Page 54 - EM - Export Magazine Perfumery Edition

R E P O R T

Consumers in the UAE are strongly inclined towards French
beauty products which are known for their high quality and are
trusted in the beauty industry. The fragrance sector’s sales are
dominated by luxury products, but many fragrances without
a prestigious name are sold in superstores, gas stations, and
corner stores. The latter make their own blends from French
origin juices, among others. French para-pharmacy groups such
as Bioderma, Pierre Fabre, L’Oreal Cosmetique Active are very
present in the country’s pharmacies. The brand’s packaging
and storytelling are essential elements of a perfume’s success. Chanel to launch oud-based fragrances and these proving
Variations such as body spray: and hair fragrance are very popular across the region.
popular in the Middle East. Traditionally, perfume is unisex and Blending your own fragrance is also a strong tradition in Qatar
can be bought in a format of at least 100ml. and across the region, with many continuing to visit fragrance
specialists to create their own unique scent. This tradition
is diminishing in popularity, however, as consumers are
increasingly attracted by luxury packaged fragrances.
The sale of counterfeit fragrances are not significant in Qatar
and the government has strict import controls in place.

OMAN
Despite the very stringent trade laws militating against illegal
imports, Oman still suffers from a black market for basic beauty
Niche fragrances have suffered less slowdown in the sector and personal care products, emerging in labor camps throughout
and appeal to urban and young customers. Since 2018, the country, including illegal imports and counterfeits. This
independent houses offering personalised compositions have situation in Oman poses competition for all sectors, especially
been emerging, however, these sales remain small. Fragrance. Often smuggled in from Dubai, the availability of
counterfeit products is increasing with the improvement of road
QATAR links. In addition to this, there is little brand loyalty in Oman
Fragrances are traditionally popular in Qatar. Long before when we talk about fragrances, especially in the mass category
modern Western fragrances had a wide distribution reach with price playing an important role in purchasing decisions.
in this country, Qatar was home to many traditional Arabian
fragrance houses and boutiques, with these outlets blending
a range of different scents and selling their own bespoke or
premixed fragrances.

Qatari men and women alike generally view fragrances as Fragrances remain dominated by premium Arabian brands
essential and will also carefully select fragrances to suit such as Amouage, Oud Elite, Al Qurashi and Arabian Oud.
the occasion. Most of these consumers thus own five or six Local Omanis traditionally use these Oud-based fragrances
different fragrances, including scents for use during the day, regularly, though the younger consumers showed a growing
at night and for special occasions. Most Qatari consumers are preference for more modern products. In recent years, sales of
affluent and can easily afford to buy a range of fragrances. fragrances benefited from economic growth, urbanziation and
Oud again remains very popular with this consumer and has the growing number of mono-brand boutiques operated by
inspired international fragrance houses such as Tom Ford and leading brands. However, many forecasts report that it is likely

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