and exclusive pieces.   The Journey of Oud Oil   Beyond the wood, oud is also a prized oil. Abu Saud explains the process of creating this luxurious fragrance. Extraction: The small, unusable pieces of oud left over from cleaning the larger chips are used to create oud oil. These pieces are first fermented and then distilled. Aging: A key factor in the quality of oud oil is its age. Freshly distilled oud oil has a sharp, intense scent. To create a smoother, more refined fragrance, the oil is aged. The oil is often placed in a shallow dish with a muslin cloth cover and left in a dark, cool room. Over time, the moisture evaporates, leaving behind a thicker, more potent, and more refined oil.   A Final Tip: The Right Way to Scent Yourself   To get the most out of your oud, Abu Saud offers a final piece of advice on application. Moisturize first: Begin by spraying a light mist of perfume or rose water on your clothes. This "moisture barrier" helps the fragrance of the oud cling to the fabric, ensuring it lasts all day. Apply oud oil to pulse points: Place a small amount of oud oil on your wrists and behind your ears. The warmth of your skin will help the fragrance radiate. Combine for a richer scent: Many enthusiasts combine their favorite oud oil with musk to create a more complex and personalized fragrance. Abu Saud's knowledge and passion for oud are a testament to his expertise. We thank him for his time and invaluable insights, and we hope this guide has been enlightening for both novices and seasoned enthusiasts alike.

For over three centuries, the Attar family name has been synonymous with the pinnacle of natural perfumery—a legacy that spans continents, generations, and traditions. Today, Attar Perfume is quietly recognized as one of America’s oldest and most exclusive artisan perfume houses, crafting rare, small-batch fragrances for collectors and connoisseurs across the USA. From the Old World to the New Our story began in the early 1700s, when our forefather, Sayed Mohammed al-Attar, established the House of the Perfumist in Istanbul. A visionary scholar, he pioneered techniques in botanical distillation and blending, setting a new gold standard for purity and luxury. The “Attar” name—meaning perfumist in Arabic—quickly became a hallmark of integrity, artistry, and innovation, sought after by sultans, poets, and royalty throughout the Ottoman era. Across Oceans, Through Generations The Attar journey to America was not just a move—it was an expansion of spirit. In the early 20th century, our family crossed the Atlantic, bringing centuries-old secrets and manuscripts to the shores of the United States. From the vibrant ports of New York and Boston to Chicago’s storied streets, and westward to California’s golden coast, the Attar tradition flourished anew. Our atelier soon became a hidden gem among American artists, collectors, and fragrance lovers—an insider’s secret for those seeking the finest oud perfume USA or genuine artisan perfume America. The Modern Era: Quiet Excellence, Coast to Coast Today, Attar Perfume is led by 6th-generation master distillers, guardians of recipes and rituals untouched by time. We remain fiercely independent—never mass-producing, never compromising on quality, and never seeking the spotlight. Every bottle is a piece of living history, certified by hand and accompanied by our family’s seal of authenticity. Our creations—whether oud oil USA, rose, musk, sandalwood, or ambergris—are crafted in minute quantities using only the world’s most exquisite botanicals, sourced directly from legendary regions. Each formula is distilled, blended, and bottled by hand, using artisan techniques refined over centuries. A Tradition of Mystery, Purity, and Passion What sets Attar Perfume apart isn’t just rarity or luxury, but a devotion to the art of scent itself. Our oils and perfumes are made for true collectors, connoisseurs, and those who seek the rarest essence—whether you’re in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, or San Francisco. To experience Attar Perfume is to join a tradition that honors both ancient wisdom and modern sophistication—a story written across generations, now reimagined for America. We invite you to discover the artistry, the secrets, and the legacy that define our house. Welcome to Attar Perfume—a timeless journey, now available across the USA. Ready to explore our collection? Shop now and experience the best of oud perfume, artisan attar, and natural fragrance in America.

In the competitive world of luxury fragrances, where countless brands promise quality, Attar Perfume has carved a niche for itself as a beacon of authenticity and trust. Its founder, the well-respected lecturer and connoisseur Ali Al-Durei'a, has a journey from an avid hobbyist to a successful entrepreneur that is as captivating as the scents he curates. In this exclusive blog post, we'll dive into a frank and fascinating discussion with Al-Durei'a, exploring his philosophy, the secrets of the trade, and the true meaning of luxury in the world of oud.

Welcome to The Attar Edit—your inside passport to the world of authentic fragrance. Here, we share artisan secrets, celebrate pure oils, and take you behind the scenes of Attar Perfume’s living legacy. Discover the trends shaping modern scent culture, learn how we craft our signature blends from rare botanicals, and see how sustainability and tradition walk hand in hand. Each edition is a story—about the ritual of fragrance, the art of natural ingredients, and the voices of our passionate community. Whether you’re a collector, a curious explorer, or just beginning your attar journey, The Attar Edit brings you closer to the heart of true perfumery. Join us, and let every post inspire a deeper connection to the art, history, and beauty of scent.

Discover Attar Perfume—heritage oud oil USA, natural attar, and exclusive oud gift sets. Shop online for pure, halal perfume oils crafted for royalty and connoisseurs.

Discover the story behind Attar Perfume—where timeless tradition meets modern luxury. Explore our passion for rare oud, natural ingredients, and artisanal craftsmanship. Experience fragrance as pure art, rooted in heritage and crafted for you.

Discover pure oud oil in the USA—authentic, luxury oils direct from our Mesopotamian heritage. Shop AttarPerfume for the best oud oil online and wholesale.