I have always been drawn to luxuriously unique fragrances, and this passion has fortunately taken me to some very special places around the world. Following my visit to Beautyworld, a leading trade show dedicated to all things beauty and fragrance, in Dubai last year, I have become increasingly captivated by the wave of Emirati perfume houses emerging on the global stage. The Middle East certainly knows how to take sophistication and elegance to the next level, especially when it comes to fragrance, and one brand that embodies this perfectly is Royal Glory.
Founded in 2021, Royal Glory offers a collection of perfumes crafted to reflect a harmonious fusion of Eastern and Western influences. At the heart of each fragrance lies a celebration of Emirati culture, brought to life with the purest high-quality aromatic oils sourced from some of Europe’s most prestigious fragrance houses.
Although still a relatively young brand, Royal Glory already boasts an impressive twenty-nine fragrances, each with its own character yet united by the luxurious DNA that runs throughout the collection. The range includes twelve perfumes in the Exquisite Collection, twelve in the Signature Collection, and five limited editions, all crafted with an impressive thirty per cent concentration of perfume oils to ensure a lasting presence. For those with sensitivities to traditional fragrances, twelve of the perfumes are made using organic ethanol, ensuring there is truly something for everyone in the range.
Being somewhat of a fragrant magpie, what also enchanted me about Royal Glory was its striking presentation. It is here that the luxurious experience truly begins, as you unveil the vessel within its elegant black box. The heavy-based bottle is sturdy yet sophisticated, embellished with gold writing and a plaque, along with a distinctive metallic cap shaped in the initials of the brand that adds a unique quality to the design. The overall aesthetic blends timeless elegance with a contemporary edge, immediately setting the tone for the olfactory journey within.
Whilst exploring the beautifully crafted discovery set, I have picked out a few personal favourites that I feel truly embody what Royal Glory is all about: Oud Zayed, Reine de Saba, Ethereal Bloom, and Unfazed. Each of these fragrances captures a distinct facet of the brand’s vision, whether it is the richness of tradition, the elegance of heritage or the allure of modern luxury.
Oud Zayed – Signature Collection
Oud is synonymous with Arabic perfumery and nothing captures its essence more beautifully than the stunning Oud Zayed. Imagine delicate trails of incense drifting through the air. Its sweet, mystical qualities sparkle with energetic pink pepper and are gently dappled with tart raspberry, bringing a lively and fruity spiciness to the scent that immediately captivates.
As the fragrance unfolds, the fruitiness gives way to a graceful floral heart. A fresh green bouquet of lily of the valley is elegantly complemented by the seductive charm of jasmine and the creamy richness of ylang ylang. The composition gradually deepens, settling over the skin with an increasing sense of warmth and allure. This is where the oud begins to take centre stage, revealing its stunning complexity.
The oud here leaves behind a luxurious animalic sweetness on the skin, reminiscent of some of the rising scent of bakhoor that I have often experienced in this part of the world. Although the fragrance has a darkness about it, touches of cashmere bring a softness and sophistication, like a flowing fabric resting gently against warm skin. It is a truly addictive scent that encourages you to walk taller, evoking a quiet confidence and a sense of understated elegance.
Reine de Saba – Signature Collection
Reine de Saba, meaning Queen of Sheba, is every bit as majestic as its name suggests. From the very first spray, this fragrance makes a statement. I found myself almost gasping at the sheer opulence of its composition. A profusion of rich notes unfolds instantly, enveloping the senses in a warm, luxurious embrace.
Classic Arabian elements such as rose, saffron and oud create a sophisticated aura, like a finely woven cloak of regal scent. There is an underlying darkness here, a depth that draws you in with its mysterious pull. The rose mingles with a sultry plum, its deep purple richness adding a bold, fruity heart to the fragrance. Hints of smoky labdanum enhance the complexity, introducing a mystical element that lingers in the background.
An earthy and decadent patchouli anchors the composition, binding it to the skin like a crown of sensuality and strength. As the fragrance settles, soft trails of musk and ambergris emerge, leaving an unforgettable impression that lingers long after you have passed. This is a fragrance that commands attention. Bold yet elegant, powerful yet graceful. It is truly fit for royalty and possibly one of my favourites from the range.
Ethereal Bloom – Signature Collection
Over the past year, I have seen a surge in fruity fragrances. Admittedly, I have not always been drawn to this particular profile. However, I have been genuinely surprised by how much my taste has evolved. Fruity notes, once overlooked, have increasingly captured my attention with their joy, brightness and versatility.
Ethereal Bloom is a perfect example of how fruit can be reimagined into something far more complex and intriguing. While it opens with a clear fruity character, it quickly takes you on a more mystical and resinous olfactory journey.
The opening is a vibrant medley of freshness and sweetness. Tart raspberry is blended with glistening slices of peach and pineapple, brightened further by uplifting citrus. This fruity cocktail is draped in a golden pour of delicately spiced rum, which adds a warmth and complexity. The spiced edge leads beautifully into the heart, where swirling incense brings an air of mystery and elegance around a sumptuous jammy rose.
As the fragrance develops, it draws you into a rich and luxurious base. Here, a refined oud begins to emerge, purring softly beneath the surface. Accents of leather and patchouli add depth and a touch of darkness, balanced by a voluptuous and sweet vanilla that lingers on the skin. The result is a scent that feels both sensual and refined, leaving behind a trail of undeniable elegance.
Unfazed – Exquisite Collection
Imagine wandering through the park, coffee in hand and a fresh breeze caressing your skin. That is exactly what I sense from the very first spray of Unfazed. It opens with a herbaceous green freshness, brightened by sun-filled juicy mandarin. A warming coffee note weaves its way through, almost as if that gentle breeze has carried the aroma from your cup.
As the fragrance begins to settle, it takes on a more autumnal character, where spicy clove is enveloped by the golden sweetness of honey, the two combining to create a comforting, nutty warmth. With that gentle coffee spice still lingering, a darker and richer composition unfolds as luxurious warm leather merges with earthy patchouli, leaving a lasting trail of depth and sophistication.
This is certainly a fragrance that stands apart from the other three, yet one I particularly enjoyed, as it feels perfect for this time of year in the cool Scottish autumn. Although much more subdued, it is the one to reach for on days when you crave a little comfort, almost wrapping around the skin like a luxurious cashmere scarf. Even in its understated nature, it still manages to command attention, its sweet, spiced warmth gently wafting from the skin for hours on end.
Exploring the world of Royal Glory has been nothing short of captivating. Each fragrance offers a distinct perspective, yet they are all united by a refined signature that celebrates Emirati culture through the art of perfumery. From the incense-laced mystery of Oud Zayed, to the regal richness of Reine de Saba, the sensual allure of Ethereal Bloom, this collection showcases both craftsmanship and creativity.
There is a clear attention to detail in every composition, from the beautifully designed bottles to the way each scent unfolds and lingers on the skin. Whether you are a seasoned collector or simply looking to discover something new and luxurious, Royal Glory offers a sensory journey worth taking.
With a discovery set that allows you to explore the entire range, it is well worth indulging in this olfactory adventure to find the scent that speaks to your own sense of style and presence.
Explore the Royal Glory Website.
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