Oud from the Middle East — Culture, Trade, and Tradition

While the Middle East does not produce agarwood trees (Aquilaria species are native to South and Southeast Asia), it is arguably the world’s most important oud market and the cultural heartland of oud appreciation. In the Gulf states — Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman — oud is deeply woven into daily life. It is burned as bakhoor to scent homes and clothing, applied as oil for personal fragrance, and given as a prestigious gift. The consumption of oud in Saudi Arabia alone is estimated at hundreds of millions of dollars annually. Arabian oud culture has developed its own distinct preferences. Gulf consumers historically favour Indian and Cambodian oud for its depth and intensity. The practice of layering oud with other fragrances — combining oud oil with musk, rose, amber, and sandalwood — has created a rich perfumery tradition that influences global niche fragrance today. Major oud trading houses in the region, such as those based in Jeddah, Dubai, and Doha, serve as gatekeepers between Asian producers and Middle Eastern consumers. These traders have developed deep expertise in grading and evaluating raw agarwood, and their standards significantly influence global oud pricing. Understanding Middle Eastern oud culture is essential for anyone involved in the oud trade. The preferences, quality standards, and traditions of this market shape the entire global industry. Discussion: 💬 How does oud feature in your daily life or cultural traditions?