Asim Al Qassim: UAE's First Certified Perfumer

Asim Al Qassim stands as a pioneering figure in Middle Eastern perfumery, holding the distinction of being the United Arab Emirates' first certified perfumer. His journey into the fragrance world began from an unexpected foundation - architecture. This background profoundly influences his aesthetic sensibilities, evident in both his meticulously crafted scents and the stunning bottle designs that house them.

Al Qassim's entry into professional perfumery was serendipitous yet destined. His natural talent was discovered when a professional perfumer recognized his exceptional "nose" after learning that Al Qassim habitually mixed three different fragrances together - a common practice in Gulf culture where layering scents is deeply embedded in tradition. This encounter sparked his formal training and eventual certification, transforming a cultural passion into professional expertise.

The perfumer's artistic vision centers on capturing the essence of Arabian hospitality through fragrance. His brand Anfas, meaning "to breathe" or "to immerse," reflects this philosophy of creating scents that evoke the sensory experience of being welcomed into an Arabian home. Al Qassim draws inspiration from the aromatic traditions of bakhoor, the warmth of freshly brewed coffee, and the rich history embedded in ancient walls, translating these abstract concepts into tangible olfactory experiences.

Al Qassim's fragrance portfolio demonstrates his mastery of blending traditional Middle Eastern elements with contemporary sensibilities. His collaboration with Spanish master perfumer Christian Carbonnel has resulted in internationally acclaimed creations that maintain authentic Arabian character while appealing to global audiences. Notable works include Salam, which captures the moment of first meeting between destined souls, and Ishq, a passionate blend of saffron and strawberry that embodies deep admiration and love.

The perfumer shows particular affinity for vanilla and tonka bean, appreciating their calming and earthy qualities. His compositions often feature these comforting base notes alongside more complex arrangements. Dhai showcases his innovative approach with its unique opening of icy sweetness reminiscent of melting ice candy, while Rahaba welcomes wearers with lush pineapple and creamy warmth, embodying the concept of "welcome to my life."

Al Qassim's technical innovation extends beyond scent composition to conceptual artistry. His collections are designed so that when all fragrances are combined, they create one harmonious scent - a testament to his architectural precision and holistic vision. Each fragrance tells part of a larger story about Arabian hospitality, with bottles featuring palm leaf decorations symbolizing the sun and central flowers representing welcome. His work represents a new generation of Middle Eastern perfumery that honors tradition while embracing global accessibility.