Dalia Izem: Perfumer of Emotional Storytelling

Dalia Izem's path to becoming one of contemporary perfumery's most compelling voices began in the aromatic landscapes of North Africa and the Middle East. Growing up surrounded by spice markets, citrus gardens, and the sacred smoke of incense, her earliest memories were shaped by scent. The roasted cumin from bustling souks delivered her first "olfactory shock," while her father's cologne became synonymous with unconditional love. These formative experiences, combined with her mother's ritual of washing laundry with Marseille soap and orange blossom water, created an emotional foundation that would define her artistic approach.

Currently a perfumer at Givaudan, Izem's multicultural background and fluency in five languages have enriched her creative palette. Her formal training at ISIPCA in Versailles provided the technical expertise to complement her natural instincts. This combination of heritage-driven inspiration and rigorous education has positioned her as a bridge between traditional Middle Eastern perfumery and modern sensibilities.

Her recognition as "Perfumer of the Year" at the 2022 Beautyworld Middle East Awards validates her impact on the regional fragrance market. Izem describes this honor as the "ultimate validation" that encourages her continued innovation in the region where her olfactory story began.

Izem's perfumery philosophy centers on translating intimacy into fragrance through fluid contrasts and emotional narratives. Her signature style features sensual yet familiar materials - rose with woody facets, warm cinnamon, and delicately powdered musk. She views perfume as a language that expresses emotions before conscious thought, using each raw material as part of a magical alphabet.

Her notable creations showcase this philosophy beautifully. Epine du Desert demonstrates her mastery of desert rose compositions, blending precious saffron with suede and dry woods to create a warm, enveloping experience. The fragrance captures the sensual beauty of its namesake while maintaining sophisticated balance. Halwa Kiss reveals another facet of her artistry, celebrating Oman's honey cultivation tradition through a gourmand composition featuring cardamom, dates, and roasted nuts.

Beyond her work with Ojar, Izem has created fragrances for Ex Nihilo, including "Iris Porcelana," inspired by the delicate craft of French porcelain. Her collaborations span from niche houses to established brands, demonstrating remarkable versatility. She believes perfume serves both personal and social functions - providing intimate comfort while acting as an "olfactory business card" that can boost confidence and express identity before words are spoken.