The matt-gold finish of the casing and the silver cap add to the charm of the authentic-look Arabian bottle containing 30ml of the entrancing scent, capturing the magic and mystery of the orient. continuation of the ‘1001 Arabian Nights’ theme, the Attar is encased in an exquisitely-crafted bottle resembling a magic lamp. I am wearing Sicily on one arm and 1001 on the other arm and they are strikingly similar in several notes. It is also tuned to my brain with JHG Midnight Oud, - always great reaction from strangers, who straight away recognise it like Middle Eastern-something.

If Al Haramain is more mainstream, Al Rehab is the Avon of Arabian oils, Rasasi and Swiss Arabian are in the league of Chanel and Dior, then Al Quarashi and Ajmal are more exclusive, you could say 'Arabian Niche', or 'Arabian Lutens', if that makes any sense to you.The fragrance is a wise choice for the connoisseur, comprises spicy and smoky notes which evolve into a menagerie of floral elements, completed by a lingering effect of musky and woody notes. Compared to the supposedly read oud I've smelled, this is not nearly as strong, but with those, after an hour or so, it was similar to this or even not as compelling (as it became much weaker). And, unfortunately, Ajmal's much loved and highly Shamamatul Amber-laden Alf Lail O Lail (A Thousand and One Nights) smells like a thousand and one soiled nappies sprinkled lavishly with flowers, woods and spices in an attempt to disguise the, ummm.

So amber is based on tree resin but by adding own ingredients there are countless kinds of yellow, vegetal 'amber' that can be used as a pure oil on their own for amber lovers or as an ingredient in another fragrance. Not just a pleasant or a complex smell but a perfect blend of notes that create a certain feeling and emotion.Base notes of almond, top notes of coconut and plum, vanilla, musk, appealing woody accents, and a hint of enigmatic profundity define this exquisite and fascinating scent.