Majd Al Sultan by Asdaaf

The first time I tried it, I thought it was a total success. The second time, it was more difficult. It’s a good fragrance with very oriental touches. If you like resins and incense from around here, this is a very good option.

It’s primarily resinous and spicy. To my nose, it’s the older brother of Ameer al Oudh Intense Oud, and where they most resemble each other is when the latter dries down; by the way, it lasts long on the skin even when it no longer projects (Majd has correct longevity, though perhaps less projection than Ameer). Majd is less woody than its elder brother, perhaps less elegant and less unisex, but definitely more intense, rough, and masculine, although somewhat linear and less sweet. I must say, for its price, it smells and gives more than its real value (Asdaaf is a house affiliated with Lattafa). Are they redundant? Perhaps. Ameer is nocturnal, winter, attractive, and warm, which anyone would like. Majd is daytime for autumn and winter, more serious, perhaps more Arab, harsh, and solid, but it also recalls the original By The Fireplace. I would have both, or I’d stick with one (I currently have Majd), but I know Ameer well too, great price and performance. Well done, Lattafa, for offering two products with very good value for money. Beware of Majd Al Sultan, its beautiful packaging aside; even niche brands can’t offer it, so that’s roughly where things stand. (I strongly disagree with the opinion that it resembles Lattafa Oud for Glory. This Asdaaf is incense and resins, not a woody and oud fragrance. Lattafa is quite westernised, friendly, and pleasant oud, nothing like the other.)

It smells exquisite; it’s as if they bottled the idea of the Middle East in a fragrance. Every single note is noticeable, however, there is something sweet that I don’t quite know what it is. It doesn’t smell vanillic, but I’m not sure if the sweetness comes from tobacco or saffron. It’s a much more refined, elegant version, with smoke and incense, than Badee Al Oud Oud for Glory, yet they smell quite similar. It is much more digestible and easier to wear than Oud for Glory, without ceasing to be striking, long-lasting, and noticeable.