Winning scents: Allegiance shifts to Arabic perfumes

Different Arabian fragrances on display on May 10, 2024.

Photo credit: Wilfred Nyangaresi | Nation Media Group

Kenyans, especially, women are obsessing over Arabic perfumes. In recent years, insatiable demand has only been for delicate florals or musky scents made in France or Italy, but now an increasing number of sellers are stocking Arabic scents from different house makers, from Lattafa to Alhambra.

The perfumes are no longer the preserve of those who visit Arabic shops. From the chaotic alleys of Nairobi’s Eastleigh, they have now found a permanent spot in upscale boutiques in Westlands and the Central Business District. On TikTok, there are tens of videos with reviews and Kenyans in discussions of how to apply Arabic perfumes.

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