Swiss Arabian
Founded 1974
Despite the name, this is an Emirati house. Hussein Adam Ali founded it in 1974, and it calls itself the first perfume manufacturer in the UAE. The name refers to its mix of Swiss technique and Arabian notes.
Hours and prices change, so check with the shop before you go.
The first perfume maker in the Emirates, since 1974
Swiss Arabian was founded in 1974, and the house calls itself the first perfume manufacturer set up in the United Arab Emirates. It credits its founding to Hussein Adam Ali and his interest in perfume. Despite the name it is an Emirati house, and it describes its work as merging Arabian notes with Swiss technique.
The range runs from the Shaghaf line, named after the Arabic word for passion, to the Heritage collection, whose numbers tell the house's story: 1 for the first perfume maker in the UAE, 7 for the seven Emirates and 74 for 1974. There are also perfume oils in a Private collection.
To smell it in Dubai, go to its store on the first floor of The Dubai Mall. Shaghaf Oud, a 75 ml eau de parfum, lists at AED 160 on its UAE site. Try Oud 07 from the Heritage line first: its number is one of the house's own milestones, and it is a sweet oud with saffron, rose and praline, at AED 250 for 50 ml.
- Shaghaf OudThe line named for passion: golden oud with saffron, rose, praline and vanilla.
- Oud 07A sweet oud from the Heritage line, its 07 standing for the seven Emirates.
- Patchouli 01A modern take on the classic fougere, its 01 for the first perfume maker in the UAE.
- CasablancaInspired by the city of Casablanca: apple and grape over iris, patchouli and amber.
Where to buy
- The Dubai Mall, First Floor
In our city guides
- Swiss Arabian at The Dubai Mall (Boutique, Dubai)