Saudi Arabia Perfume Market Booms: Luxury, Tradition, and Digital Channels Drive Growth

According to Renub Research Latest Report Saudi Arabia perfume market is experiencing remarkable growth, with analysts projecting it will reach US$ 3.57 billion by 2032 from US$ 2.12 billion in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 5.94% between 2025 and 2033. The sector is fueled by a combination of luxury preferences, traditional Arabic fragrances, and digital innovation. Consumers are increasingly seeking eco-friendly ingredients, unisex fragrances, and high-end products, making Saudi Arabia one of the Middle East’s most lucrative perfume markets.

Saudi Arabia’s Cultural Connection to Perfume

Perfume holds a deep cultural significance in Saudi Arabia, dating back centuries. The country’s residents have a long-standing affinity for oriental scents, oud, and other rich fragrances, often using them for daily wear, social gatherings, and religious ceremonies. Luxury and designer perfumes are especially popular, reflecting both personal taste and social status.

Saudi Arabia’s retail sector offers a wide range of fragrance options, from high-end boutiques to online marketplaces. Tourism, particularly the millions of pilgrims visiting Mecca and Medina, further supports perfume sales, as visitors purchase fragrances as souvenirs or gifts.

Economic factors also contribute to growth. In 2021, the population exceeded 35 million, with a large portion aged 20–40, the prime demographic for luxury perfumes. Urban centers account for nearly 30 million residents, concentrating demand for premium and niche products. With a GDP of USD 1.5 trillion, high per capita income ($47,700), and robust luxury spending, Saudi consumers are driving the market forward.

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Key Growth Drivers

Strong Preference for Luxury and High-End Fragrances

Luxury perfumes in Saudi Arabia are more than scents—they are status symbols. Consumers are drawn to exclusive, long-lasting fragrances, often opting for niche brands offering bespoke or culturally inspired aromas. The high demand for premium perfumes reflects a cultural penchant for refinement, exclusivity, and elegance.

For instance, Ghawali, a subsidiary of the Chalhoub Group, opened its flagship store at Nakheel Mall, Riyadh in January 2023. The store features modern designs infused with regional cultural elements, specializing in oriental and niche fragrances. Ghawali plans to launch new perfumes and Saudi-inspired scents, catering to the country’s evolving fragrance market.

Oriental and Arabic Fragrances Remain Staples

Traditional Arabic and oriental scents, including oud, rose, amber, and musk, remain dominant. These fragrances are valued not only for their aroma but also for their cultural and historical significance. They are popular for both everyday use and special occasions, symbolizing heritage, identity, and sophistication.

In May 2024, the “Perfumes of the East” exhibition opened in Riyadh, featuring over 200 artifacts from archaeology and modern art. Sponsored by Prince Badr bin Farhan, the exhibition showcased the long-standing Arab passion for fragrances, highlighting both historical and contemporary perfumery practices.

E-Commerce and Digital Marketing Fuel Growth

The rise of digital platforms and e-commerce has transformed Saudi Arabia’s perfume market. Consumers can now explore, compare, and purchase fragrances online, accessing products not available in physical stores. This enables brands to reach wider audiences, personalize marketing, and strengthen direct-to-consumer relationships.

According to the International Trade Administration, Saudi Arabia had 33.6 million internet users for e-commerce by the end of 2024—a 42% increase since 2019. Major platforms like Amazon Prime and emerging local players are accelerating online perfume sales, offering convenience and broader product selection to consumers.

Rising Demand for Eco-Friendly and Unisex Products

Modern consumers, especially the younger demographic, are increasingly health-conscious and environmentally aware. There is growing interest in eco-friendly ingredients, sustainable production methods, and unisex fragrances. This trend encourages perfume companies to innovate, offering products that cater to both genders and align with ethical consumption preferences.

Market Segments

Eau de Parfum (EDP)

EDPs dominate the Saudi market due to their higher concentration of fragrance oils, which ensures longevity—an essential feature in the region’s hot climate. Both international luxury brands and domestic companies provide combinations of Western and Arabic notes like oud, amber, and rose. EDPs are favored by young adults, professionals, and luxury consumers, often used as gifts for weddings, festivals, or personal indulgence.

Eau de Cologne

The Eau de Cologne segment is gaining popularity, particularly among younger buyers and those seeking light, budget-friendly fragrances. With 2–5% perfume oils, colognes are ideal for casual wear, warm climates, and layering with other scents. Mass-market colognes often feature citrus, aquatic, and floral notes, and are increasingly available through retail chains and online stores.

Luxury Perfumes

Saudi Arabia ranks among the most profitable markets for luxury fragrances in the Middle East. High-income consumers prefer exclusive ingredients, sophisticated packaging, and niche branding. Brands like Dior, Chanel, and Tom Ford, along with regional niche companies, perform well. Partnerships, such as the Chalhoub Group and Inter Parfums collaboration in November 2023, enhance retail and digital presence, meeting high consumer expectations.

Mass-Market Perfumes

Mass-market fragrances target middle-income groups and younger demographics, providing affordable yet culturally resonant scents. Supermarkets, neighborhood perfumeries, and online stores play a vital role in distribution. Seasonal promotions, festive discounts, and increasing awareness of personal hygiene are fueling adoption. For example, Ahmed Perfume, a UAE-based company, announced expansion across Saudi Arabia and GCC countries in March 2024.

Male Perfumes

Men’s fragrances in Saudi Arabia are deeply ingrained in culture. Men frequently wear perfumes multiple times a day, with preferences for oud, sandalwood, musk, and amber. Both Western designer colognes and traditional attar-based products cater to diverse tastes. Gifting culture, social status, and high disposable income contribute to market growth in this segment.

Female Perfumes

Women are embracing a combination of traditional Arabic oils and modern global scents, including floral, fruity, and gourmand fragrances. With higher labor force participation, women increasingly demand perfumes suitable for long-lasting, all-day wear. Social customs related to gift-giving, pampering, and fashion consciousness further drive female perfume consumption.

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Competitive Landscape

The Saudi perfume market is highly competitive, featuring a mix of local and international players. Key companies include:

Abdul Samad Al Qurashi

Ahmed Al Maghribi Perfumes

Ajmal Perfumes

Arabian Oud

Rasasi Perfume Industry LLC

Rashat

Swiss Arabian Perfumes Group

The Fragrance Kitchen (TFK)

These players constantly innovate through product development, retail expansions, and e-commerce strategies, ensuring a dynamic and diverse market environment.

Challenges Facing the Market

Intense Competition

Competition is fierce, with established brands holding significant consumer loyalty. New entrants must invest heavily in branding, marketing, and product innovation to gain a foothold. Distinctive scents, particularly oud-based and Arabic-style perfumes, are crucial for differentiation.

High Import Costs

Luxury perfumes are largely imported, making them expensive due to tariffs, shipping, and taxes. High costs may limit access for mid-income consumers and pose barriers for smaller companies. Although local production is growing, it remains small compared to imports, leaving consumers reliant on international luxury brands.

Future Outlook

The Saudi perfume market is poised for continued growth, driven by luxury demand, traditional Arabic scents, digital innovation, and evolving consumer preferences. E-commerce expansion and a young, urban demographic are expected to further fuel adoption. The blend of cultural heritage and modern innovation ensures Saudi Arabia remains a leading fragrance market in the Middle East.

As consumer preferences evolve, companies focusing on premium products, eco-friendly ingredients, and digital engagement are likely to gain a competitive edge. The Saudi perfume industry is set to thrive, offering opportunities for luxury brands, niche artisans, and mass-market players alike.

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