The Emirati fragrance house blends heritage with modern luxury.

While officially launched in 2012, UAE-born fragrance house Lootah Perfumes’ story began far earlier, rooted in a family legacy of perfume and pearl trading established by Saleh Bin Nasser Bin Lootah in 1957. Today, under the leadership of Chairman Sultan Abdulla, the homegrown Emirati label continues to evolve while remaining firmly connected to its roots. We sat down with Abdulla to discuss heritage, modern Emirati luxury and how fragrance can become a living archive of place and identity.

How do you balance honouring your family’s legacy while shaping a modern vision for Lootah Perfumes?

Everything we do at Lootah Perfumes is rooted in the values passed down to us, from the way we select our ingredients to how we approach craftsmanship. At the same time, each generation brings its own perspective. My role is to build on that foundation by presenting our fragrances in a way that feels relevant today. 

How do your early memories of fragrance continue to influence the way you approach it today?

My earliest memories are of my grandmother preparing bukhoor by hand. It was always a very personal process, choosing the oud, blending it with oils, and giving it time to develop properly. That experience shaped how I see fragrance today. It taught me that scent takes time and should unfold gradually rather than feel immediate. For me, what matters most is that a scent stays with you. It should create a memory, something you can come back to. 

How does being a homegrown brand shape your identity and your perspective within the global fragrance industry?

Being a homegrown brand gives us clarity in who we are. Our identity comes from the UAE, from its culture, its rituals, and its relationship with scent. That authenticity is what allows us to stand confidently on a global stage.

As interest in Middle Eastern scents grows, what do you think global audiences are connecting with most?

What people are connecting with is the depth and individuality of our fragrances. Middle Eastern scents are not simple or linear, they evolve over time and create a lasting impression.There is also a growing appreciation for authenticity. People want something distinctive that feels personal rather than familiar, and our scent profiles naturally offer that.

How would you define the concept of a “Dubai scent”?

A Dubai scent is something I’ve experienced throughout my life rather than something I define in theory. I think of the contrast between the old souks in Deira, filled with oud, spices, and incense, and places like Jumeirah or Downtown today, where everything feels lighter and more contemporary.Growing up here, you move between those worlds naturally, and that contrast stays with you. 

How important is storytelling in luxury fragrance today?

For us, storytelling is always connected to the product. Every fragrance begins with a clear idea, whether it is inspired by a material, a place, or a memory. The composition is then built to reflect that idea. It is not only about how the fragrance smells, but how it develops and how it makes the wearer feel over time.

What sets Middle Eastern perfume houses apart from traditional European Maisons today?

Middle Eastern perfumery is more expressive. We focus on layering, longevity, and presence. There is also a strong connection to ritual, whether through oils, bukhoor, or how fragrance is worn daily.European Maisons tend to focus more on structure and subtlety, while our approach is more immersive and personal.

Looking ahead, how do you see Lootah Perfumes evolving?

Our focus is on growing internationally while staying true to our roots. We want to share Emirati perfumery with a wider audience without losing the essence of our craft.